Roma Riaz says Cannes appearance is a chance to represent Pakistan beyond stereotypes

KARACHI: Pakistani model Roma Riaz is set to represent the country at the Cannes Film Festival next month, describing the opportunity as both a personal milestone and a broader responsibility to present a more nuanced image of Pakistan on the global stage.

Speaking ahead of her appearance, she said the moment goes beyond individual recognition and reflects a chance to challenge long-standing perceptions about Pakistani women. She emphasised that her presence at the international event is aimed at showcasing strength, diversity and modern identity.

Riaz described her journey as deeply personal, saying she hopes to represent those who often feel overlooked. She added that her goal is to counter the notion that Pakistani women are limited or unheard, highlighting instead their ambition, education and cultural rootedness.

She also stressed that modern identity does not come at the cost of tradition, noting that Pakistani women continue to balance both while shaping their own narratives.

Beyond fashion, Riaz said she is actively engaged in conversations around body image, self-worth and mental health. She has also spoken about the impact of colourism in South Asian societies, calling for greater acceptance and confidence among young women.

Reflecting on her experiences, she said issues such as colour-based bias continue to affect perceptions, adding that representation plays a key role in shifting mindsets and reinforcing inclusive standards of beauty.

As she prepares for her Cannes appearance, Riaz said she intends to highlight Pakistan’s cultural richness, including its fashion, art, language and sense of community, while also presenting a contemporary image of its youth.

She described fashion as an extension of identity, adding that her style blends traditional elements with modern expression. Through her presence at Cannes, she aims to position Pakistan within global cultural conversations while promoting a message of confidence and individuality.