From Runway Model to Miss Universe Bangladesh: Samira Khan Mahi’s Journey to the Global Stage

Once known for her appearances on fashion runways, Samira Khan Mahi has gradually built a name for herself in Bangladesh’s entertainment industry. From modelling and television dramas to overcoming personal challenges and making a comeback, her journey has been marked by determination and reinvention.

Now, she is preparing for the biggest opportunity of her career so far: representing Bangladesh at the 75th edition of the Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico on November 24, 2026.

Mahi is scheduled to leave Bangladesh for Puerto Rico today, carrying the hopes and expectations of the country as she prepares to compete against contestants from around the world.

A New Identity, A New Beginning

Mahi was born Farzana Yasmin Koli. In 2014, when she began pursuing a career in the entertainment industry, she adopted the professional name Samira Khan Mahi.

The new name marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life. At the time, her ambition was to establish herself in modelling. Little did she know that the same name would one day represent Bangladesh on one of the world’s most recognised beauty pageant stages.

Modelling Career Began in 2014

Mahi entered the entertainment industry through modelling. In 2014, she participated in the ‘Rong RTV 20-20 Colors Model Search’ competition, where she secured the first runner-up position.

The achievement helped her gain recognition in the fashion industry. She subsequently worked in fashion shows, runway events, television commercials and professional photo shoots.

Through these experiences, she developed confidence in front of the camera and learned the art of presentation, expression and stage performance.

A Three-Year Break Due to Illness

Her early career, however, did not progress without challenges. An illness forced Mahi to stay away from professional work for nearly three years.

The prolonged break created uncertainty about her future in the industry. But she eventually decided to return and rebuild her career.

Her comeback required patience, preparation and the determination to establish herself beyond her earlier identity as a model.

From Modelling to Acting

Acting was not initially part of Mahi’s career plan. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, she began considering opportunities in acting.

After preparing herself and developing her skills, she started working regularly in television dramas towards the end of 2021.

Her acting career gained momentum quickly. At one point, she appeared in more than 30 dramas within six months.

‘Girls Squad’ Became a Turning Point

The drama series ‘Girls Squad’ played an important role in bringing Mahi wider recognition among television audiences.

She later appeared in various dramas and web productions, including ‘Hangor’. These projects helped her establish a separate identity as an actress rather than being known solely as a model.

By 2025, she had acted in more than 120 television dramas.

Despite her growing workload, Mahi has expressed an interest in exploring diverse characters and moving beyond glamour-oriented roles.

Facing Criticism with Confidence

Like many public figures, Mahi has faced criticism on social media over her appearance, fashion choices and personal style.

Even photographs shared without makeup have attracted negative comments. However, she has continued to focus on her professional work and personal growth.

Maintaining confidence and staying committed to her goals have remained important aspects of her journey.

Winning the Miss Universe Bangladesh Crown

A new milestone arrived on November 7, 2026, when Samira Khan Mahi won the title of Miss Universe Bangladesh.

She received the crown from the previous year’s winner, Tanzia Zaman Mithila.

The victory earned her the opportunity to represent Bangladesh at the international Miss Universe competition.

For Mahi, the achievement marks a significant transition from the local fashion and entertainment industry to an international platform.

Preparing to Represent Bangladesh

The 75th edition of Miss Universe will take place in Puerto Rico on November 24, 2026. Contestants from different countries will compete in the international event.

Mahi’s participation will offer her an opportunity to showcase not only her personality and presentation skills but also Bangladesh’s culture, heritage and identity.

Her parents have been a major source of encouragement throughout her journey. Their message to her has been simple: “Go and conquer the world.”

From the runway to television screens and now the international beauty pageant stage, Mahi’s journey reflects years of effort, setbacks and determination.

As she prepares to represent Bangladesh on the global stage, all eyes will be on how far this new chapter takes her.