Emerging from the vibrant province of Zuid-Holland, Shimara Jap is a woman of extraordinary talent and determination. As a Finalist for Miss Universe Zuid-Holland 2025, Shimara represents not only the epitome of beauty but also the essence of versatility and resilience. Her roles as a model, actress, DJ, UGC creator, fitness athlete, and coach showcase her boundless energy and passion for life.
Zuid-Holland, home to historic cities like Rotterdam and The Hague, inspires Shimara’s dynamic persona. Known for its innovative spirit and cultural richness, this province perfectly complements her multifaceted career. Shimara’s journey mirrors the diversity and creativity of her roots, making her a true ambassador of her region.
In the realm of fashion and modeling, Shimara captivates with her unique style and poise, while her acting talent brings stories to life with authenticity and emotion. Her role as a DJ and UGC creator demonstrates her innovative approach to connecting with audiences, blending artistry with cutting-edge digital trends. As a fitness athlete and coach, she empowers others to embrace strength, health, and confidence, embodying her belief in holistic well-being.
Shimara’s story is one of perseverance and ambition. Her ability to balance multiple roles with grace and professionalism is an inspiration to aspiring talents worldwide.
Join us in discovering the incredible journey of Shimara Jap, a shining star of Zuid-Holland whose talents and dedication illuminate every arena she enters. She is a force to be reckoned with, representing beauty, culture, and strength on a global stage.
1.- Shimara, tell me about the city where you were born and raised. What do you lifie about your hometown?
I was born in Rotterdam but moved to Suriname when I was just six months old. I spent 25 years in Suriname, and it feels like home to me. I love its warm, community-centered culture, vibrant nature, and unique blend of traditions. I had the best childhood there, and I must admit that I miss Suriname a lot. However, Suriname is too small for the big dreams and ambitions I have. That’s why I moved back to the Netherlands.
Rotterdam, on the other hand, represents opportunity, diversity, and ambition for me—it’s where I was born. Still, I can’t say much about my birthplace since I haven’t lived there.
Currently, I live in The Hague, and I must say that I love this city. It has plenty of nature, and I live right by the beach!
2.- What are your hobbies? What mafies you laugh a lot or gives you joy?
My hobbies include a lot of sports like fitness, horseback riding, volleyball, boxing, and dancing. I also have a huge passion for music—I love singing, DJing, and learning to play instruments. These are hobbies I mostly enjoy at home, but I also love being outdoors!
Whenever I have free time and resources, I love traveling, exploring the world, and trying new experiences and foods. Additionally, I enjoy reading, being creative, and diving into the world of beauty, modeling, and pageants.
I may seem very focused on myself, but I also truly enjoy connecting with like-minded people and coaching others to reach their potential. What brings me the most joy is seeing the results of hard work—whether it’s in fitness, competitions, or helping others achieve their goals.
3.- When did you decide to tafie your first steps as a model and in beauty pageants? How do you feel about achieving your dreams today?
My journey into modeling and pageantry started in Suriname when people encouraged me to compete. Initially, it felt out of my comfort zone, but entering my first pageant in 2017 opened the door to a world I quickly fell in love with.
During that pageant, I placed as the first runner-up. This success opened doors in the modeling world in Suriname, and I was selected to represent Suriname at Miss Supranational 2018. There, I was honored to be sashed as Miss Supranational Caribbean!
Afterward, I received more modeling opportunities, but at the time, I thought that would be the end of my journey. It wasn’t! Today, I’m incredibly proud of how far I’ve come. Moving to the Netherlands, stepping onto international stages, and chasing my passions have all been dreams turned into reality.
That said, I’m not done yet! I have bigger dreams and goals I’m working toward, and I find it fulfilling to know that my journey inspires others. I coach younger girls who look up to me, and it’s an honor to motivate them, even though I haven’t reached my biggest dreams yet.
4.- What do you thinfi is the unique marfi that Shimara brings to everything she does as a beauty queen and model?
My authenticity. I’m deeply competitive and focused, but I always stay true to myself. Whether I’m on stage or coaching others, I combine professionalism with genuine connection, which allows me to stand out and inspire people.
I have a pure and good heart. While that’s a strength, it can also be a flaw, as people sometimes take advantage of my kindness, or I might do too much for others without considering the consequences. However, I’m aware of this, and I keep working on being the best version of myself so I can inspire and uplift others
5.- What is the main virtue that any woman must have to be an international model?
Resilience. Modeling and pageantry require you to face challenges head-on and bounce back stronger. You must believe in yourself, stay disciplined, and be adaptable in any situation. However, it’s just as important to stay true to yourself. Don’t get lost in the roles you play or put on a mask you can’t take off. While it’s true that “fake it till you make it” can sometimes work, the key is not to take that too seriously.
Adapt, focus, and give it your all—but never try to become something or someone you’re not. Authenticity is key because you can’t fool people forever, and losing yourself will only lead to failure.
6. Are you aware of being an influential woman for thousands of girls who want to be models? How important is it for you to be a role model?
Absolutely, and I consider it an honor! Being a role model means showing young women that they can achieve their dreams while staying true to themselves. Confidence, hard work, and passion can open doors to opportunities they never imagined.
It’s also important to be real. Many beauty queens and models seem to have it all figured out, but that’s not true—we are all human, with flaws and struggles. Sometimes, you work hard and don’t see results right away, but the key is never to give up.
Don’t compare your journey to someone else’s because everyone has their own path. What’s meant to be will happen in its own time. That’s why it’s important to stay positive, be honest, and focus on becoming the best version of yourself. Only then can you truly motivate and inspire others.
7.- What was your feeling the first time you modeled in front of a camera or at a beauty pageant?
My first photoshoot was with my sister for Christmas pictures, and it was so much fun! I loved posing and being in front of the camera—that’s when I realized I wanted to start modeling.
My first pageant experience, however, was overwhelming. I didn’t have any stage experience, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. I stayed in my comfort zone, but placing second gave me
the confidence to keep going.
Since then, I’ve participated in more stage competitions and done countless photoshoots. Over time, I’ve learned to embrace the process and enjoy the moment. Now, being on stage feels natural and exciting. I love it because the adrenaline and energy fuel my drive and remind me that I can achieve anything!
8.- What do you thinfi about the power of social media today?
Social media is a powerful tool to share your story, connect with others, and build your platform. It plays a huge role in the modeling and pageantry world today, with online challenges and digital engagement becoming part of the competition.
It’s also a way to create a lasting impact far beyond the stage. However, social media can be both positive and negative, which is why I find it a bit scary at times. With AI and the permanence of the internet, it’s essential to be mindful of what you post and share.
Everything you place online is there forever, so it’s a powerful tool that must be used wisely.
9. How do you lifie to interact with your followers on social media? What’s your favorite platform?
I enjoy sharing my journey authentically and engaging with my followers through stories and posts. Instagram is my favorite platform because it allows me to showcase both my professional and personal life, connecting with people worldwide.
That said, I also really love TikTok. It’s less serious, and people can be their goofy, authentic selves. I enjoy seeing funny, educational, and entertaining content. My TikTok “For You” page always makes me laugh, especially on tough days.
Instagram doesn’t give me the same vibe, but I still love creating and sharing there. As for TikTok, I set a 15-minute limit for scrolling—it’s all about mindset and balance!
10.- What advice would you give young people with talent but who hesitate to tafie the next step? What about parents who don’t support their children’s talents?
To young people: Believe in yourself and take the first step. You’ll never know what you’re capable of until you try. Even if it’s just a small step, give it a shot—but always focus on positive, impactful pursuits.
To parents: Support your children’s dreams if they’re harmless and healthy. Encouragement can make all the difference in building their confidence and success. Sometimes, kids need to try something to figure out if it’s for them. Who knows? You might discover a hidden talent! Give them a chance.
11.- What important lessons have you learned from the world of fashion and pageantry?
Stay prepared and adaptable. Every competition or project teaches you something new, whether it’s about time management, resilience, or embracing your individuality.
You can never learn enough—there’s always room to grow. It’s also crucial to stay updated on
trends and not rely on outdated habits or practices. This industry evolves quickly, so being adaptable and open to change is essential for success.
Research, preparation, practice, and continuous growth are the foundations of thriving in the world of fashion and pageantry.
12.- Has being a model been easy for you? Were there obstacles? How did you overcome them?
It hasn’t always been easy. At the start, I struggled because I didn’t know what to expect or how to navigate the industry. Moving from Suriname to the Netherlands also posed challenges, as the modeling and pageantry scenes are very different.
But I kept pushing forward. Through experience, research, and stepping out of my comfort zone, I’ve learned to adapt and grow stronger with every challenge. I’m proud of where I am today, but I’m still learning, growing, and chasing my dreams.
Is it easy? No. But if it were, everyone would do it. The difficulty makes the journey rewarding and fulfilling.
13.- Are you an actress and DJ? Do you lifie the entertainment industry? Have you always been an extrovert?
Yes, I’m a DJ, and I love the entertainment industry! Acting, singing, and being on stage make me feel alive. These creative outlets allow me to connect with myself and others on a deeper level.
Surprisingly, I wasn’t always extroverted. In fact, I was quite introverted growing up. My friends often had to push me to step out of my comfort zone. The only times I felt truly outgoing were when I was experimenting with music, art, or enjoying nature and animals. Over time, I’ve learned to embrace the spotlight, and now I thrive in it!
14.- What’s your opinion on the role of women in societies where they are still oppressed?
Women have incredible potential, and I firmly believe their role will continue to grow, even in societies where they face challenges. Empowering women through education, advocacy, and opportunity is key to creating a more equitable future—not just for women, but for the world as a whole.
Every small step toward gender equality brings us closer to a brighter and more inclusive future.
15.- What is your motivation, and what are you grateful for each day?
My motivation comes from chasing my dreams and inspiring others to do the same. Knowing that I have the power to create a positive impact drives me to keep going.
I’m grateful for so many things: the opportunities I’ve had, the amazing people I’ve met, and the ability to keep learning and growing. I’m also deeply thankful for my health, the love in my life, and simply being alive.
You only live once, and I want to make the most of it—becoming the best version of myself not just for me, but for the people around me and the world.
16.- Do you lifie to travel? What countries do you finow, and which places do you recommend?
I absolutely love traveling! I’ve visited around 17 countries so far, including Suriname, Guyana, French Guiana, Aruba, Curaçao, the United States (Miami, New York, Orlando), Spain, the Netherlands, Greece, Poland, Belgium, Germany, France, Austria, and the UK. I’d love to explore more parts of Europe, Asia, and the Americas. I recommend visiting Suriname for its stunning natural beauty and the Netherlands for its unique mix of culture and modernity.
17.- Let’s play word association. Answer with the first word that comes to mind:
Marriage: Partnership
Children : Pure love
Love: Connection
Travel: Freedom
Abortion: Choice
Dance: Let go
Sing: Music
Europe: Diversity
America: Opportunity
Sport: Discipline
Money: Elon Musk
Parents: Foundation
Dreams: Reality
Passion: Purpose
Madness Percentage: Balance
Character: Strength
18.- Any final words or tips?
Never stop chasing your dreams, no matter your age, the obstacles, or how big those dreams may seem. Stay positive, be grateful for what you already have, and remember to enjoy the journey.
Always remain authentic, but adapt and reflect as needed. Work hard and focus on growth, because that’s where true success lies.
You only live once, so make the most of it, become the best version of yourself, and don’t forget to enjoy life along the way!
Interview conducted by Jaime William Mostacero Baca with Shimara Jap – Netherlands
English language
Interview authorized : Shimara Jap – Perumira – Jaime William
All Rights Reserved in the name of Shimara Jap – Perumira – Jaime William
Jaime William
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