This past summer, Fabiola Al-Ibrahim, a 22-year-old of Syrian origin, was crowned as this year’s Miss Arab USA. After moving to Syria with her mother in 2003, Al-Ibrahim witnessed the struggle of the less fortunate and knew she wanted to help them. Later, she decided to move to the United States to earn a medical degree so that she could help improve the medical advancements in Syria.

Now residing in West Virginia, the pageant winner holds a masters degree in health administration. She is studying pre-med and works as a research scientist on a bioengineering project.

The Annual Miss Arab Pageant, produced by the Arab American Festival Organization, hopes to advance the cause for young ladies of Arab descent, according to the organization’s website. The pageant is a charity event for the community, uniting Arabs and their friends in celebrating the Arab cultural heritage.

“This is a non-political platform for young ladies to achieve personal growth and development,” said organizers. “To take pride in their heritage, discover their inner beauty in achieving their humanitarian goals in life and laying a strong foundation as leaders of the future.”

In phone interview with The Arab American News, Al-Ibrahim talked about pursuing and winning the pageant, her future goals and women in the media. 

The Arab American News (TAAN): What made you want to pursue the title?

Fabiola Al-Ibrahim (FA): I met the requirements to represent Arab women, which was based on personality, education and dedication for your community. So, I felt that I could pursue the title because I met the requirements.

TAAN: How did you feel when you won the title?

FA: Of course, it’s an honor to be Miss Arab USA. It’s also a responsibility. This title has definitely given me bigger opportunities when it comes down to humanitarian acts. It’s exciting.

TAAN: How does it feel being in the spotlight, any pressure?

FA: I haven’t felt pressured yet; and honestly, I’ve always enjoyed meeting people and helping them out in any way possible. I also look forward  to engage in activities within the organization so I can make more connections.

TAAN: What are your goals in the next five years and how do you plan to use your platform and influence to help your community?

FA: Aside from earning a medical degree and continuing to do research, I also plan to go back to Syria and open a children’s charity hospital. As a Syrian, I love the Syrian people and I would like to do something to give back. And this upcoming year, I’ll be working with UNICEF and other international organizations to work with refugees.

TAAN: What kind of aid would you be providing the refugees?

FA: Besides providing comfort, food, clothing and refugee camps, I would also like to provide them with art supplies, because I find art very therapeutic. It’s a great way for them to express their feelings. I just wanna provide something different and I feel that art supplies would be a memorable donation.

TAAN: What are your thoughts on the objectification of women in the media?

FA: We have come along way since the 40’s to the 60’s. Women were treated back then as objects in advertisements and movies, but I feel like we’ve been improving in equality and we’ve definitely come a long way. But when it comes down to high circulation magazines, I think they need to focus on the woman as a person, not only a body. The media is setting unachievable standards, especially for young girls. We’re still improving, but with the strong role models that we have today, such as Oprah Winfrey, I definitely see a change.

TAAN: How do you think Arab women are perceived in the Western world and why?

FA: The Arab world is broad, consisting of multiple cultures, religions and traditions. I feel that some people in Western society haven’t had a chance to interact with Arab women and they perceive them based on what the media shows — that they’re conservative and restricted by men. And that’s not true, because Arab women are treated equally and we have our freedom. We are intelligent, educated, and driven. So, just get to know an Arab woman and give her a chance!