From Abu Dhabi to India’s National Stage: A Young Woman’s Journey of Growth

Story Background

At just 19 years old, Kaziah Liz Mejo was crowned Miss Universe India 2026 at the national finale held in Jaipur on 23 August 2026.

Originally from Kerala, India, Kaziah spent much of her childhood and school years in Abu Dhabi, a city she has repeatedly described as an important part of her journey.

Her path has now taken her from Abu Dhabi to the national stage in India — and next, to an even broader international platform.

Following her national win, she is set to represent India at the 75th Miss Universe competition.

In an interview with Gulf News, Kaziah spoke about the promise she had made to Abu Dhabi — the city where she grew up:

“I promised Abu Dhabi I’d return with the crown.”

This time, she did.

Reflections

But perhaps what makes her story particularly interesting is not simply the crown itself.

It is also the journey of a young person growing up between cultures, building confidence, exploring different interests, and eventually stepping onto a much larger stage.

Kaziah is currently studying law and has also pursued interests in modelling, dance, and other creative fields.

Her story is therefore not only about reaching a destination, but also about developing the confidence to explore different possibilities at a young age.

At first glance, this may appear to be a story about a beauty pageant.

From another perspective, however, it also offers a small window into the experience of a generation growing up in increasingly multicultural and international cities.

Abu Dhabi is home to people from many different nationalities, languages, and cultural backgrounds.

For young people growing up in such an environment, everyday life naturally involves exposure to different perspectives, communities, and ways of thinking.

Kaziah’s story offers one positive example of how a multicultural upbringing can accompany the development of confidence and an international outlook.

CA Perspective

When people talk about the UAE, the conversation often begins with business opportunities, investment, taxation, infrastructure, and global connectivity.

These are also among the key considerations frequently associated with the UAE’s appeal to international companies, entrepreneurs, and professionals.

But for individuals and families who choose to build a longer-term life here, the conversation can gradually extend beyond business.

Questions around education, community, cultural diversity, and the environment in which the next generation grows up may become equally meaningful.

Of course, Kaziah’s personal story does not provide a complete picture of life in the UAE, nor can one individual experience represent an entire city.

But it does offer a warm and human perspective on what it can mean to grow up in a place where different cultures meet every day.

For international families — including those considering working, establishing businesses, or building a longer-term presence in the UAE — these softer aspects of city life can also be worth understanding alongside economic opportunities.

Sometimes, understanding a place begins not with statistics, policy, or economic indicators, but with the stories of the people who grow up there.

Congratulations to Kaziah Liz Mejo, and best wishes for the next stage of her journey.