Miss Egypt Pageant: Leylah Walid’s Journey from Arkansas
Little Rock’s very own Leylah Walid, 26, is making waves in Cairo as she competes in the prestigious Miss Egypt pageant. The competition culminates with its final events and judging this Saturday, and Walid is not just participating; she is leading the People’s Choice voting among over 20 contestants. Her journey reflects the fusion of her American upbringing and Egyptian heritage.
A Promising Start in the Competition
Walid recently achieved notable accolades in the preliminary rounds. She secured a spot in the Top 10 for the Miss Elegant Eco-Dress contest, showcasing a unique outfit made from electrical wire, jute rope, and LED lights, emphasizing recycled materials. Additionally, she demonstrated her vocal talent by placing as the third runner-up in the talent competition with her rendition of John Legend’s “All of Me.” The pageant, organized by the Miss Egypt Bent Masr Organization, aims to celebrate the beauty and cultural richness of Egyptian women.
Walid describes her experience as incredibly rewarding. “The atmosphere has been amazing,” she shared during a recent phone interview. “I’ve met some incredible women, and the organization has provided tremendous support. Dr. Amaal Rezk, our chairwoman, and current Miss Egypt, Sama Kamel, have been incredibly guiding throughout this journey.”
A Dual Cultural Identity
With dual citizenship in the U.S. and Egypt, Walid’s background adds a unique dimension to her participation. After graduating with honors from Hendrix College in 2021, she now pursues a master’s degree in public health at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, balancing her studies with pageant commitments. Her interest in pageants ignited when a friend participated in one in Texas, prompting her to explore Miss Egypt as a platform to embrace her cultural heritage.
“I realized that the Miss Egypt competition resonated deeply with my identity,” Walid expressed. “Growing up in Arkansas while being proud of my Egyptian roots gives me a unique perspective. This pageant feels like an opportunity to represent and share the experiences of someone straddling two cultures.”
Using the Platform for Good
An integral aspect of the Miss Egypt pageant is its commitment to charity. Walid and her fellow contestants have recently visited a children’s hospital in Cairo, which specializes in treating young cancer patients and relies on donations for operations. This community engagement resonates with Walid, as she dreams of utilizing her potential Miss Egypt title to raise awareness about critical issues.
“I am particularly passionate about advocating for the disabled community in Egypt,” Walid remarked. “Accessibility is an ongoing challenge, and I hope to work towards improving it, among other causes. To me, the Miss Egypt title symbolizes an opportunity to give back and create a positive impact.”
As the pageant unfolds, all eyes will be on Leylah Walid, not only for her beauty and talent but also for her commitment to meaningful change. Whether she takes home the crown or not, her journey embodies resilience and the embodiment of cultural identity—a testament to the heart of the Miss Egypt philosophy.