Shereen Ahmed, a Filipino-Bahraini beauty queen based in Dubai, has been crowned Miss Universe Bahrain 2024. The victory marks a significant moment for Shereen, who will represent Bahrain in the upcoming Miss Universe competition in Mexico this November. Her win adds to the global pageant’s celebration of diversity, as she becomes one of four contestants of Filipino heritage to compete on the world stage this year.
Shereen’s path to the crown was not without challenges. In 2022, she competed in the Miss Universe Bahrain pageant and placed 2nd runner-up. Reflecting on that experience in a recent Instagram post, Shereen shared, “At the time, I was just taking a risk, trying to rid myself of fear. Outwardly, it may have seemed effortless, but deep down, I still doubted my potential to be a role model.”
She admitted that despite the public success, she struggled with self-doubt. “Even after sharing my story and impacting others, I wasn’t convinced I could truly be her,” she added. During this period, she continued her day job as a TV presenter but felt “comfortable yet directionless,” coasting through routines without confronting the deeper changes she knew she needed to make.
A turning point came when Shereen discovered the journey of Miss Universe Philippines 2023, Michelle Dee, whose perseverance and grace reignited Shereen’s passion for pageantry. “Watching her journey inspired me and gave me hope during difficult times,” she shared.
When she heard about the removal of the age limit for Miss Universe Bahrain, Shereen felt everything was aligning. “It was a moment of clarity—a chance to pursue my true self. This journey has been about breaking free from limiting beliefs, stepping out of my comfort zone, and letting my inner strength shine through,” she reflected.
Shereen’s story is not only one of resilience but also of overcoming personal struggles, including financial stress and job loss. “It’s been a challenging path—financial stress, job loss, and countless setbacks—but every struggle led me to this moment,” she shared. Now, as Miss Universe Bahrain, Shereen is dedicated to advocating for single mothers, mental health, and the beauty of her region.
Her victory is particularly noteworthy as it represents both the Bahraini and Filipino communities. Born to a Filipino mother and a Bahraini father, Shereen’s journey began in Dubai in 2015, where she pursued a degree in Journalism and Media while working as a freelance model. Inspired by writers like Hemingway and Bukowski, she explored her love for words through journaling and poetry, which eventually led to a career in content creation on Instagram.
Shereen’s modeling career, influenced by her mother, who was also a model in Bahrain, helped her overcome shyness and gain recognition in Dubai’s fashion and beauty industries. Now, as a content creator and a beauty queen, Shereen proudly embraces her mixed heritage. “I’m honored to represent Bahrain and show the Universe the very essence of our people,” she declared.
