Sonya Zia

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Sonya Zia
Beauty pageant titleholder
Birth name: Sonya Zia
Birth location:
Lahore, Pakistan
Eye color: Brown
Hair color: Black
Title(s): Miss Pakistan World 2006 (Miss Photogenic)

Sonya Zia (Urdu: سونیا ضیا ) grew up in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.

[edit] Background

Sonya Zia grew up in Pakistan and moved to Brampton, Ontario, Canada where she was able to fast-track through highschool and gain her diploma at the young age of 16. Zia is currently studying Law and Security Administration at Sheridan College.

Zia took part in Miss Pakistan World in 2006 where she won Miss Photogentic. Although she lost the crown to Sehr Mahmood, her win gave her the opportunity to represent Pakistan in the World Miss University pageant in Korea.

[edit] Controversy

Often met with controversy, the Pakistani community was divided in Zia's decision to take part in an international pageant. Muslim extremists and fundamentalists in Pakistan often voice discontentment with young Pakistani girls who choose to participate in any talent, beauty or entertainment contest.

Zia sees things differently.

(Segements extracted from interview on Pakistan Christian Post) ref: http://www.pakistanchristianpost.com/interdetails.php?id=63

Question: Explain the support of your family.

Zia: My family has been very encouraging. My mother has been there throughout, and I thank her. Without her (support), this would not have been possible.

Question: How was your experience in the Miss Pakistan World pageant?

Zia: My experience was a very new one. I felt as if I belonged. It was great to have met other girls from Pakistan. I made a lot of new friends.

Although some disagree with the methods of these pageants, Zia provides a reminder that there is a deeper benefit for pageants such as this. The ability to reconnect with her culture, and be a part of something that celebrates where she comes from alongside girls that she can relate to is something that is often difficult for Pakistani girls to find. The opportunity to do so locally and then celebrate their country internationally is something that many of these contestants are thrilled about.


For verification of the above or more information, please see: www.misspakistanworld.com [1]]

[edit] External links