We are thrilled to welcome Meriem Sayah, the reigning Miss Elite Algeria 2024 and a rising international model, as our very first guest from Algeria here at Perumira Magazine. Meriem has quickly become a shining star in the world of fashion and pageantry, representing her country with grace, elegance, and confidence. Her journey from Algeria to the international modeling scene is a true testament to her dedication, passion, and hard work.
In this exclusive interview, Meriem Sayah shares her inspiring story—how she embraced her dreams, the challenges she overcame, and what it means to be a role model for young women in Algeria and beyond. As Miss Elite Algeria 2024, she is not only a beauty queen but also an advocate for female empowerment and self-confidence. Her strong presence in the modeling industry and on the pageant stage has made her a symbol of success and ambition.
Join us as we dive into Meriem’s fascinating life, her experiences as an international model, and her thoughts on the future of the fashion industry. We are honored to have her as our guest and to celebrate her incredible achievements as she paves the way for future generations of Algerian women in fashion and beyond.
1 – Meriem, tell me about the city where you were born and raised. ,What do you like about your hometown?
I was born and raised in Algiers, the capital of Algeria. The city has a rich history and vibrant culture which I truly appreciate. What I love most about Algiers is its blend of modernity and tradition. The people are warm and supportive creating a strong sense of community. The local cuisine reflects a mix of Berber, Arab, Ottoman, and French influences, which adds to its charm. Algiers’ location by the Mediterranean Sea offers beautiful coastlines and stunning views, and growing up here has given me a deep appreciation for both my heritage and the beauty of nature.
2– What are your hobbies? what makes you laugh a lot or gives you joy?
Dancing is one of my favorite hobbies even though I’m not a professional dancer. It makes me feel confident, helps me release negative energy and keeps me motivated. I always find joy in moving to music I also love writing because it helps me clear my mind and stay organized. I believe that the pen and paper are my best friends they allow me to express whatever I’m thinking without fear of judgment, which brings me a lot of peace and satisfaction
3- -International Model, Miss Elite Algeria 2024. When did you decide to take your first steps as a model and beauty pageants? What feeling do you have achieving your dreams, your passions and being a recognized influencer woman today?
Becoming a model was a childhood dream of mine, and achieving it required considerable time, sacrifice, and hard work. I never gave up because I believe that nothing comes easily and you must fight for your dreams with patience. My passion for expressing myself through fashion led me to enter beauty pageantry. Representing Algeria as Miss Elite 2024 has been an incredible experience, allowing me to grow and learn a great deal along the way and motivated me to reach even further
4 – What do you think is the distinctive, unique stamp of Meriem in each activity carried out as a beauty queen and model?
My unique touch as a beauty queen and model comes from my authenticity and dedication to empowering others. I bring together my skills as a therapist and beautician to inspire confidence and self-love in those I interact with. Whether on stage or in front of the camera I emphasize inner beauty and individuality , always striving to leave a positive and lasting impact.
5 – Whats is the main virtue that any woman must have to be an internacional model?
The key virtue for any woman aspiring to be model is “resilience”. The modeling industry is intensely competitive with frequent rejections and challenges ,Resilience empowers a model to navigate these obstacles adapt and grow continuously while maintaining a positive outlook. Alongside resilience, qualities such as confidence, professionalism, and adaptability are also crucial for achieving success and making lasting impact
6 – Are you aware of being an influential woman for thousands of girls who want to be models? How important is it to you to be an idol for many girls and teenagers?
Yes, I’m aware of my influence as a model and Miss elite Algeria 2024. It’s incredibly important to me to be a positive role model for young girls and teenagers. I strive to inspire confidence, perseverance, and self-belief showing that with dedication and resilience, dreams can come true. It’s both an honor and a joy to know that my journey can motivate others to reach for their own dreams.
7 – What was your feeling the first time you modeled in front of a video camera? What did you feel the first time at a beauty pageant?
The first time I modeled in front of a video camera, I was a bundle of nerves and excitement. I remember feeling an intense mix of stress and exhilaration, especially since I had struggled with social anxiety. Being in the spotlight was both daunting and thrilling. The experience pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it also ignited a passion for modeling. Similarly, my first beauty pageant was a whirlwind of emotions. I felt a blend of anxiety and anticipation, but the opportunity to showcase myself and my journey was incredibly empowering. Overcoming my social anxiety in those moments was a significant personal achievement and a crucial step in my growth.
8 – What do you think about the power of social media today?
Social media today holds immense power, shaping opinions and trends globally. When used correctly and with balance, it can be a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. It offers opportunities to connect with others, share ideas, and access a wealth of information. The key is to manage its use thoughtfully, ensuring it serves as a positive force rather than a source of stress. By striking the right balance social media can open doors to new opportunities and enrich our lives significantly
9 – How do you like to interact with your followers on social media? Whats your favorite social media?
I enjoy interacting with my followers by sharing positive experiences and insights that can be beneficial to them. I always strive to provide support and encouragement, ensuring that my content motivates and uplifts my audience. My favorite social media platform is instagram as it allows me to connect directly with my followers, share valuable experiences, and offer the support they need
10 – What would you advise young people who have talent but do not dare to take the next step? What would you advise parents who do not support their children’s talents?
For young people with talent who hesitate to move forward, my heartfelt advice is to embrace courage and persistence. Believe in your unique abilities and take risks, as stepping out of your comfort zone is essential for growth. Start with small goals to build confidence and surround yourself with supportive people. Remember, setbacks are just part of the journey. Each step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to realizing your full potential.
And for parents who struggle to support their child’s talents, I urge you to deeply understand and cherish their passions. Listen to their dreams and offer encouragement, even if the path seems unusual. Your support can ignite their confidence and open doors they might not find alone. Even if you have concerns, showing genuine interest and providing a nurturing environment can profoundly impact their growth and success.
11 – What important lessons have you learned from the world of fashion and beauty pageants?
The world of fashion and beauty pageants teach me a lot of things, I’ve learned the profound importance of self-confidence and staying true to myself. This journey has taught me to embrace resilience and face challenges with a positive spirit. It’s also shown me how crucial it is to use my platform to inspire and advocate for positive change. These lessons have deeply shaped my growth and approach to the industry
12 – Meriem, being a model for you has been easy? Were there obstacles?How did you overcome obstacles?
Being a model has never been easy; it requires a lot of hard work and dedication. There are always obstacles, such as facing rejection and criticism, which are part of the journey. The key to overcoming these challenges is perseverance and resilience. I’ve learned to embrace criticism as a chance to grow and to stay committed to my goals, no matter how tough things get. Success in modeling comes from never giving up, continuously improving, and believing in yourself through every setback
13 – Have you thought about being an actress? Do you like the entertainment industry?
I’m always open to trying new things, so exploring acting is definitely appealing to me. I have a genuine interest in the entertainment industry, and if given the chance, I’d embrace it wholeheartedly. I’m excited to see where it might lead and to apply my skills in a new and dynamic way
14 – Worldwide, women have acquired a greater role even though there are societies where they are still abused. What is your opinion of the role of women in the future in these societies?
I believe that women will continue to play a crucial and evolving role in societies where they are still oppressed. Their resilience, strength, and leadership are key drivers of change. With global awareness and support, these societies will inevitably face growing pressure to advance gender equality. While challenges persist, I am optimistic that through education, advocacy, and solidarity, more women will rise to positions of influence, helping to build a future where they are valued, protected, and empowered to fully contribute to their communities
15 -Meriem, what is your motivation and what do you feel grateful for every day?
My motivation comes from my desire to help, inspire, and uplift others, knowing that I can make a positive impact on someone’s life. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I have to grow and learn, as well as for the support and belief of those around me, especially my family, whose encouragement is a constant source of strength
16 – Meriem, Do you like to travel? What countries do you know? What other countries would you like to know and which places do you recommend to visit from your country?
Traveling was initially challenging for me due to social anxiety, but overcoming it over the past year has made the idea of exploring new cultures and traditions much more exciting. I’ve enjoyed visiting Tunisia and Egypt, and I’m looking forward to expanding my experiences by visiting Italy, uk, and Indonesia. From my own country, I highly recommend the stunning Sahara Desert, the historic city of Algiers, and the vibrant coastal town of Oran, each offering a unique glimpse into Algeria’s rich heritage.
17 – You and me (Jaime William) are going to play ping pong, I will tell you one word and you will answer with another word that comes to your mind.
Marriage / Commitment
Childrens / responsibility
Love / affection
Travel / adventure
Abortion / choice
Dance / freedom
Sing / Expression
Europe / Diverse
America / Culture
Sport / health
Money / investing
Parents / Guidance
Dreams / Goals
Passion / pleasure
Madness Percentage / balance
Character / personality
18 – Meriem, your last words or final tips
As I reflect on my journey and experiences, I’d like to share a few final thoughts. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and continue to pursue your passions with determination. It’s important to stay true to yourself and remain open to new experiences, even when they seem daunting. Remember to support and uplift those around you, as we all benefit from mutual encouragement and understanding. Keep learning, stay curious, and cherish the connections you make along the way.
Meriem Sayah
Interview conducted by Jaime William Mostacero Baca with – Meriem Sayah – Algeria
English language
Meriem Sayah Contact: Instagram – WhatsApp
Interview authorized in writing by Instagram – WhatsApp : Meriem Sayah – Perumira – Jaime William
All Rights Reserved in the name of Meriem Sayah – Perumira – Jaime William