A young Filipina raised in Dubai has brought home the Ms. United Nation International 2025 crown after competing in Shenzhen, China, marking a proud moment for the Filipino community in the United Arab Emirates.
Kairi Eamilao Cabais represented Filipino residents in the UAE at the pageant, where she emerged with the title following days of activities and interaction with delegates from several countries. Organizers Megastar International Events and Majan Events praised her achievement and emphasized her growing list of creative pursuits, which include work in technology and the arts.
Her academic journey continues in the UAE, where she is taking up Creative Computing at Bath Spa University in Ras Al Khaimah. Cabais described herself as “a content creator, model, painter, programmer, singer & dancer and full-time student at Bath Spa University pursuing a degree in Creative Computing.” She added that she is “a strong advocate for fostering boundless creativity in children,” noting that her mission includes encouraging young people to explore their abilities beyond screens.
Cabais grew up in a multicultural environment in the emirates, something she said shaped her worldview. “I was fortunate to be surrounded by a rich mosaic of cultures, languages, and traditions,” she shared with TGFM, adding that her upbringing helped her appreciate how global friendships and cultural understanding contribute to progress.
Her path to the international crown began locally. She revealed that she had never joined a pageant before stepping onto an international stage. “I had never stepped onto a pageant stage before- so I won my first ever competition on an international stage on top of that!” she said.
According to Cabais, her first exposure to the pageant community started when she supported her younger sister at a local competition organized by Megastar Events. She recalled being encouraged by organizers who asked, “Are you ready for China?” and shared that she relied on her family’s advice before agreeing to take the opportunity. “Ready is only a feeling- delaying your dream because you don’t feel ‘ready’ is a myth,” she said.
In preparation for Shenzhen, Cabais trained under Filipino and UAE-based mentors, including a Pasarela Coach she described as “the UAE’s most trusted.” She also cited the support of her handlers and her exposure to modeling events in Dubai. Mentally, she said she reminded herself that the results would not change her long-term plans, adding that her supporters and advocacy guided her focus throughout the competition.
Among her favorite experiences while abroad were her interactions with other delegates. Cabais described the five-day event as filled with moments that highlighted connection over rivalry. “My most memorable moments… will definitely be the unscripted, genuine moments interacting with my new international friends,” she said, explaining that conversations during bus rides and rehearsals allowed her to bond with fellow contestants from various countries.
Her motivation after the win has turned toward service and mentorship. “I have my heart set for this entire year to be dedicated to my advocacy and service,” she said, explaining plans to volunteer in activities that promote performing arts for children and encourage others to discover their capabilities through guidance and coaching.
She also had a message for younger Filipinas in the UAE who aspire to follow a similar path. “My message to the young Filipinas across the UAE who hold a vision of gracing an international stage, know that your dream is not just valid—it is a powerful force just waiting to be realized,” she said, noting the strength young women hold by being part of both Filipino and UAE cultures.
