IN a world where top models are still calling for more diversity in the fashion and beauty industry, an Indian ex-beauty queen from Colchester is making every attempt to fill the void.
Miss Black Beauty UK is for black and Asian women to showcase their culture, creativity and knowledge as they compete for a professional photography portfolio and the opportunity to be placed into the international Miss Commonwealth pageant next month.
Founder Pam Boon wanted to create something unique to Colchester, having experienced first-hand the barriers for women of colour since entering the industry at 18.
She said: “Our society has become more diverse now so we have to look at what’s available.
"There are so many different shades to black and brown, but many a time during pageant or model events, women are being asked if they have their own make-up for instance.
“The same goes with hair. Stylists will say ‘I’ve never worked with hair this coarse or fine’ - there’s always that bit of awkwardness.
“It was always helpful to me if I had my own make-up or could do my own hair.”
Pam pictured at 28-years-old, years before she took the pageant crown
Great minds think alike so Pam has now linked up with Deborah Lee, a hairdresser and tutor who agrees students should be better trained for black and minority-ethnic clients.
So far more than 60 women have entered from across the country, but Pam is calling for more women from Colchester, Tendring and Ipswich.
As well as being crowned Miss Black Beauty UK, a runner-up or first runner-up, there is an award for Miss Black Beauty Charity Queen.
She said:“I’ve kept my fingers in all pies, whether that be in fashion, beauty or music, as I DJ as well, but pageants has always been my niche, which means you get to see the flaws and where there needs to be more attention.
“The pageant gives an opportunity to other ladies like myself who have a great history and culture to show themselves off, and share their wisdom and knowledge with everyone else.”
Firstsite at High Street, Colchester, is hosting the event on Sunday, October 29.
If you are aged 18 and over, enter by visiting pamspageants.com. The closing date for entries is October 15.
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