Sangeetha Menon @mrs_glamour_london
Perumira Global Talent is proud to present an updated and deeply inspiring interview with Sangeetha Menon, a trailblazer whose journey has rewritten the standards of beauty, age, and representation in British pageantry. From her initial title as Miss Glamour London 2025 to being crowned Mrs Glamour United Kingdom 2025, and more recently as Mrs Congeniality Galaxy UK’25, Sangeetha’s journey is one of courage, empowerment, and cultural significance.
In a nation where pageants have been celebrated for over 80 years, Sangeetha has become the first Indian woman over the age of 40 to win a national beauty title in the United Kingdom—a staggering achievement considering that people of Indian origin have been part of British society for over 400 years. This is more than a personal victory; it’s a groundbreaking moment that signals a shift towards inclusion, representation, and the overdue visibility of South Asian women on national platforms.
This special updated interview gives Perumira readers the unique opportunity to follow Sangeetha’s full transformation — from her early reflections as Miss Glamour London 2025 to her current reign as a national queen. It is a powerful timeline that captures her confidence, elegance, authenticity and commitment to empowering women of all shapes, sizes and ages. As a proud plus-size model, she also challenges outdated beauty norms and encourages women to reclaim their narrative, their identity, and their dreams.
Sangeetha’s achievements resonate far beyond the crown. She stands as a beacon of strength for women in their 40s and beyond, for Indian and South Asian communities, and for all who have felt unseen by mainstream standards. Her voice adds powerful weight to the conversation around diversity, inclusion and the evolution of pageantry in the UK.
In this exclusive feature, readers will witness not only the journey of a beauty queen but the rise of a cultural icon. Her legacy is being written in real time — not just in sashes and trophies, but in hearts and headlines.
Stay with us as we walk through Sangeetha Menon’s path — one that blends grace, purpose and representation — and marks a new era for pageantry and empowerment in the United Kingdom.
1. It took 80 years of UK pageantry history for a 40+ Indian-born woman to hold a national title. How did that realisation shape the way you approached this competition?
That realisation gave me a deep sense of purpose. I knew that my presence alone would challenge long-standing ideas about who truly belongs in pageantry. I approached the stage not just as a contestant, but as a representative for every woman who had ever felt overlooked because of her age, ethnicity, or background. I wanted to prove that dreams don’t have deadlines, and that beauty, strength and grace are not confined to youth — they grow with us.
2. Your victory goes far beyond a crown — it’s a breakthrough for South Asian visibility in the UK. How do you envision using your platform to inspire and empower others?
This platform is both a mirror and a voice. I want South Asian women and people from all underrepresented backgrounds to see that they belong in spaces where they have rarely been seen. I intend to use this opportunity to highlight marginalised voices, support grassroots campaigns and mentor women who are discovering their confidence and calling later in life. I am especially passionate about championing diversity in pageantry and fashion not as a trend, but as an essential reflection of real life in modern Britain.
3. What personal barriers — mental, societal, or cultural — did you have to overcome on your journey to Miss Glamour 2025?
There were many. Culturally, I grew up in a space where modesty was often mistaken for silence, and ambition was something women weren’t encouraged to express openly. Societally, age and size bias still dominate the beauty world — and mentally, I had to battle that inner critic telling me I wasn’t what a ‘titleholder’ should look like. But pageantry became my rebellion, a way to reclaim space, voice, and identity not just for me, but for every woman who’s been told she’s ‘too much’ or ‘not enough.’
4. You beautifully said this moment is “a statement, not just a milestone.” What message do you believe your win sends to women who feel unseen or unrepresented?
It says: You matter, your belong, and it’s never too late. My win is a love letter to every woman who has ever felt invisible whether because of her colour, culture, size, age or story. We have been conditioned to shrink ourselves to wait, to doubt and to stay silent. But this crown isn’t just a symbol of glamour, it’s a declaration that representation changes everything. When one woman is seen, many more find the courage to step into the light.
5. As a woman over 40, how do you redefine beauty, strength, and confidence on a stage long dominated by youth-centric standards?
By showing up as I am, unapologetically. Beauty, to me, is not about flawlessness — it’s about authenticity. Strength is in knowing who you are and confidence comes from embracing every chapter of your journey.
I believe women over 40 carry a magnetic kind of beauty — one shaped by life, by growth and by grit. I am here to challenge the idea that our prime is behind us. In truth, many of us are only just getting started.
6. How has your Indian heritage and British nationality shaped your identity as a titleholder and as a role model for future generations?
My Indian heritage is the foundation of who I am. It is where my values, resilience and creativity come from. I grew up immersed in rich traditions, vibrant culture and a strong sense of family and community. Moving to the UK as an adult gave me a new lens and it taught me adaptability, perspective and showed me the power of standing out rather than trying to fit in.
As an immigrant, I have had to carve out space where none existed, to blend cultures without losing myself in the process. Holding a national title as an Indian-born woman sends a powerful message ‘You don’t need to let go of your roots to rise.’
In fact, your heritage can be your greatest strength. I hope this inspires others, especially children of immigrants and women navigating dual identities, to embrace every part of who they are.
7. What would you say today to the little girl in you who once may have doubted whether she truly belonged on a national stage?
I would tell her: “You always belonged. You just needed to see someone like you do it first.”
And now, you are that someone.
You are enough. You are worthy and you are more powerful than you realise. The stage was never too big, you just hadn’t grown into it yet.
FIRST INTERVIEW
1.- Sangeetha, congratulations on being crowned Mrs. Congeniality Galaxy UK 2025! How did it feel to receive such a heartfelt and meaningful title?
Thank you so much! Being crowned Mrs. Congeniality Galaxy UK 2025 was incredibly special to me, especially because it was a title chosen by my fellow finalists. It’s an honour that speaks to the heart of who I am. And I am also proud to currently hold the title of Mrs. Glamour London, with my finals coming up in May 2025. Both titles represent different yet powerful aspects of my journey of courage, kindness, resilience and the belief that there’s beauty in every story. These moments are not just wins but they are validations of everything I have fought through and risen above.
2.- What does the title Mrs. Congeniality represent to you on a personal and emotional level?
To me, the title of Mrs. Congeniality is incredibly personal. It represents authenticity, warmth and the power of uplifting others, something I have always tried to live by. Throughout this pageant journey, both as Mrs. Congeniality Galaxy UK and now as Mrs. Glamour London, I have stayed true to myself, choosing kindness even in competition. Coming from a space where I once doubted my worth, being recognised for my heart and spirit means everything. It’s a reminder that genuine connection and compassion are just as impactful as any crown or sash.
3.- How do you see your role within the Galaxy UK pageant system in terms of promoting kindness, inclusion and sisterhood?
My role is to be a bridge a connector who fosters kindness, celebrates diversity and lifts others as I rise. The Galaxy UK pageant system, along with the Mrs. Glamour platform, gave me the confidence to stand proudly in my own skin. I want to use that platform to create safe spaces where women feel empowered, not judged but celebrated and not compared. Sisterhood isn’t just about camaraderie, it’s about actively showing up for one another. I am here to spread that message through every conversation, collaboration and campaign I lead.
4.- As a proud plus-size model, what challenges have you overcome to stand confidently in the fashion and pageant industry?
There have been many. I was born with congenital hypothyroidism, which went undiagnosed for years. No matter how much I worked out or how little I ate, I was always the “big girl.” I faced constant judgment and unsolicited advice—people often told me, “You have such a lovely face but would look amazing if I lost weight.” That narrative followed me for years, and unfortunately even led to an engagement falling apart due to pressure from my would-be mother-in-law, who insisted I lose weight to match her son’s slim frame.
My parents were always my biggest cheerleaders, reassuring me through every struggle. But growing up in a society where beauty was narrowly defined made things incredibly difficult, but I moved forward not limiting beliefs that held me back. And today, as Mrs. Congeniality Galaxy UK and Mrs. Glamour London, I am proud to be a plus-size model who represents real resilience, real woman and the power of beauty of character. I want to prove that beauty isn’t about size, it’s about spirit, strength, confidence and above all self-love.
5.- You are an outspoken advocate for empowering women – what does female empowerment mean to you today?
To me, female empowerment is about creating spaces where women can rise as they are—unapologetically, confidently and authentically. It’s about more than just words, it’s about action. I believe true empowerment begins in the community. I made it a mission to support and uplift women-led small businesses around me. I have proudly empowered five incredible women within my local community and would empower many more by helping them step into the digital world, model their creations, promote them through social media, build meaningful visibility and leverage their talents, capabilities and hard work.
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Anu (https://www.instagram.com/anew_afinesse/), a gifted designer repurposing Indian fashion into pageant wear—whom I helped transition into the pageant industry.
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Sabi (https://www.instagram.com/beauty_by_sabii/), my aesthetics sponsor, for whom I created engaging print and video content to spotlight her home-based salon.
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Ash (https://www.instagram.com/blushandglowwithash/) – my official pageant MUA, whom I have helped turn passion to profession showcasing her talent to a wider audience.
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Mariam (https://www.instagram.com/mapelanuhairand/), a single mum from Nigeria, whose lash extension and fabric business I promoted through visuals, storytelling, and social platforms.
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Safura (https://www.instagram.com/accessories_safura/) a fashion and accessories entrepreneur I supported in launching her Instagram business with modelling and promotional content.
Female empowerment, to me, is lending your voice to amplify other’s dreams. It’s mentoring, supporting, collaborating and reminding every woman that she’s never alone on her journey.
6.- How has your personal journey shaped the message you share with other women and girls?
My journey from battling undiagnosed congenital hypothyroidism and PCOS to overcoming body shaming, bullying and even a broken engagement due to my size, has taught me the true meaning of self-worth and resilience. As a middle-aged, plus-size model of Indian heritage and an immigrant in the UK, I wear many identities and I embrace them all. I proudly call myself an ‘Intersectionality Queen’ because I know I bring depth, diversity and strength to the table. If I can rise above the odds and stand confidently in my skin, so can anybody. Through my titles as Mrs. Congeniality Galaxy UK and Mrs. Glamour London, I share this message: You are enough. You are powerful. You are unstoppable. And now, it’s your turn to own your story and shine.
7.- What inspired you to join the Galaxy UK pageant system in the first place?
Because I refuse to let fear define me anymore! For years, I hid from mirrors, avoided cameras and let the world’s judgments on my weight, shaped by congenital hypothyroidism, dim my confidence. But not anymore. I chose to break free, to stand tall and to be seen. Not just for me, but for my daughter to show her that self-love, courage and chasing dreams are what truly matters. Galaxy has changed my life, and I hope one day she will look at me and say, “That’s my mum, and I’m proud of her.
8.- In your opinion, what sets Galaxy UK apart from other pageants around the world?
What sets the UK Galaxy Pageant apart is its incredible celebration of diversity, authenticity, and individuality. It’s a system that embraces women from all walks of life—regardless of size, background, or personal journey—and offers a platform where you are not only seen, but truly heard and valued. The sense of sisterhood, support, and genuine empowerment that flows through this system is truly special. That said, I believe that more than any pageant system, it is your own confidence, purpose, and passion that truly make the difference. If you’re a woman who believes in herself and in the message you want to share with the world, there are several wonderful pageant systems across the UK that will welcome you with open arms and give you the space to shine. The power lies within you—the platform is just the stage.
9.- What advice would you give to women who feel they don’t fit the “traditional” beauty standards but still dream of competing?
My advice, Go for it—unapologetically. The idea of “traditional” beauty is outdated, narrow, and honestly, overrated. Beauty isn’t about fitting into a mould, it’s about breaking it with grace, confidence and authenticity. If you have ever been told you’re “too different,» «too curvy,» «too tall,» «too dark,» or “not enough” of something—know this: your uniqueness is your superpower. Pageantry is evolving, and there’s space now more than ever for real, raw, powerful women who represent the beautiful diversity of our world and can use their platform to make a difference. So don’t wait to “fit in”. Walk in like you already belong—because you do. The crown isn’t just for those who fit a standard, it’s for those who stand out.
10.- As a role model, how do you use your platform to promote body positivity and diversity?
As someone who once struggled with body image, bullying and confidence, I’ve made it my mission to use my platform to promote body positivity, self-worth and true representation. Through my campaign “Unstoppable Me,” I shine a light on how body shaming is still casually embedded in society through comments, comparisons and unrealistic beauty standards. How we can change that narrative, especially for the next generation. I proudly represent as a plus-size woman in pageantry and modelling, because visibility matters. I want other women and young girls to see that you don’t have to shrink yourself to be celebrated. Confidence, kindness and authenticity are far more powerful than a number on a scale. I also collaborate with small businesses, many of them run by women from diverse backgrounds, and I model for brands that embrace real bodies and real stories. For me, promoting diversity and body positivity isn’t a trend, it’s a responsibility I carry with pride.
11.- What was the most powerful or emotional moment you experienced during the Galaxy UK 2025 pageant?
The most powerful and emotional moment for me during the Galaxy UK 2025 pageant was winning the Mrs. Congeniality title. It was completely unexpected and that’s what made it so deeply meaningful. Being recognised by my fellow contestants, in a space filled with strong, inspiring women, was incredibly humbling. It wasn’t about how I looked or how I performed, it was about who I was as a person. It reminded me that kindness, support and showing up for others truly matter. After everything I have been through, battling self-doubt, body shaming and rebuilding my confidence, being seen for my heart was one of the most validating and emotional experiences of my pageant journey. That moment will forever stay close to my soul.
12.- Do you feel the UK pageant industry is evolving in terms of representation and inclusivity?
Yes, I truly believe the UK pageant industry is evolving—and it’s a beautiful shift to witness and be part of. There’s a growing celebration of real women—in all our shapes, sizes, skin tones, backgrounds and life stories. It’s no longer just about a polished image, but about purpose, authenticity, and passion. As someone who doesn’t fit the traditional pageant mould, I have felt not just accepted but embraced—which says a lot about how far we have come. Systems like Galaxy UK have championed diversity, giving women like me the confidence to step forward and be seen, not just for how we look, but for the message we carry. Of course, there is still room to grow. But every woman who steps on that stage and owns her story pushes the industry forward. And I am proud to be part of that change.
13.- Outside of pageantry, how do you stay grounded and connected to your mission of empowerment?
Outside of pageantry, I stay grounded and deeply connected to my mission of empowerment by living it every day—beyond the crown and spotlight. Whether I am at a social gathering, a traditional community event or just in conversation with friends and women I meet, I always bring Unstoppable Me into the room. I truly believe that empowerment starts with a simple reassurance: you are enough, just as you are.
I also work closely with local women-led small businesses, offering my time, platform, and creative support to help them grow. From modelling for their brands to creating content and spreading the word, I find so much joy in lifting others up. For me, this journey is not just about personal success, it is about creating a ripple effect of confidence, courage, and community. That’s the heartbeat of everything I do.
14.- What are your future goals as a model, titleholder, and advocate for women?
With my new title as Mrs. Glamour London, I feel more empowered than ever to take my advocacy to the next level. My main focus will be expanding my ‘Unstoppable Me’ campaign—hosting workshops for youth and parents to address body positivity and the impact of social media on self-image. Creating safe, honest conversations around self-worth is something I am deeply passionate about. I have also proudly accepted the role of Ambassador for Bromley Food Bank, where I will be using my social media presence to highlight urgent needs and encourage more targeted food donations. It is a cause close to my heart. Additionally, I am honoured to be stepping in as Co-Director of ‘Unbound’, a charity founded by my fellow pageant sister Jillian Alexander, where we will work to raise awareness around modern slavery and help empower survivors in their journey forward. On a lighter yet equally fulfilling note, I am continuing my toy donation drive for the children’s ward at Princess Royal University Hospital, spreading smiles where they matter most. And of course, I am also pursuing my long-held dream of making a mark as a plus-size model, embracing both print and runway campaigns to represent real, radiant bodies in fashion. This is just the beginning—and I am excited for everything to come.
15.- If you could describe your Galaxy UK experience in three words, what would they be – and why?
Empowering – because Galaxy UK gave me the platform to embrace my story, my body, and my voice unapologetically.
Transformational – because it helped me evolve from someone who once hid from mirrors to someone proudly standing in front of the world, crown or no crown.
Heartfelt – because the connections I made, especially being honoured with the Mrs. Congeniality title, came from a place of genuine love, sisterhood and shared dreams. Galaxy was not just a pageant—it was a turning point in my life.
16.- What message would you like to send to young women across the UK who look up to you?
To every young woman across the UK who looks up to me—thank you. I want you to know this: you don’t need to change yourself to be worthy—you just need to be yourself, fully and fearlessly. You are not too much. You are not too different. You are not defined by a number, a label, or anyone else’s opinion of you. Your voice matters. Your dreams are valid. And your uniqueness is your magic.
Whether you’re walking a runway, raising your voice for a cause, or simply learning to love the reflection in the mirror—do it with pride. Be kind, be bold and above all, be unstoppable. Because if I can rise, so can you. And I’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.
Interview conducted by Jaime William Mostacero Baca with Sangeetha Menon – India
English language
Interview authorized : Sangeetha Menon – Perumira – Jaime William
All Rights Reserved in the name of Sangeetha Menon – Perumira – Jaime William