Miss Arab World to defend women's rights

Manama: Miss Arab World 2007 Wafa Janahi pledged to be involved in social activities and defend the rights of Bahraini women, upon her arrival to Bahrain International Airport yesterday.

Wearing a traditional red garment with golden embroidery and her crown and carrying the Bahraini flag around her neck, Wafa reached Bahrain with hopes of representing Bahraini girls not only in the Arab region, but worldwide.

"I don't have clear plans at the moment as the winning came as a surprise to me, but I'm sure that I will participate in every festival and conference in Bahrain and take on an important role in its development," Wafa told the press yesterday.

Unique approach

Wafa, Bahrain's first ever contestant in the event, was crowned by Miss Arab World 2006 Claudia Hanna from Iraq.

"I participated in the contest for its unique approach as it wasn't focusing on the physical beauty, but the mind and intelligence of Arab girls," said the 25-year-old law student.

Wafa beat 19 other candidates to win the title and become the first Bahraini to participate and win in the event. Candidates to the contest held in Egypt came from 16 Arab countries, including Egypt, Lebanon, Sudan, Iraq, Libya and Palestine. Wafa was given a warm welcome from her family, friends, press and fans.

Suad Hamada is a journalist based in Manama