Maoosam M Mistry, an Indian fashion designer residing in Oman, will represent Oman at the Haut Monde Mrs India Worldwide beauty pageant to be held in the UAE between June 15-21. In a candid chat with Muscat Daily on the occasion of International Women’s Day (March 8), Maoosam discloses her journey ‘from the media to the spotlight’

Born and raised in a gender-biased community where a boy was considered the pillar of the family, I was determined to write my own story. I chose to be the heroine of my life, not a victim of societal norms. I wanted to challenge these deep-rooted beliefs and prove that an ordinary woman with extraordinary courage can redefine her destiny.

For 33 years, Oman has been more than just the place I live – it has been my second home. A land that has nurtured me, supported me, and given me the platform to grow. Having spent 25 years working with two of the country’s top media companies, I have witnessed the power of storytelling, inspiration, and resilience. Today, as I stand on the brink of a new journey, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Representing Oman at Haut Monde Mrs India Worldwide is not just a proud moment – it is an emotional milestone.

Many people share their stories after they win. But why wait? I want to inspire women now, at this very moment, because success isn’t about a title – it’s about taking that first step toward your dreams. Life is happening now, and the only thing stopping us from living our passion is our own hesitation. I’ve always believed that dreams should not be delayed, and this is my chance to prove it.

The turning point

Like many, I once questioned if I could take this leap. 2020 was a turning point in my life, a moment that made me realise that waiting for the perfect time was meaningless. You either fall or you fly but you will never know unless you jump. I chose to take that leap, and today, I find myself soaring, making each moment count.

For years, my heart was torn between my successful media career and my dream of pursuing fashion and acting. I often asked myself, “How do I start? When is the right time?” But as life would have it, the uncertainty of the world made me reflect and ask myself a simple but profound question: What am I waiting for?

That was the moment I decided to take a leap of faith. I’ve always believed that when you jump, one of two things will happen – you will either fall or you will fly. I took the leap, and to my surprise, I found my wings.

Embracing my passion

Fashion is in my DNA, and acting is my second love. For years, I put my dreams on hold, thinking that responsibilities, time, or circumstances were barriers. But now, I see things differently. Life is a gift, and it is up to us to give it meaning. Every moment counts, and every small step forward is a victory.

Too often, we waste time overthinking, worrying about what’s next, or fearing the unknown. But the truth is, there is never a perfect moment – there is only now. If you have a dream, start today. Take a baby step. No matter how small, movement is progress.

The road ahead

This journey is not about proving anything to the world – it’s about proving to myself that I am capable, strong, and deserving. I wear my crown every day, and now, I am ready to earn one recognised by the world.

As I prepare for the Haut Monde Mrs India Worldwide pageant in June, I embrace this journey with an open heart. Winning is not my only goal – my true purpose is to inspire. To show women that it is never too late to chase what sets their soul on fire.

I am deeply grateful for this opportunity, and even more grateful for the incredible support I have received from the people of Oman. This country has shaped me, strengthened me, and given me the confidence to pursue my passion. Now, it’s my time to give back by using my journey to uplift and motivate others.

To every woman out there wondering, ‘Is it too late?’, my message is simple: It’s never too late. Start now. Take that baby step. Your time is now.

If my story can inspire even one woman to believe in herself, to take that first step toward her dreams, then my purpose is fulfilled.

I did – and I’ve never looked back!

Key queries

How were you selected or nominated for this pageant?

I was selected for the Mrs India 2025 pageant through online auditions, which included three rounds – an introduction round, a question-and-answer round, and a catwalk round. Based on my performance in these rounds, I was chosen to move forward in the competition.

How many contestants participated in the initial rounds?

There were hundreds of participants from around the world, as the competition was not restricted to a specific country. After the auditions, a select number of contestants, including myself, were shortlisted for the next stage.

When is the final round, and what does it entail?

The finals of the Haut Monde Mrs India Worldwide pageant are scheduled to take place in Dubai between June 15 and 21. It will involve a series of events over the course of a week, where contestants will be judged on various aspects of their performance, confidence, and personality.

(Insta: officialmaoosam_mistry)