Canadian-born Bangladeshi entrepreneur Somaya Harun has been crowned Miss Bangladesh 2025, taking up the role of the nation’s new beauty ambassador as the foundation’s chairperson Meghna Alam faces legal controversy over alleged links with a Saudi diplomat.

Somaya, one of the country’s youngest business leaders, will represent Bangladesh at Miss Earth 2025, focusing on environmental education, youth leadership, and sustainability.

The crown was presented by Ms. Meghna Alam, Chairperson of the Miss Bangladesh Foundation, who said the pageant aims to build “role models, not just models.”

Our queens represent service, sustainability, and global friendship,” Meghna said, adding that Somaya’s selection reflects “beauty with responsibility.

Under her leadership, three Bangladeshi contestants have earned international recognition: Ferdousi Tanvir Ichha highlighted solidarity with Palestine at Miss Earth Philippines 2024; Jesrin Hossain Toma reached the top six at Miss Glam Universe India, advocating women’s leadership; and Humayra Shahjahan showcased Bangladesh’s Jamdani heritage in Thailand.

Together, they helped redefine the nation’s beauty pageantry as a platform for cultural pride and social advocacy.

Legal Storm Around Meghna Alam

The event, however, comes amid ongoing controversy over Meghna Alam’s detention earlier this year under the Special Powers Act, 1974, following allegations of fraud, extortion, and “honey-trapping” diplomats — including Saudi Ambassador Essa Yousef Essa Al Duhailan.

Investigators accused Meghna and her associate Dewan Samir of attempting to extort US$5 million from the diplomat. Meghna denied the charges, telling a Dhaka court that her relationship with the envoy was personal and consensual.

Her arrest sparked legal and human rights concern after she was allegedly picked up from her Bashundhara residence without prior notice. The High Court has since questioned the legality of her detention and sought clarification from authorities.

Despite the case, Meghna continues to lead the Miss Bangladesh Foundation, maintaining that the organization’s mission remains focused on empowerment, culture, and sustainability.

New Hope in a Clouded Chapter

For many observers, Somaya Harun’s crowning offers the foundation a chance to restore credibility and steer attention back to positive advocacy.

Somaya said she plans to “promote environmental awareness and inspire youth to lead change.”

Her success — and the Miss Bangladesh Foundation’s next steps — will determine whether the organization can overcome its leadership scandal and continue its rise on the global stage.