In this in-depth interview with Perumira, we get to know Rafi Blom, finalist of Miss Progress Netherlands 2026 — a woman whose story revolves around identity, authenticity, and meaningful impact. Born in Haiti and raised in the Netherlands, Rafi has lived her entire life between different worlds. This sense of displacement did not weaken her; instead, it shaped her into an empathetic, conscious, and resilient woman with a strong inner core.
Rafi finds her freedom and joy in creative expression. Dance, music, acting, and writing are not merely hobbies for her, but powerful ways to express her truth. She draws strength from genuine connections, honest conversations, and moments when people dare to be themselves — without masks.
Her step into the world of modeling and beauty pageants did not come from a desire for recognition, but from a deeper need for purpose and self-expression. Being a finalist does not feel like an endpoint to her, but rather an alignment between who she is on the inside and what she presents to the world. Rafi does not see influence as status, but as responsibility: an opportunity to give visibility to stories that are often unheard.
What truly sets her apart is her depth. Rafi does not stand for surface-level beauty, but for strength in vulnerability, awareness, and transformation. Through her presence, she creates space for dialogue, recognition, and growth — showing that true beauty emerges when authenticity and inner strength come together.
1.- Rafi, tell me about the city where you were born and raised. What do you like about your hometown?
I was born in Haiti, and although I grew up in the Netherlands, my sense of home has always been more complex.
I don’t fully see the Netherlands as my home. I often feel a deep longing for a place that resembles my country of origin a culture, a rhythm of life, a warmth that feels closer to who I am at my core.
Returning to Haiti is not an option for me, simply because it is not safe. If it were safe, I would go back without hesitation.
Living between worlds has shaped me profoundly. It has made me sensitive to displacement, to identity, and to the quiet grief of not fully belonging anywhere but also to resilience, empathy and inner strength.
2.- What are your hobbies? What makes you laugh or gives you pleasure?
What truly brings me joy is creative expression in all its forms.
I love movement, music and storytelling whether that’s dancing, acting, writing or simply being present with people I love. Creativity is where I feel free, grounded and most myself.
I also find joy in meaningful conversations, moments of laughter with my family.
What makes me laugh is authenticity, people who dare to be themselves, who don’t pretend, who show vulnerability or humor without trying too hard.
3.- Miss Progress Netherlands 2026 finalist. When did you decide to take your first steps in modeling and beauty pageants? How do you feel about achieving your dreams, your passions, and being a recognized female influencer today?
My journey into modeling and pageantry didn’t begin with a dream of recognition it began with a need for expression and purpose.
For a long time, my focus was on survival, healing and finding my own voice. Stepping into the world of modeling and pageantry came later, when I finally allowed myself to be seen not as perfection, but as truth.
Becoming a finalist of Miss Progress Netherlands 2026 feels less like “arriving” and more like aligning. Aligning who I am on the inside with what I show to the world.
I don’t see influence as status. I see it as responsibility. If my visibility allows even one woman to feel less alone, more heard, or more empowered to speak her truth, then this journey already has meaning.
My passions have never been about applause they’ve always been about impact. And this platform allows me to turn lived experience into purpose.
4.- What do you think is Rafi’s distinctive, unique stamp in every activity you do as a beauty queen and model?
What defines me is authenticity rooted in lived experience. I don’t step into a room to perform perfection, I step in as someone who has learned, survived, reflected, and chosen growth.
My signature lies in depth. Whether I’m modeling, speaking, or representing a platform, I bring intention, emotional intelligence, and awareness of the bigger picture. I am not interested in surface-level beauty; I am interested in meaning, connection, and transformation.
As a beauty queen and model, I consciously use my presence to create safety, dialogue, and visibility, especially for stories that are often ignored or misunderstood.
I believe true impact comes when strength and vulnerability coexist. That balance, grounded, feminine, honest, and purposeful is what I consistently bring into everything I do.
5.- What is the most important virtue every woman must have to be an international model?
I believe the most important virtue is authentic strength, the strength to stay true to yourself in a world that constantly tries to shape you.
Being an international model is not only about appearance, but about character. You face pressure, judgment, cultural differences and expectations from all sides. Without inner strength, it is easy to lose yourself. With it, you learn how to stand firm, set boundaries, and still remain open, kind and respectful.
For me, strength also means resilience: turning challenges into growth, using your voice with purpose, and understanding that your worth is not defined by approval, numbers or titles. An international model represents more than beauty, she represents values, responsibility and impact. That is why inner strength, combined with authenticity and compassion, is the foundation of everything.
6.- Are you aware that you’re an influential woman for thousands of girls who aspire to be models? How important is it for you to be an idol for so many girls and teenagers?
Yes, I am very aware of that responsibility, and I carry it with great care.
Being a role model is not about being perfect, it is about being honest, visible and real. I know that many girls and teenagers look up to women they see online or on stage, and that is exactly why I choose to show more than just the polished image. I want them to see strength, vulnerability, resilience and self-respect.
If my journey can show even one girl that she does not have to fit into a mold, that her voice matters, and that she is allowed to take up space exactly as she is, then that already means everything to me.
I believe influence should be used to uplift, not to pressure. To encourage girls to believe in themselves, to trust their intuition, and to understand that their value is never dependent on external validation. If I can be that example, then I am proud to take on that role.
7.- What were your feelings the first time you modeled for a video camera? What were your feelings the first time you participated in a beauty pageant?
The first time I stood in front of a video camera, I felt vulnerable and exposed. I was very aware of how I looked, how I moved, how I sounded. There was excitement, but also insecurity that feeling of being seen without knowing yet how to fully stand in my own power.
My first beauty pageant experience was similar. It was overwhelming, intense, and emotional. I felt pressure, nerves, and moments of doubt, but also something else: a spark. A realization that this was not just about appearance, but about presence, confidence, and learning to trust myself under pressure.
Over time, those feelings changed. What once felt scary slowly became empowering. I learned that confidence is not something you have from the start it is something you build by showing up, again and again, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Those first moments taught me resilience. They taught me that growth happens exactly where fear and courage meet. And that lesson still guides me today.
8.- What do you think about the power of social media today?
Social media has an enormous influence today, it can shape opinions, create movements, and give people a voice they might otherwise never have had. Used in the right way, it is a powerful tool for awareness, connection, and change.
At the same time, I believe social media comes with responsibility. It can inspire, but it can also harm if it is used without honesty or care. That is why I consciously choose to use my platforms to speak about real issues, share meaningful stories, and show both strength and vulnerability.
For me, social media is not about perfection or performance. It is about authenticity, impact, and reaching people who need to feel seen or heard. If even one person feels less alone or more empowered because of something I shared, then social media has served its true purpose.
9.- How do you like to interact with your followers on social media? What’s your favorite social media platform?
I like to connect with my followers in an open, honest and respectful way. I don’t see social media as a one-way street, but as a space for real connection. I value conversations, messages, and interactions where people feel safe to share their thoughts or experiences.
I try to be approachable and authentic not only showing the highlights, but also the reality behind them. That honesty creates trust, and trust is the foundation of any meaningful community.
My favorite platform is Instagram, because it allows me to combine visual storytelling with depth. Through posts, stories and direct messages, I can share my advocacy, creativity and personal journey while staying close to the people who follow and support me.
10.- What advice would you give to talented young people who don’t dare to take the next step? What advice would you give to parents who don’t support their children’s talents?
To young people, I would say: your talent exists for a reason. Fear, doubt and insecurity are part of the journey, they don’t mean you’re incapable, they mean you care. Don’t wait until you feel “ready” or until someone gives you permission. The next step doesn’t have to be big; it just has to be honest. You will learn as you go. You don’t need to be perfect, you just need to begin.
To parents, I would say: never underestimate the power of your support. You don’t have to fully understand your child’s talent in order to take it seriously. A child who feels seen and supported doesn’t just develop their skills, but also confidence, resilience and self-worth. Even when the path feels uncertain, your belief can be the difference between giving up and continuing. Sometimes, believing in your child is the greatest gift you can give.
11.- What important lessons have you learned from the fashion world and beauty pageants?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that the fashion world and beauty pageants are not just about appearance, they are about resilience, discipline and self-awareness. You are constantly being seen, judged and compared, and that forces you to develop a strong inner foundation.
I’ve learned the importance of staying true to myself in an environment that can easily push you to fit into a mold. Trends change, standards change, but authenticity lasts. When you know who you are and why you are there, you don’t lose yourself in external validation.
Another important lesson is professionalism. Showing up prepared, respectful and consistent matters just as much as talent. And finally, I’ve learned that real confidence doesn’t come from being flawless, but from embracing your story including your struggles and still choosing to stand tall.
12.- Was modeling easy for Rafi? Were there any obstacles? How did you overcome them?
Becoming a model was not easy for me. There were many obstacles, both external and internal. I did not grow up in an environment where modelling or self-expression felt safe or encouraged, and that leaves marks on how you see yourself.
One of the biggest challenges was learning to take up space without apologizing for who I am. The industry can be demanding and sometimes unforgiving, especially when you don’t fit into a narrow standard. I also had to overcome fear, fear of being judged, rejected, or misunderstood.
I overcame these obstacles by choosing perseverance over perfection. I focused on growth instead of comparison. Step by step, I learned to trust my body, my presence and my voice. Healing, self-reflection and surrounding myself with the right people helped me move forward.
Today, I see those obstacles not as weaknesses, but as the very things that shaped my strength and depth as a woman and as a role model.
13.- Have you thought about becoming an actress? Do you enjoy the entertainment industry?
Yes, I have definitely thought about becoming an actress. Acting has always been a form of expression that feels very natural to me. It allows me to tell stories, explore emotions and give a voice to experiences that are often left unseen or unheard.
What I appreciate about the entertainment industry is its power to influence, inspire and create awareness. When used consciously, film, theater and media can open conversations, challenge perspectives and touch people on a deep emotional level. At the same time, I am also very aware of the challenges within the industry. That is why authenticity and integrity are important to me. I don’t just want to be visible, I want to contribute meaningfully.
For me, acting is not about fame, but about impact. It’s another way to connect with people and to use creativity as a tool for change.
14.- Globally, women have gained a greater role, even though there are societies where they are still abused. What is your opinion on the future role of women in these societies?
I believe the future must be shaped by women being fully seen as human beings with equal rights, equal safety, and equal power to choose their own lives.
Yes, women have gained visibility and influence, but progress is not the same everywhere, and even in “modern” countries violence against women is still a reality. That tells me we don’t just need inspiration we need protection, education, accountability, and systems that truly listen.
In the future, I want to see a world where women don’t have to prove their worth, fight to be believed, or live in fear in their own homes. A society is not truly developed if half of its people are still unsafe. Real progress means women can live freely in their bodies, their voices, their dreams without punishment for simply being a woman.
15.- Rafi, what motivates you and what are you grateful for every day?
My motivation comes from turning pain into purpose. I carry a deep drive to create meaning from what I’ve lived through and what I’ve witnessed and to use my voice for women who feel unheard or unsafe. My advocacy, We End Femicide Now, is not just a project to me. It’s a mission. It’s about awareness, prevention, and making sure we listen before it’s too late.
Every day, I’m grateful for the people who truly love me and for the strength to keep going even on hard days. I’m grateful for growth, for the chance to learn, and for the opportunity to stand on a platform where my message can reach others.
And I’m grateful that I get to be part of something bigger than myself, something that can help save lives.
16.- Rafi, do you enjoy traveling? Which countries have you visited? Which other countries would you like to explore, and which places do you recommend visiting from your home country?
I worked as a flight attendant for 15 years, so traveling has always been a fundamental part of my life. For me, traveling represents freedom not being caged, having space, air, movement, and perspective. It gives me room to breathe, both physically and emotionally.
I truly miss traveling, because it connects me to who I am at my core. Being in the air, crossing borders, and entering different worlds always gave me a deep sense of liberation.
If there is one country I would wholeheartedly recommend, it is Cuba. The first time I arrived there, it felt as if I came home instantly. The energy, the people, the rhythm of life, everything resonated with me on a very deep level. Israel also feels like home to me, but for a different reason. That connection is deeply rooted in my personal background and identity. It is a place that carries meaning, history, and emotional depth for me.
Travel, for me, is not about luxury or distance. It is about belonging, freedom, and remembering who you are beyond borders.
17.- You and me (Jaime William) are going to play ping pong, I tell you a word and you respond with another word that comes to mind.
– Huwelijk Commitment
– Kinderen. Miracle
– Liefde. Truth
– Reizen. Freedom
– Abortus. Choice
– Dansen. Release
– Zingen. Expression
– Europa. History
– Amerika. Slavery
– Sport. Discipline
– Geld. Tool
– Ouders. Foundation
– Dromen. Opportunity
– Passie. Fire
– Waanzin Percentage Necessary
– Karakter. Integrity
18.- Rafi, your last words or last tips
My final words are simple: listen to your intuition and don’t silence yourself to fit in. Your voice matters, especially when it’s feels uncomfortable. Change never comes from perfection, it comes from courage. Be brave enough to stand, speak and choose yourself.
Interview conducted by Jaime William Mostacero Baca with Rafi Blom – Haiti
English language
Interview authorized : Rafi Blom – Perumira – Jaime William
All Rights Reserved in the name of Rafi Blom – Perumira – Jaime William
About Me
Jaime William
🔷 Comunicador y Marketing Digital
🔷 Piloto Profesional DGAC
🔷 2o Lugar Honorario 2013 : Presidencia del Consejo de Ministros - Presidente de la República - Concurso "Tramite de Mas" Experto en Proyectos.
🔷 Premio "Cesar Vallejo" 2024 - UHE Unión Hispanomundial de Escritores - Excelencia Empresarial de Perumira Global Talent
🔷 Premio "Paloma de Oro" 2024 - Director Internacional Perumira
🔷 CEO de Perumira Global Talent Magazine: Entrevistas a señoritas, reinas de belleza y modelos destacadas de todo el mundo. Entrevistas a talentos y profesionales de todo el mundo
🔷 TOP Entrevistas a Finalistas de:
- Miss Universe Canada 2020
- Miss World Costa Rica 2020
- Miss World Canada 2022
- Miss World Uruguay 2022
- Miss Sudamerica Lima Sur 2023 Peru
- Miss Continental Spain 2023
- Miss Galicia Intercontinental 2023
- Miss Intercontinental Spain 2023
- Miss Universe Denmark 2023
- Miss Globe Spain 2023
- Mrs Galaxy Australia 2024
- Miss Planet International 2024
- Reina Nacional de la Revolucion Argentina 2024 7ma Edicion
- Reina Nacional de la Revolucion Argentina 2024 8va Edicion
- Miss Beauty of Utrecht 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Beauty of Overijssel 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Beauty of Friesland 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Beauty of Gelderland 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Beauty of Flevoland 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Beauty of Groningen 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Beauty of Limburg 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Beauty of Noord-Brabant 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Beauty of Zeeland 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Teen of Noord-Holland 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Teen of Groningen 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Teen Limburg 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Teen of Flevoland 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Teen of Friesland 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Teen Gelderland 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Teen of Noord-Brabant 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Teen of Utrecht 2025 Netherlands
- Miss South Holland Teen 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Universe Gelderland 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Universe Limburg 2025 Netherlands
- Miss Universe North Holland 2025 Countries Netherlands
- Miss Universe Utrecht 2025
- Miss Universe Zealand 2025
- Miss Aura Netherlands 2025
- Australia Galaxy Pageants 2025
- Miss Grand Cádiz 2025 Spain
- Miss Grand Córdoba 2025 Spain
- Miss Grand Euskadi 2025 Spain
- Miss Grand Málaga 2025 Spain
- Miss Teen Valencia 2026 Spain
- Miss Peace International 2026
- Miss Friesland Teen 2026 Netherlands
- Miss Groningen Teen 2026 Netherlands
- Miss Friesland 2026 Netherlands
- Miss Groningen 2026 Netherlands
- Miss Aura Netherlands 2026
🔷 Escritor - Autor de Amazon de:
✅ Poesía (Un Trozito de Poesia)
✅ Historia (Zaña Colonial)
✅ Educación (Des-Enredando la Educación)
🔷 Especialista en SEO
🔷 Columnista de Multimedios Puntocero. Yo Radio Argentina
🔷 Community Manager y creador de contenidos desde 2011.
Perumira Global Talent Magazine is an international publication celebrating beauty, art, and empowerment through exclusive interviews with top models, beauty queens, and creative professionals from around the world. For over 11 years, Perumira has been a stage where talent meets inspiration — sharing authentic stories, achievements, and experiences that redefine success and elegance.
Founded with a passion for storytelling and cultural diversity, Perumira connects readers across continents, showcasing rising stars and established icons who lead with creativity, intelligence, and heart. From the glamour of global pageants and fashion runways to the voices of empowered women transforming industries, the magazine highlights authenticity, resilience, and purpose.
More than a magazine, Perumira is a global movement that promotes visibility, confidence, and innovation in every form of talent. With a growing English and Spanish audience, Perumira continues to inspire new generations to believe in their dreams, embrace their identity, and shine on their own stage — because every story deserves to be seen and celebrated.