Voloder was only a baby when her family had to flee their home country of Bosnia (from a refugee camp) to migrate to Australia more than two decades ago. Not only beautiful, but also extremely intelligent, Voloder studied psychology and currently works as a criminal profiler.
Moment Esma Voloder was crowned Miss World Australia, 2017
According to Arab News, Voloder wants to use her new title by trying to change people’s perceptions of what Islam is all about. “The Islam that I know, that is in the Qur’an, I don’t associate that with any acts that are occurring around the world. People tend to blame religion for the atrocities that are happening, but if we do that we take responsibility away from the individuals”, Voloder made in a statement after the crowning ceremony.
“A lot of things have been misconstrued about Islam. I feel that a category has been created that is not really what the Qur’an actually promotes. I believe Islam is about peace, unity, prosperity and inclusion,” she said.
Unfortunately, she has been heavily criticised for winning the competition because she is a practicing Muslim. The ever graceful and diplomatic young woman hit back by telling The Daily Telegraph: ‘I forgive them… I feel it comes from a lack of understanding… life is too short for negativity… I am hoping to break down the barriers by just being me’.
Voloder will be traveling to China in November to compete in Miss World. We wish her all the best of luck!
