Teen queen Carrisaa Bopanna is all praise for her alma mater, Indian School Al Ghubra, where she nurtured her dreams of fashion and glamour. It was here that she found the support and encouragement to give her dreams the wings to soar and take her yonder – to the title.

“I spent 10 years of my life studying in that prestigious institution, where I learned so much—not only academically, but also about respect for others. I formed amazing friendships…” Carissa told TAS Weekly, amidst her post-award functions.

Extending gratitude to the entire ISG family and teachers, she said, “They truly supported me and always believed that I will, someday, achieve the things I always spoke about and dreamt about. Truly proud to be an ISGian,” she mused.

The beauty pageant, held in Jaipur on April 17, showcased Carrisaa’s unique upbringing, bridging cultures between Oman and India, and shaping her into a symbol of cultural diversity and excellence. Currently pursuing fashion design at the prestigious National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Bengaluru, Carrisaa embodies a fusion of tradition and modernity, reflecting a global outlook.

Her victory not only celebrates her individual achievements but also underscores the inclusivity and diversity of India’s landscape, inspiring young women nationwide to pursue their dreams with passion and determination.

Describing the title win as an ‘absolute dream’, she recalls that it all stated a year ago when she sent her audition video and got chosen as a finalist. Following the nomination, she was required to undergo intense training for almost a year in various facets of the contest, including communication, speech, makeup and social etiquette among others. All of which, as Carrisaa puts it, “was a wonderful learning experience in shaping myself as a better individual.”

Beyond the glamour of the runway, Carrisaa is dedicated to sparking meaningful change, particularly in menstrual health and hygiene advocacy. She wants to alter the stigma surrounding menstruation and teach women that sanitary pads are not something to be ashamed of.

As she prepares to represent India at the global stage of Miss Teen Universe, Carrisaa’s journey embodies resilience, ambition, and cultural exchange.  

Read on to find out more about her dreams and aspirations.

Can you share your journey from Oman to the Miss Teen Universe India crown?

The journey has been nothing but amazing, joyful, and nerve-wracking. The passion that began for me in Oman pushed me to move to India and make that dream a reality. And I’m so grateful for all the opportunities I have got.

How has your upbringing in Oman influenced your personality and values?

⁠Oman is such a beautiful country with such hospitable people. Oman has taught me so much and I am so grateful to have been brought up in such a beautiful place.

What inspired you to compete for the title of Miss Teen Universe India?

My motivation for pageantry and modeling began since a very young age.  The world of fashion and glam always fascinated me; I always knew what I wanted to do in life and chose this path. And winning Miss Teen Universe India was such a roller coaster experience for me, as I had worked so hard for it. This particular title was the one I wanted to be crowned with as I felt most connected to it as an individual. And achieving what I dreamt of always makes me feel so very happy.

How do you feel about representing India on a global platform as Miss Teen Universe India 2024?

I cannot explain this feeling in words. Having India’s sash across my heart brings me so much pride. Representing India was always a goal, and now that it’s finally going to be true soon I’m so excited. As a proud Indian, I will make sure to give it my all and make my India, my home, proud.

Can you share any memorable experiences or challenges you encountered during the pageant?

The whole journey of Miss Teen Diva was a roller coaster ride. During every single session/round, we got to learn so much! And I definitely made friends of a lifetime. My most memorable moment was definitely after I got crowned as Miss Teen Universe India. All my friends ran to me and gave me such a tight hug and started screaming and cheering for me with no hate or toxicity but pure love. That moment, I literally just broke down seeing and feeling so much love from people who were my competitors. That truly is what sisterhood is about; we love and celebrate each other. We support each other at every step of the way. I was so grateful to have my girls at that moment.

As Miss Teen Universe India, what initiatives or causes are you passionate about promoting during your reign?

During my reign, I would definitely like to talk and promote more about menstrual hygiene as it is my advocacy as well. I remember distributing sanitary pads in my locality to underprivileged women, and they immediately said no or hid the pads. I want to change that and teach them that it’s a very normal thing; I want to educate them more about menstrual hygiene.

How do you plan to use your platform to inspire and empower young women, both in India and around the world?

Getting such a big platform like Miss Teen Diva is truly a blessing, as I can inspire young girls, not only from India but from around the globe, to believe in themselves. I feel our generation is scared to believe in themselves and take that one step forward. I want to tell them that they are beautiful, smart young individuals and should dream big and work hard towards their goals.

What advice would you give to aspiring beauty pageant contestants, especially those from Oman or similar backgrounds?

I would only like to say, believe in yourself; be confident and take that one step forward. It is truly an amazing experience where you get to learn so much…helps to shape yourself even more as an individual.

Lastly, what message would you like to convey to your supporters, family, and well-wishers in Oman and beyond?

I am so thankful to each and every one who supported me through my journey and constantly kept sending me their wishes and blessings. It truly means the world to me, and I hope I have made everyone who supported me proud!