Feeling lost to getting death threats: Erica Robin’s incredible journey through Miss Universe

At just 25 years old, Erica Robin has already made history as the trailblazing first-ever Miss Universe Pakistan. Behind the glamorous photos lies a grueling journey that demanded endless passion and determination.

Subjected to relentless trolling and told she needed to relearn how to walk and talk, Erica faced numerous challenges, including battling red tape just to board a plane to El Salvador. Her journey was anything but smooth, but instead of keeping it all to herself, Erica opened up about her experiences in Frieha Altaf’s podcast, FWhy.

Entering the Miss Universe competition

A year into her modeling career, Erica realized she could commit to it full-time. Despite having “zero knowledge” about the Miss Universe contest, she decided to submit her profile upon learning that Pakistan had no representation in the competition. Despite her lack of confidence, she was shortlisted after filling out the form.

“I filled out the form without even knowing if it was authentic, and then I got an email that I had been shortlisted,” she recalled.

Although she initially thought the email was “fake,” Erica ended up being interviewed and shortlisted as one of the top 20 Miss Universe Pakistan candidates out of 200 girls. Many of the candidates were living abroad. Making it to the top 5, Erica then traveled to the Maldives for the final round. Staying true to her values, she had already expressed that she would not wear revealing clothing.

“I still had no idea that this was it,” she said. “It was only when I got there that I realized that the winner of this round would be crowned Miss Universe Pakistan!”

Dealing with trolls and training

Erica’s initial disbelief at winning the title of Miss Universe Pakistan turned into fear when internet trolls began to target her. “It was supposed to be a special moment,” she said. “But then I started getting threats.”

Despite facing challenges and lack of support from the fashion industry, Erica remained determined to pursue her dreams. “I had to pay for the training myself. No one from the government sponsored me, even though I was representing the country, and no one from the industry supported me [financially].”

Thankfully, Erica had savings to rely on and continued her journey, despite the obstacles. She traveled to the Philippines for a month of training, expecting to excel but faced tough realities.

“Training was tough,” she admitted. “I cried at night. They told me I didn’t know how to walk properly, and I couldn’t talk in front of the camera to save my life! I had to practice talking in the mirror every morning when putting on my makeup!”

Setbacks

Just three days before her departure for El Salvador, Erica realized she needed a transit visa to fly, throwing her plans into jeopardy. She acknowledged the Philippines government for their support, but anxiety loomed as she feared her dreams would crumble and the runner-up Miss Universe Pakistan would take her place, as was customary.

“I was so depressed,” she recalled. “But they really helped me out, and eventually, with little time left, I had to endure a 40-hour journey to reach El Salvador.”

With mounting expenses, Erica had to seek financial assistance from her contacts just to board the plane. Upon arrival, she was so exhausted that she feared she had contracted COVID-19. “I lost my voice, I was so tired. I thought if I had COVID, I’ll just die here in El Salvador.”

Lessons learned in the competition

Despite the challenges, Erica managed to navigate through interviews and the competition process. She emphasized that the pageant wasn’t solely about beauty, highlighting the importance of discipline and punctuality.

Another takeaway for Erica was challenging stereotypes about Pakistan. “People thought I had studied abroad because I could speak English!” she exclaimed. “They think we still use camels or something, and couldn’t believe I had a social life.”

Although Erica has no regrets about her participation, she acknowledged the financial strain, disclosing that she paid 5 million from her own pocket. She urged the government to sponsor future candidates to ensure equal opportunities for all.

Paving the way

Erica takes pride in paving the way for other girls to follow. “Anyone can apply, if they have the potential and the spark,” she asserted. “You don’t have to have a ‘source’.”

She is grateful for the platform she has gained and is committed to using her voice for social causes like anti-gender bias and feminism.

Reflecting on her transformation, Erica noted how recognition has compelled her to be more thoughtful in her speech and behavior. “Before this, I was just I, me, myself, but when you know you have a title, people are looking up to you – you automatically change. Your behavior changes. You adapt. I am more calm and composed and think before saying anything in a public place.”