SUMAIRA AHMED

ABOUT SUMAIRA

Sumaira Ahmed made history as the first-ever Miss Bangladesh US in 2015, marking the inception of the Miss Bangladesh US Organization. During her reign, Sumaira passionately advocated for equal educational opportunities for Bangladeshi children, aiming to increase global tolerance and bolster Bangladesh's international presence.

Beyond pageantry, Sumaira is a multifaceted talent. A classically trained Kathak dancer, she has graced prestigious stages worldwide, including Madison Square Garden and the Kodak Theatre. She also pursued a career in acting and modeling in Southeast Asia, showcasing her versatility and love for the arts.

In 2014, Sumaira’s life took a pivotal turn when she was diagnosed with sero-negative neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), a rare autoimmune disease. This life-altering diagnosis fueled her mission to create a lasting impact. Less than two months later, she founded The Sumaira Foundation (TSF) to raise awareness, support research, and provide advocacy for NMOSD and MOGAD patients worldwide. What began as a personal mission has, over the past decade, grown into a global initiative spanning six continents and transforming countless lives.

Sumaira’s tireless advocacy work has earned her significant recognition, including the WEGO Health “Best Kept Secret” Award in 2021. Her story has been featured in the Wall Street Journal and the Emmy Award-winning PBS show Medical Stories.

Sumaira’s journey from the pageant stage to global advocacy exemplifies resilience, purpose, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Her legacy as the first Miss Bangladesh US is a testament to the power of using one’s platform to inspire change.

Follow Sumaira on Instagram: @sumairaflower