Erica Robin of Pakistan is participating in the Miss Universe 2023, which is being held in El Salvador. Although the government has not nominated her for the beauty pageant, the 24-year-old model and dancer is being described by many people as the country’s “first-ever” contestant at the mega event.

When she walked the ramp for the national costume show, the presenter described her as “causing a stir being undeniably her. It’s Pakistan.” The costume was all about individuality.

Robin, who wore a pink and black lehenga enriched with embroidery, celebrated the rich, diverse culture, history, and lifestyle through her outfit. It is a known fact that Pakistan is home to multiple ethnicities and 74 languages.

It was a Khaadi-designed dress, aptly named ‘Pehchaan,’ translating to ‘Identity’ in English. The ensemble reminded the people back home of the heer from the folklore heer aur ranjha stories.

The Instagram page of Miss Universe Pakistan quoted Robin on her national costume as saying that ‘unity in diversity by celebrating its own Identity’.

“Erica aims to celebrate the rich and diverse culture, history and lifestyle of Pakistan through her outfit. Pakistan is home to multiple ethnicities based on region, religion, language, and culture. Few of the existing ethnicities include Baloch, Brahui, Sindhi, Punjabi, Muhajir, Saraiki, Memon, Kalashi, Balti, Wakhi, Afghani, Kashmiri, and Hindkowan,” it said.

It added that the costume was a vibrant celebration of Pakistan’s diverse cultures. “The intricate patchwork blends the rural and urban elements, paying homage to the rich crafts and heritage of Pakistan. The handcrafted fan, a major part of Pakistan’s tribal lifestyle, is a symbol of power, and elegance and an ode to its roots.”

Meanwhile, she added that the grand silhouette served as a visual testament to Pakistan’s growth and evolution over time. “It embodies the nation’s journey from its roots in tradition to its strides toward modernity since gaining independence.”

In an official swimwear photo, Robin wore a kaftan. The caption written with the Instagram post said that the collection was a product of a collaboration between Rubin Singer and the Miss Universe Organization.

Robin, 24, from Karachi, was among the five finalists at the Miss Universe Pakistan held in September. Hira Inam, 24, from Lahore, Jessica Wilson, 28, from Rawalpindi, Pakistani-origin American Malika Alvi, 19, from Pennsylvania, and Sabreena Waseem, 26, from Punjab were the other four contenders.

“When I was young, I always watched Miss Universe and I used to believe that a woman from Pakistan could not join the greatest Olympics of its kind. But I also know in my heart that nothing is impossible and now having the title of Miss Universe Pakistan and being able to use my patform for good change and transformation – I strongly believe that Dreams Do Come True. Keep on dreaming and dreaming and keep on working for your dreams,” she said in her post on October 27.