Kathmandu, Aug. 15 -- Unlike before, the Miss Nepal pageant is no longer seen just as a runway for beauty; it is now recognised as a platform where contestants channel their passions into advocacy. From social work and entrepreneurship to national representation on global platforms, the pageant has become a vehicle for empowerment and change.

Ashma Kumari KC, the reigning Miss Nepal, recalls growing up watching the pageant and admiring the women who wore the crown. To her young eyes, they were symbols of confidence, elegance, and purpose. As she grew older, her childhood dream of competing in Miss Nepal faded into the background. Life moved on, and other priorities took over. But her family and friends continued to believe in her. They p...