SANYA ADHIKARI
MISS UNIVERSE NEPAL 2025
From dreaming big as a little girl to stepping onto a global stage with courage and conviction, Sanya Adhikari’s journey is one of quiet strength and radiant determination. Sanya speaks of beauty not as perfection, but as power – the kind that uplifts, inspires, and transforms. At 24, Sanya stands as more than just Miss Universe Nepal 2025, she is the embodiment of the young Nepali woman: grounded, purposeful, and unafraid to dream audaciously.
In conversation with WOW, Sanya shares her story and reflects on the values that shaped her, the purpose that drives her, and the beauty that begins from within. Excerpts:
Nepali women are capable of standing tall on global stages while staying true to our roots. This win isn’t just personal; it’s a symbol of how far we have come as a country that celebrates individuality, inclusivity and purpose
What was your childhood like? What kind of girl were you growing up – dreamer, go-getter, or quiet observer?
I believe I was a mixture of all three. I was a dreamer and always believed my dreams would come true, and somehow, they often did, so I think my manifestations worked. I was also a quiet observer who tried to absorb positivity and good energy from others, and definitely a go-getter when it came to the things I truly believed in.
When did the dream of wearing the crown first take root? How did you reach the Miss Universe Nepal platform?
It was actually always my childhood dream. I used to watch pageants and imagine myself on that stage. During my younger days, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to pursue Miss World or Miss Universe, but eventually I realised Miss Universe was the one for me. The journey, though, turned out to be nothing like I had imagined. It has been fun, exciting, and full of growth, but also not as easy as it appears on TV. It’s not just about beauty; it’s about impact, voice and purpose.
What were some of the values or lessons that shaped the woman you are today?
Humility, kindness, resilience and the power of community, these are the values that shaped me. My upbringing taught me that success isn’t about making your own life better, it’s about uplifting others along the way. My father has always been my biggest example of that. He showed me that real strength comes from compassion and doing good quietly, without expecting anything in return.
As Miss Universe Nepal 2025, how has life changed? What does a regular day look like post winning the crown?
Life has definitely become busier but in the best way possible. Every day now carries a bigger sense of purpose. I am constantly training, preparing, attending events and working on my advocacy, so balance has become essential. I have learnt to approach everything with discipline and gratitude. The biggest change is realising that I am not just living my dream anymore, I am living for something bigger than myself.
Pageantry today is so much more than beauty. What do you think makes Miss Universe still relevant to a generation that values authenticity and purpose?
Miss Universe remains relevant because it has evolved with time. It’s not about being perfect anymore; it’s about being real. The platform celebrates authenticity, confidence and purpose. It gives women across the world a chance to share their stories, challenge stereotypes and create change. That’s what makes it powerful and relatable to our generation, it’s about real women making real impact.
I think my win reflects how Nepal is evolving; we are becoming more open, confident and proud of who we are. It’s a reminder that Nepali women are capable of standing tall on global stages while staying true to our roots. For me, this win isn’t just personal; it’s a symbol of how far we’ve come as a country that celebrates individuality, inclusivity and purpose.
You’ll soon be stepping onto the global Miss Universe stage. What message do you want to share with the world about Nepal and its women?
I want the world to know that Nepali women are strong, kind and full of heart. We come from a place small on the map but are huge in spirit. Nepali women carry grace and resilience; we know how to rise no matter what life throws our way. My message to the world would be that women from Nepal are proof that strength and softness can coexist beautifully.
Dreams don’t come true overnight; they unfold beautifully when you grow into the person ready to live them.
What are your plans after Miss Universe? How do you see yourself using this platform beyond the stage?
After Miss Universe, I want to continue working on my advocacy to end child labour. It’s something I deeply care about, and I plan to collaborate with organisations like the ILO that work under the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 8.7 to eliminate child labour by 2025. I have seen children working when they should be learning, and it’s something that has always stayed with me. Every child deserves a childhood – to play, dream, study and just be free. My purpose as Miss Universe Nepal is to raise awareness about this issue and promote education as the real solution. When we protect children, we protect the future.
Personally, I want to keep growing as a communicator and as someone who uses her voice to make a real difference.
Can you share a moment of doubt or challenge that tested your strength and how you overcame it?
There were definitely moments when I questioned myself. There were times I felt I wasn’t enough or things just weren’t going my way. But I learnt that it’s okay to feel that way sometimes. What matters is not giving up. I started focusing on progress instead of perfection. I reminded myself why I started and used those doubts as motivation. Every challenge made me stronger and more grounded.
What keeps you grounded?
It’s always the simple things that keep me grounded – my family, my close friends, and quiet moments with myself. Spending time with loved ones, journaling, or simply watching the sunset helps me reconnect with who I am beyond the crown. This journey is a blessing, but the person I am underneath it all is what truly matters.
