Hello everyone, my name is Dieman Abdi, I’m 24, and I proudly represent Iraq at Miss Europe Continental 2025. I live in Germany, but my heart carries both my Iraqi roots and my European experiences.
– You live in Germany but you will represent Iraq at Miss Europe Continental, what does it mean to you to bring this dual cultural identity to the stage?
It means a lot to me because it’s proof that identities can coexist beautifully. Growing up between cultures has taught me resilience, openness, and strength. Representing Iraq while living in Europe allows me to show the world that cultural diversity is a gift, and that we can celebrate both where we come from and where we live.
– How have your Iraqi roots shaped the woman you are today? And what have you learned from living in Europe?
My Iraqi roots have given me pride, strength, and hope. Iraq has gone through war and hardship, but its people carry resilience and light. From Europe, I’ve learned freedom, individuality, and the courage to dream beyond limits. Together, these experiences shaped me into a woman who believes in peace, unity, and breaking barriers.
Is there a personal or professional goal you hope to achieve in the coming years?
Yes, I want to change the modeling industry for petite models. For too long, beauty standards have been too narrow, but I believe petite women deserve equal representation on international runways and campaigns. I want to inspire the industry to embrace diversity in height, body shape, and background.
– You’ve had various experiences as a photo model and runway model. What initially attracted you to this world?
– I’ve always loved the way fashion and photography can tell stories without words. Modeling gives me a platform to express myself and connect with people across cultures. What drew me in was the power of representation—being able to stand on a stage or in front of a camera and say: this is me, and I belong here too.
Between photo shoots and runway shows, what has been the most meaningful experience for you so far?
– The most meaningful experience has been walking on the runway as a petite model, knowing that I am breaking stereotypes. Every step felt like a statement—that beauty and confidence are not measured by height.
– In your opinion, what is the key to truly being yourself in front of a camera?
Authenticity. The camera sees beyond poses, it captures your energy, your confidence, and your truth. For me, being myself means embracing my uniqueness, my roots, and my story, and letting that shine through.
Beyond fashion, what are your passions? What makes you feel alive beyond the spotlight?
I’m passionate about spreading messages of hope, peace, and inclusion. I also love connecting with people, learning new cultures, and finding inspiration in art and music. Beyond the spotlight, giving back and inspiring others truly makes me feel alive.
– How do you like to spend your free time? Do you have a hobby that relaxes or inspires you?
In my free time, I enjoy reading, traveling, and exploring new cultures. I also love creative hobbies like playing the Guitar or singing which help me express my thoughts and find calm.
– Where do you see yourself in 10 years? And how do you hope to inspire the next generations?
In 10 years, I see myself as a voice for change in the modeling industry, helping open doors for petite models and others who feel excluded from traditional beauty standards. I also see myself continuing to share my story as an Iraqi woman who stands for light and peace, inspiring future generations to believe that no matter where you come from, you can shine and make a difference.
– Thank you for your time Dieman and for sharing something about yourself with the Miss Europe Continental community. See you soon in Naples
FOLLOW HER ON INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/ayamee_1511/
