From Beauty Pageants to Community Champions: Miss Arab USA's Mental Health Mission

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Meet Mariam Dabaja, Miss Arab USA runner-up and passionate mental health advocate, as she shares her inspiring journey from the pageant stage to championing mental health awareness in the Arab-American community. In this episode, Mariam opens up about navigating cultural expectations, breaking down stigmas, and using her platform to spark real change in Dearborn and beyond.

Discover how beauty pageants became a catalyst for social impact, the unique mental health challenges facing Arab and Muslim women, and practical steps for starting honest conversations about mental wellness in your own circles. Mariam’s story is a powerful example of how representation and advocacy can transform communities—one conversation at a time.

What You’ll Learn:

• The role of pageantry in empowering women and driving social change
• Overcoming cultural and religious barriers to mental health
• Tips for supporting loved ones struggling with mental health issues
• How to get involved in local mental health initiatives
• Mariam’s vision for a more open, supportive community

Want more inspiring stories from Dearborn and the Arab-American community?
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Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
02:15 – The Miss Arab USA Journey
08:30 – Breaking Mental Health Stigma
15:00 – Community Impact & Success Stories
23:45 – Advice for Young Women
30:10 – Looking Ahead: The Future of Advocacy

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This show was sponsored by:

-The Family Doc https://thefamilydocmi.com/

-Juice Box Juiceboxblend.com

-Holy Bowly http://www.myholybowly.com

-Wingfellas thewingfellas.com

-Hanley International Academy https://www.hanleyacademy.com

-Malek Al-Kabob malekalkabob.com

-Bayt Al Mocha https://baytalmocha.com/

-Chill Box https://www.chillboxstore.com/

-Royal Kabob https://www.royalkabob.com/

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