From Refugee Camp to Miss Cosmos: The Khadija Omar Story

From Refugee Camp to Miss Cosmos: The Khadija Omar Story

Author: theoasishaqqislam September 17, 2026 Duration: 47:13
From a refugee camp in Kenya to the international stage of Miss World and Miss Universe, Khadija Omar has spent her life shattering glass ceilings. In this powerful episode of the Oasis, host Haqq Islam sits down with the groundbreaking model and entrepreneur to discuss her incredible journey of resilience, faith, and fashion. Khadija opens up about her early years in a refugee camp and the transition to life in Canada at age nine. She shares how she navigated bullying and identity struggles to become the first hijabi woman to represent Somalia on the world stage. You will learn about her transition from a high school shooting guard to a pageant queen, and the unwavering support from her parents that fueled her courage. The conversation also dives into the business side of pageantry and Khadija's entrepreneurial spirit. She discusses the launch of House of Hooyo, her custom couture brand dedicated to her mother, and her work as an ambassador for humanitarian causes like Smile Train Africa. Khadija also speaks candidly about her personal growth, her decision regarding the hijab, and her upcoming quest for the Miss Cosmo crown in Vietnam. This interview is a masterclass in building confidence and turning your unique story into your greatest strength. Chapters 0:00 Intro and Welcome to the Oasis 2:50 Life in the Kenyan Refugee Camp 6:45 Moving to Canada and Overcoming Adversity 11:15 From Basketball to Beauty Pageants 15:30 The Journey to Miss World Ontario 19:00 Representing Somalia on the International Stage 24:10 Competing in Puerto Rico and Placing Top 12 28:30 Character and Confidence Behind the Scenes 32:00 Making History at Miss Universe Mexico 3 6:15 Entrepreneurship and the Launch of House of Hooyo 40:40 Faith and the Evolution of Personal Identity 44:00 Miss Cosmo Somalia and Humanitarian Goals 47:13 Final Thoughts and How to Connect   Make sure to RATE & REVIEW and subscribe to the podcast channel.

Each week on The Oasis with A.Haqq Islam, host and music industry veteran A. Haqq Islam creates a space for dialogue that feels both necessary and rare. These are conversations that move beyond surface-level headlines, delving into the tangible influence of Islamic faith and Muslim individuals within the most dynamic sectors of modern life. You’ll hear discussions exploring how faith intersects with creative and professional worlds, from the rhythms of Hip Hop and the narratives of film to the strategies of business, the innovation in technology, and the expressions of fashion and sports. This podcast consistently highlights the stories of Muslims who are actively shaping culture, yet whose contributions are often overlooked within mainstream narratives. The tone is intimate and refreshing, offering a perspective that consciously challenges narrow, stereotypical views, whether domestic or international. By focusing on real impact and personal journeys, the series builds a more nuanced understanding. It’s not about preaching, but about presenting a vibrant, multifaceted portrait of engagement and identity. Tuning into this podcast means accessing a forum where spirituality, ambition, and cultural commentary meet, all guided by a host with deep roots in the industry he discusses. The result is a compelling blend of personal insight and broader cultural analysis, making each episode a point of connection and discovery.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The Oasis with A.Haqq Islam
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