INTERVIEW - Living with vitiligo made me stronger person: Logina Salah

Noha Eid, Wednesday 23 Oct 2024

Ahram Online (AO) spoke with Logina Salah after she claimed the title of Miss Universe Egypt.

Logina Salah

 

On 5 October, Egyptian supermodel Logina Salah announced that she won the title of Miss Universe Egypt, qualifying her to represent Egypt in the 73rd edition of the Miss Universe competition.

Miss Universe is set to take place on 16 November 2024 in Mexico.

Salah will compete for the title alongside 130 contestants from different countries.

The Miss Universe competition has been running since 1952 and is considered one of the oldest and most prestigious global beauty pageants.

This edition returns to Mexico after 17 years, as the last hosting there was in 2007.

Salah was born in 1990 in Alexandria and studied accounting.

She worked as a makeup artist after pursuing that field.

Salah also works as a social media content creator and a supermodel, with nearly two million Instagram followers.

AO took time to talk with her about her claiming the title.

 

 

Ahram Online: How did you apply to join the Miss Universe Egypt competition?

Logina Salah: When I knew that some of the participation requirements had been cancelled, I was excited to apply.

The competition's previous restrictions were challenging, such as contestants needing to be unmarried and under 30. Once I found out those requirements were cancelled, I was encouraged to participate.

Initially, I was worried about the many preparations needed, like outfits, walking practice, and etiquette training. It was very demanding and not as easy as many think.

AO: These competitions come under much scrutiny because of the image portrayed about women. What is your view?

LS: The Miss Universe competition places great importance on a person with a message, rather than just focusing on a girl’s beauty or physique.

I participated in the Miss Universe pageant because it is a genuine competition; it highlights the message and efforts to achieve it through social work or charity.

It also values the contestants' thoughts on various issues and how they can influence young women. I believe this aligns well with my personality.

AO: What are your views on representing Egypt in the competition?

LS: I am enormously proud to represent my country Egypt in the Miss Universe competition.

I always aspire for Egypt’s name to be recognized globally, especially since this contest is one of the largest and most famous global beauty competitions. Besides this pride, I see it as a significant responsibility.

 

 

AO: How has your experience with vitiligo affected your mindset?

LS: Living with this condition has made me a much stronger person. I am always thankful for the days that pass without difficulties, but I have also learned how to confront the rises and challenges I have faced.

I understand that every hardship will pass and is not permanent and that lessons learned are what remain.

My perspective has changed; what I went through in my childhood has become a blessing that made me stronger and less affected by others’ opinions. This condition has improved my life.

AO: What are your plans after winning the title of Miss Universe Egypt?

LS: I am studying a project that I started about two years ago. I am also continuing my social and charitable work as part of my identity.

I have been involved in these activities before joining the competition and will continue to develop them.

 

 

 

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