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Inspirational People

Sarah Leena Bou Jaoude: “This is the message I want to carry to Miss Universe 2025”

Rim Nsouli

5-November-2025

Sarah Leena Bou Jaoude: “This is the message I want to carry to Miss Universe 2025”

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With her beauty, intelligence, confidence and deep love for her homeland, Sarah Leena Bou Jaoude has captivated attention ever since she was crowned First Runner-Up of Miss Lebanon 2024. Today, she embarks on a new and exciting journey — having set off just a few days ago to Thailand to represent Lebanon at Miss Universe 2025.

Sarah Leena carries with her a message that goes beyond beauty, one about youth empowerment, honesty, and inner strength. She seeks to show the world the image of the ambitious Lebanese woman who combines elegance with substance. In this exclusive interview with our magazine, Sarah opens up about her preparations for the competition, the values and message she’s bringing with her, and what it truly means to represent Lebanon with pride and passion on one of the world’s biggest stages.



How did you find Thailand? Is this your first time there?

I was incredibly excited — going to Thailand felt like a dream come true! It’s my first time here, and I couldn’t wait to explore its culture and share the energy of Lebanon with it. But honestly, the warmth of the people, the breathtaking scenery, and the kindness I found here exceeded all my expectations.

What message do you want to convey through your participation as Lebanon’s representative?

Through my participation, I want to show the world that our strength lies in choosing hope and love every single day. Just a few days ago, I was walking through the streets of Lebanon, meeting people, seeing their smiles and generosity — and I was reminded that our spirit is truly unbreakable. That’s the message I’m bringing to Miss Universe: resilience, kindness, and the courage to keep dreaming no matter the circumstances.

How did you prepare for Miss Universe? Can you tell us about your training routine?

My days were very busy! Between stage walk training, public speaking practice, and many fitting and styling sessions, I always made sure to dedicate time to my social work, which focuses on youth wellness. The most important part of my preparation, however, was being mentally ready for this big journey.



What are you focusing on in your Miss Universe preparations — mentally, physically, and style-wise?

I’m focusing on staying emotionally and mentally grounded, taking care of my body in a healthy and balanced way, and expressing my true self through my personal style. I want every detail — from the way I walk to the way I speak — to reflect who I really am.

How much time do you dedicate daily to your preparation?

It really varies from a day to another and each day is different but I dedicate several hours daily to preparing — from training and practicing communication to taking time for self-reflection. It’s not just about routines; it’s about growing into the best version of myself.

Tell us more about your journey to Miss Universe, and the steps you’ve taken to be fully prepared.

My journey to Miss Universe has been a beautiful mix of discipline and self-discovery. I’ve worked on improving my communication skills, stage presence, and fitness, but most importantly, I’ve focused on understanding my purpose in this experience. Each step has helped me grow, not only as a contestant but as a young woman representing Lebanon.

How did you balance representing Lebanon at events while preparing for the competition? What has been your main focus during this period?

Representing Lebanon at events while preparing for the competition is definitely a challenge that requires balance. But every appearance reminds me why I’m doing this. My main focus now is to proudly carry the spirit of Lebanon and to be ready to represent it in the best possible way on the international stage.



Did you work with a team of trainers, beauty experts, and designers? And did they accompany you to Thailand?

Yes, I’ve been surrounded by a wonderful team of trainers, beauty experts, designers, and mentors who supported me every step of the way. They didn’t come with me to Thailand, but I carry their trust, guidance, and everything I’ve learned from them wherever I go.

Did you speak with Miss Lebanon 2024, Nada Kousa, about the competition? What advice did she give you?

Yes, I did! Nada was so kind and supportive. She advised me to live every moment to the fullest, to enjoy every second, and to let my true personality shine, because that’s what makes every contestant unique in her own way.

Is there a particular aspect of Lebanese culture or heritage you’d like to highlight during the competition?
I want to highlight the warmth and resilience of Lebanese culture — our love for family, the richness of our traditions, and our ability to find beauty even in the toughest moments. I’m so proud to carry that spirit with me on stage, to show the world what truly makes Lebanon special. This message is also very close to the campaign I recently filmed and released!



How do you feel about the love and support you’re receiving from the Lebanese people?

I feel the love of the Lebanese people every day — through messages, words of encouragement, and even from people I don’t know personally who express their support. That feeling gives me so much motivations and reminds me that I’m not just representing myself — I’m representing my entire country.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned from this experience so far?

The most important lesson I’ve learned is patience and self-belief. I’ve had moments of doubt and challenge, but they taught me to trust myself, stay true to who I am, and remember that real growth often comes from the hardest experiences.



What message would you like to share with young women who dream of following a path similar to yours?

I want to tell every young woman: believe in yourself, give your energy to your passion, dream big, work hard, and stay honest with yourself. Let your energy inspire those around you — that’s what makes people remember you.

If you win the Miss Universe title, what’s the first thing you’d do?

The first thing I’d think about is Lebanon and all the people who supported me. I’d immediately want to know how they feel — if they’re proud and happy. That connection with my country means everything to me.

After Miss Universe, what’s next for you personally and professionally?

After Miss Universe, I’d love to continue being a face for Lebanon and to use my voice to represent my country with pride. I see the title as more than a crown — it’s a responsibility to inspire others, highlight our culture, and share the warmth, strength, and beauty of Lebanon with the world. My goal is to keep growing, personally and professionally, and to leave a positive impact wherever I go.

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