Aysha Khan, a Muslim Miss England contestant, has made it through to the final stage of the contest and many say she has successfully taken on stereotypes. For instance, she chose to participate in the optional swimsuit competition by posing in a wetsuit (pictured). As she explains, “I decided to enter the round this year, however I wanted to push forward the message that swimwear doesn’t necessarily mean a bikini. Empowerment can be felt in many different ways and can be promoted in many different ways.”
She added: “I think other girls can see this and realize that they can do the same. Particularly because of my background, being Muslim too, I wanted to stay true to myself.”
Ms. Khan is currently in the finals, having attained 150 votes while the contestant in the lead has 2,469 votes. The contest is judged in part by public voting. The winner will be crowned on August 1st.
