Rima Fakih

Rima Fakih is a Lebanese-American model, philanthropist, former professional wrestler, and beauty pageant titleholder who made history in 2010 by becoming the first Arab-American woman to win the Miss USA title. Born on September 22, 1985, in Srifa, Lebanon, she immigrated to the United States with her family in 1993. Settling in Dearborn, Michigan, a hub for Arab Americans, Fakih pursued higher education at the University of Michigan–Dearborn, earning a degree in business management. Before her pageant success, she worked at the Detroit Medical Center, focusing on community development and recruitment within the Arab-American community .

Following her Miss USA victory, Fakih expanded her career into professional wrestling, participating in the fifth season of WWE Tough Enough. She also became involved in various philanthropic endeavors, including serving as a spokeswoman for breast and ovarian cancer education, and working with organizations like Best Buddies International and the Children's Cancer Center in Lebanon. In 2018, she took on the role of National Director and Executive Producer for the Miss Lebanon/Miss Universe organization, aiming to empower Arab women and promote cultural representation .

Fakih's life and work are characterized by a commitment to breaking barriers and advocating for diversity. She has expressed sentiments such as, "Everyone should be proud of who they are and where they come from because America is a big melting pot of diverse ethnicities" . Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility, stating, "I went out with some old friends and we were having fun. A couple of them were very intoxicated. When I went to leave, I refused to let them drive. So when I got pulled over, I was the driver" . Through her actions and words, Fakih continues to inspire individuals to embrace their identities and contribute positively to society.