Debonaire style maverick Ahmad Memon is poised to make history as Pakistan’s first-ever contestant at the Mr. International Pageant 2024, set to take place this December in Bangkok, Thailand. This marks a significant milestone for a country where such events often face conservatism.
The prestigious pageant, now in its sixteenth edition, will feature participants from across the globe, including England, Lebanon, Indonesia, India, and Nigeria.
Interestingly, many in Pakistan are unaware of male beauty pageants, and Memon was no exception. In a candid interview, he recounted how his friend, Erica Robin—Pakistan’s first Miss Universe—introduced him to the concept. “When Erica mentioned it, I couldn’t believe there was a pageant for men too! She encouraged me to apply,” Memon recalled.
“Initially, I didn’t take her seriously, but when I researched it, I realized representatives from nearly every country were participating—except Pakistan. So, I thought, why not raise our green flag on an international stage?” After several meetings, he received the life-changing call: he was selected to represent Pakistan.
Memon was thrilled to be chosen, especially since he was one of the last to be interviewed in Karachi. He is now preparing outfits for the various rounds of the competition. While women in beauty pageants typically need to carefully consider their wardrobe choices, Memon has his own approach to style.
“I want to wear outfits that reflect my country’s culture and heritage. I’m focusing on traditional and beautiful attire,” he explained.
For the national costume round, he is still finalizing his design. However, he has something special in mind for the swimwear round that showcases Pakistan’s rich heritage. “I plan to wear a gown for the swimwear round as well, reflecting the heritage of my country. I can’t reveal too much right now—it’s a surprise for everyone in December!” he teased.
In the recent Miss Universe competition, Erica Robin made headlines by choosing to wear a burkini in the swimsuit round, earning international acclaim. However, she faced criticism in Pakistan for not seeking state approval before representing the country on the global stage.
Memon’s journey coincides with the recent success of star javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem at the Olympic Games, showcasing a positive image of Pakistan. Memon believes that participating in events like this can help dispel negative perceptions about the country. “I want to raise our flag high at Mr. International and show the world what we’re capable of,” he stated.
He views this competition as a new opportunity for young Pakistanis. “There are so many talented and beautiful people in Pakistan who don’t realize they can be recognized globally for their skills and beauty. I hope my journey inspires others to participate in these competitions as well.”
Memon also addressed the scrutiny regarding fashion, noting that both men and women face criticism, but he believes women often endure more due to societal expectations. Nonetheless, he emphasized the importance of focusing on the positive and not allowing criticism to deter one’s passion.
Hailing from a Karachi-based Sindhi family, Memon clarified a common misconception about his background. “Many assume I belong to the Memon community because of my surname, but my mother is from a Pashtun-Kashmiri background, and my family has been settled in Karachi since before partition,” he explained.
In 2023, Pakistan made its debut in the Miss Universe pageant with Erica Robin, while model Noor Xarmina is set to represent the country in the upcoming Miss Universe competition in Mexico this November. Now, with Memon stepping onto the stage at the Mr. International pageant in December, there is a sense of anticipation and optimism for what lies ahead.
