At 42, Dubai-based mom Tasneem Raza is rewriting beauty norms by competing in Miss Universe India 2025. Leaving behind a corporate career, she embraces a bold new chapter, proving it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. Her inspiring journey challenges age stereotypes and empowers women across generations.
In a story that challenges age-old stereotypes and inspires women everywhere, Dubai-based mother and former corporate professional Tasneem Raza is making headlines as she prepares to compete in the Miss Universe India 2025 pageant — at the age of 42.
While most beauty pageant contestants are in their twenties, Tasneem is unapologetically rewriting the rules. With two teenage children and a long career in the corporate sector behind her, she is stepping into a space traditionally reserved for younger women. And she’s doing it with grace, grit, and the kind of confidence that comes from knowing exactly who you are.
“I’m not trying to fit in — I’m here to stand out and prove that beauty, courage, and ambition aren’t defined by age,” says Tasneem.
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Tasneem, who has lived in Dubai for several years, left behind a successful two-decade-long corporate career to follow her passions. She ventured into the world of fashion and modeling at 40 — and now, just two years later, she’s one of the 53 official contestants selected for this year’s Miss Universe India competition.
Her journey began with auditions in Delhi and will continue across cities like Indore and Mumbai in the coming weeks. The pageant is more than just glamour; it’s a demanding month-long competition filled with intense training, long hours, public appearances, and physical challenges.
“I’ve had to prepare myself mentally, physically, and emotionally for this experience. It’s not just about walking a ramp — it’s about showing up with strength and authenticity every single day.”
Being the oldest contestant in the competition hasn’t been easy. Tasneem openly admits to moments of self-doubt, wondering whether she truly belongs in a space dominated by youth and traditional beauty standards. But she’s using that vulnerability as a source of power.
“Every time I question myself, I remember why I started. I’m here to represent every woman who’s been told her time is up. I’m here to say — our time is now.”
Unlike the typical beauty pageant prep, Tasneem has focused on holistic development — from fitness and posture to emotional clarity, public speaking, and mindfulness. Her preparation also includes meditation, strength training, and mentorship in personality development.
She isn’t just working on the perfect runway walk — she’s working on being fully present, aware, and emotionally intelligent in the spotlight.
Tasneem draws strength from her family. Her teenage children have written her encouraging letters, and she wears a necklace gifted by her son during the competition. Her parents' prayers and husband’s support keep her grounded and focused.
“These little reminders of love and support are what keep me going during the hard days. I’m carrying their hopes with me on this journey.”
For Tasneem, participating in Miss Universe India is already a victory.
“The crown would be an honor, but the real win is knowing I had the courage to begin again — to do something just for myself, something bold, something beautiful.”
Her story is one of reinvention, resilience, and rediscovery. In an age where society often tries to define a woman’s worth by her youth, Tasneem is a powerful reminder that dreams don’t have an expiration date.
Tasneem’s bold leap is inspiring a wider conversation across social media and women's circles — about ageism, self-worth, and the right to chase personal growth at any stage of life. Many women across the UAE and India are celebrating her courage as a symbol of modern womanhood.
Dubai, a city known for embracing bold visions and new beginnings, has been the perfect backdrop for her evolution.
“Dubai gave me the confidence to reinvent myself. It gave me the space to be a little rebellious — to dream bigger than ever before.”
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