Bangladesh's Konika shines at Miss World 2025

She didn't arrive with a well-rehearsed pageant persona, or a wardrobe curated months in advance. In fact, Aklima Atika Konika's journey to the Miss World 2025 stage began in the kind of last-minute scramble most people wouldn't associate with one of the world's most prestigious beauty platforms. But maybe that's what makes her story worth listening to — not the polish, but the process.

In this candid and wide-ranging conversation with Star Lifestyle, Aklima Atika Konika talks about resilience, responsibility, and what it really means to show up when the world is watching.

Congratulations! How are you feeling after representing Bangladesh on a global stage like Miss World?

Honestly, I'm still soaking it in. I had just a week to prepare, so everything felt rushed. But during the opening ceremony, when I held the Bangladesh flag and saw "Bangladesh" under my name — that's when it really hit me. I wasn't just Konika anymore; I was representing an entire nation.

Many see the crown, but few see the conviction behind it. What values have you held onto most strongly throughout your pageant journey?

Authenticity. I've always stayed true to myself — a proud Bengali girl who feels confident in a saree. Even on a global stage, Bangladesh lives in my heart.

This journey wouldn't have been possible without my support system: my national director, Azra Mahmood, from Azra Mahmood Talent Camp (AMTC), Dr Nilufar Islam from MBIT, and Efa Tabassum, Miss International Bangladesh 2024, who even shared her clothes with me. The outpouring of love from people online kept me going.

Preparing for an international pageant must be overwhelming. What has been the most challenging and most rewarding part of the process?

It was chaotic! We got confirmation just days before the event, so I was arranging outfits and sponsors last minute. But despite the stress, we made it.

I'm so grateful to Mehruz Munir of Zurhem for designing my finale and Top Model gowns. Fardin Bayejid, Bishwajit, and Trisha from Fashion Lab also supported me when others didn't. That kind of kindness is unforgettable.

What was the most surprising thing you learned about yourself during the Miss World experience?

That I can still surprise myself. I pushed my limits without complaining and gave my all, even with limited time. That resilience is something I'm proud of.

Miss World emphasises "Beauty With a Purpose." What has been the social cause closest to your heart, and how do you plan to continue working on it beyond the pageant?

Mental health, especially for children. My initiative, "Young Minds Matter," focuses on creating awareness, which I believe is the first step in healing. Too often, neurodivergent children are misunderstood, and I've seen first-hand how those early labels damage self-esteem. My goal is to make sure they don't grow up blaming themselves.

In the past, we've seen many titleholders make inspiring promises, but often, those fade once the spotlight dims. What makes your commitment different?

I can't make grand promises because life changes us constantly. But right now, I genuinely want to continue this work. Even if I can't scale it immediately, I'll find a way to contribute. That's the promise I'm holding onto for myself.

Now that you've reached this stage, do you plan to continue in modelling, or do you see a different path ahead?

I've stopped planning since COVID-19! I once wanted to be a software engineer, never imagined myself in the media. But now, I've grown to love modelling. So yes, I'd like to explore it — but I'll also stay open to whatever life throws at me. I'm enjoying the surprises.

What's the most honest piece of advice you'd give to someone dreaming of Miss World?

First, ask yourself why you want it. Be clear and honest. Then start building the personality that reflects a Miss World winner — don't wait for the crown. Choose a cause that truly matters to you, and above all, be authentic. Miss World values realness. Be yourself, fully and unapologetically.

I'm still learning and taking notes so I can help whoever comes next. Even if I don't win, I want to pass it forward.

Photo: Courtesy