At just 19, Kaziah Liz Mejo has already carved out a remarkable place for herself in the world of pageantry. The Kerala-born model and law student has been crowned Miss Universe India 2026, defeating 52 other contestants at the national finale held in Jaipur on Sunday.With the victory, Mejo will now represent India at the 75th Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico in November. Her win is significant not only because of her age but also because she has become the first Keralite to win the Miss Universe India title.
Who is Kaziah Liz Mejo?
Kaziah Liz Mejo hails from Mavelikkara, Kerala, but spent much of her childhood in Abu Dhabi, UAE. She studied at Emirates National School, St. Joseph’s School, and Abu Dhabi Indian School before pursuing higher education.She is currently studying law while also building a career as a model. Her academic journey has continued alongside her growing involvement in pageantry, making education an important part of her profile.However, Mejo’s interests extend well beyond academics and modelling. She has trained in classical dance for 12 years and is also associated with music, public speaking, and acting. She can sing and play the drums and violin, reflecting a wide range of interests developed from an early age.She also made her acting debut in the Malayalam film Shylock.
Mejo wins national title in a competitive finale
Mejo emerged on top of a field of 53 contestants at the Miss Universe India 2026 finale. Vaishnavi Gannesh of Tamil Nadu was named the first runner-up, while Anushri Satavlekar of Gujarat finished as the second runner-up and won the Miss International India 2026 title.The finale was judged by prominent names from the Indian pageant world. Former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen led the jury, with former Miss Universe India winners Urvashi Rautela and Celina Jaitley also serving on the panel.
From law student to India’s global representative
Mejo’s biggest challenge now lies ahead. She will travel to Puerto Rico in November to compete at the 75th Miss Universe pageant.For the young law student, the international contest will be another test of her communication skills, confidence, and ability to perform under pressure. Her journey, from school in Abu Dhabi to the national crown in Jaipur has already been marked by persistence and versatility.At 19, Kaziah Liz Mejo is now preparing to take that journey to the world’s biggest pageant stage, carrying both her Kerala roots and India’s hopes with her.
