Emerging from the dazzling global spotlight of Miss World 2025, Aklima Atika Konika recently returned to a heartfelt welcome in Dhaka, sharing her extraordinary journey in a press session that resonated with pride and inspiration. Organised by Azra Mahmood Talent Camp (AMTC), the event served as a moment of reflection, tracing her path from being crowned Miss World Bangladesh to gracing one of the world’s grandest stages.
Aklima’s account of her Miss World experience was candid, revealing the intensity of preparation, the emotional ebbs and flows, and the unforgettable moments she encountered during the global pageant. “I walked onto that stage not just as a contestant, but as the face of millions of Bangladeshis,” Aklima shared during her speech, her voice imbued with profound sentiment. “Every step, every smile, every word – I carried the pride of my people.” This declaration underscored the immense responsibility she felt, transforming her individual aspirations into a collective national endeavour.
While a crown may not have been among her accolades, Aklima’s journey went beyond the conventional measures of success. Her poise, genuine nature, and powerful stage presence captivated audiences worldwide, earning her widespread admiration and applause from both national and international viewers. Her representation became a powerful symbol of national pride, illustrating that true impact outweighs tangible awards, rooted instead in the strength of spirit, determination, and identity. Her strong dedication to presenting Bangladesh in its authentic light was evident, demonstrating that the essence of a nation can be beautifully conveyed through the grace and fortitude of one individual.
The press event itself was a spirited affair, featuring a lively quick-fire Q&A session that offered insights into Aklima’s experiences, alongside touching tributes from the many individuals who breathed life into her Miss World journey. Among those in attendance were key partners and supporters, notably the team from MBIT (Miss Bangladesh in Training). This pioneering platform, dedicated to preparing young Bangladeshis for global representation, played an instrumental role in Aklima’s grooming and development throughout her reign, shaping her not just as a contestant but as an ambassador. Their structured guidance and expertise were clearly evident in Aklima’s polished presentation and confident demeanor on the world stage.
The collaborative spirit behind Aklima’s success was a recurring theme throughout the session. Mehruz Munir, Creative Director of Zurhem, who meticulously crafted many of Aklima’s signature looks for Miss World, received a well-deserved honour. He was joined in recognition by other talented designers, including Raisa Amin Shaily, Fardin Bayezid, Biswajit, and Trisha, all of whom contributed to her captivating wardrobe, ensuring she always presented a picture of elegance and cultural pride. The behind-the-scenes creative team also received a heartfelt salute: photographers Naymul Islam, cinematographers Ashrafuzzaman Shakhhor and Polash Biswas, and choreographers Asaad Khan, whose artistry brought Aklima’s story to life through visuals and movement.
A particularly special acknowledgment was extended to Efa Tabassum, a model, stylist, and fashion director who served as Aklima’s stylist and image architect throughout her international journey. Efa’s precision in curating and executing each of Aklima’s looks ensured consistency and a strong sense of cultural identity on a global platform, demonstrating that every detail contributed to the larger narrative of Bangladeshi representation. Her role was pivotal in projecting an image that was both contemporary and deeply rooted in heritage.
Aklima herself eloquently articulated the collective effort that underpinned her success. “This was never a solo journey,” she stated, her words resonating with genuine gratitude. “It was built on the shoulders of mentors, creatives, friends, and believers. Today, I stand here not as an individual, but as a reflection of all of you.” This poignant statement captured the essence of her experience – a shared dream, realised through the dedication and support of an entire community. Her homecoming was not merely a return from the international spotlight but a moment to honour this collective dream.
Aklima’s narrative is now poised to become a powerful source of inspiration for aspiring youth across the nation. Her journey proves that with genuine passion, meticulous preparation, and a clear sense of purpose, the global stage is indeed within reach for anyone with a dream. Azra Mahmood, National Director of Miss World Bangladesh, encapsulated this sentiment perfectly, “We are incredibly proud of Aklima. She represents the next generation of Bangladeshi women – strong, compassionate, and globally minded.”
Looking forward, Aklima will channel her energy into her chosen ‘Beauty With A Purpose’ advocacy, an initiative titled Young Mind Matters. This crucial project is dedicated to youth mental health and emotional well-being, reflecting Aklima’s commitment to making a tangible difference in her community. With her voice amplified and her platform strengthened by her Miss World journey, she has pledged to roll out impactful awareness campaigns and projects in the coming months, aiming to support and uplift the next generation. Aklima Atika Konika’s journey, therefore, continues beyond the pageant stage, evolving into a dedicated pursuit of positive change, solidifying her legacy not just as a beauty queen, but as a true advocate for her nation’s future.