A cabbie's daughter is to become the first hijab-wearing Muslim to compete in Miss England.
Maria Mahmood, 20, who is through to the semis of the beauty pageant, is odds-on to reach the final. If she wins, she will compete in Miss World.
Maria, from Birmingham, says she is supported by her friends, family and the wider Muslim community but expects some backlash from “old-timers”.
While a Muslim has previously been crowned Miss England, Maria is the first hijab-wearer to take part. The psychology student bagged a place in the semi-final after finishing runner-up in last week’s Miss Birmingham – her first-ever pageant.
Maria, who wants to be a social worker, will take part in Miss England’s swimwear round, wearing a burkini. She said her dad, a black cab driver, and mum, who works part-time in a school, have been supportive.
“When I came runner-up, they were delighted for me. I’ve got three brothers and they’ve also been so good. Most people have been supportive.
“There have been a few negative comments and I’m fully expecting some criticism from old-timers and conservatives.
"But what I’m doing is empowering for Muslim women. I’m anticipating most people will back me.
She added: “Obviously, I’m not going to parade on stage in a bikini as that is going against my religion and beliefs. I’ll wear a burkini.”
Miss England director Angie Beasley said: “We’re delighted Maria will be wearing a hijab. It’s the first time that we’ve had a hijab-wearer taking part.”
The Miss England semi-final will be held in Newark, Notts, in July.
Hammasa Kohistani was the first Muslim crowned Miss England, aged 18 in 2005.
