Naomi Mendez

Beauty with a Purpose

Naomi Mendez’s journey from being a fashion magazine cover model to becoming Miss Universe Paraguay showcases her resilience and dedication to empowering women. Overcoming numerous challenges, including a unique upbringing and starting a business abroad, she emphasizes the importance of mental and physical well-being through her Storm Cycling studio. As Miss Universe Paraguay, Naomi aims to inspire women globally, particularly in the Middle East, by promoting self-care, mental health, and the transformative power of sport and fitness.

Model: @Naomi_mendez_
Photographer: @mariahjelenak
Hair: @nebras.troudi
Special thanks coach: @lucelaniasierra
PR: @say__media

Q: Naomi, in 2023, your dream came true—you became the face of a fashion magazine cover. And now, in 2024, you're being congratulated on your victory in the Miss Universe Paraguay Competition. Can you tell us about your preparations for the beauty pageant and what it means to you to represent Paraguay on the international stage? What challenges did you have to overcome on the way to such success?

A: Representing Paraguay, the heart of South America, on the international stage is an immense honor. Paraguay is renowned for its beautiful and powerful women. This role is not just about physical beauty but also about showcasing the rich cultural heritage and strength of Paraguayan women. Working closely with my coach, Lu Sierra, we focus on various aspects, including walking and public speaking. My training regimen is rigorous but rewarding, encompassing daily workouts, rehearsals, and personal development sessions. My journey to this point has been marked by significant challenges and growth. Being raised by my Paraguayan grandparents while my single mother worked hard to provide for us was a unique upbringing that instilled resilience and determination in me. Moving to a new continent to start my business, Storm Cycling, which focuses on mental and physical health, was another major step requiring courage and vision. It was a leap into the unknown, but it was driven by a passion to inspire and support others, especially women, to achieve their dreams without limits. Winning Miss Universe Paraguay is a testament to turning pain into power, to embracing every part of my story and using it as a source of strength. This platform allows me to motivate women everywhere to dream big and work hard. Life has been my greatest teacher, and I am proud to share that every challenge faced has shaped me into the leader I am today. Representing Paraguay celebrates my unique journey, and I hope to inspire others by showing that no dream is too big if you are willing to work for it.

Q: You've said that one of your main goals in life is to help women in the Middle East focus on their mental and physical well-being. What do you think are the most pressing problems facing women in this region right now? And which ones are you personally striving to overcome?

A: Success and fulfillment are different pursuits. Success is achieving what you desire, while fulfillment is living in alignment with your true self. I have always admired the UAE and the local community, especially the women. Emirati women are among the most generous and strong individuals I have met. They bring vibrant energy to my cycling classes, and their strength and positivity inspire me every day. In today's world, there is immense pressure to succeed and to be the perfect mother, sister, wife, friend, and athlete. Social media often exacerbates this pressure by showcasing only the highlights of others' lives. It's easy to fall into the trap of comparison, forgetting that everyone has their own struggles. I also have days when I feel overwhelmed, but I encourage my clients to focus on their own journey. It’s important to draw inspiration from others while appreciating and being grateful for what we have. Fulfillment comes from the intangible aspects of life: discipline, self-love, genuine friendships, and loyalty. These are the true gems that enrich our lives. For me, Storm Cycling is a source of joy and fulfillment. It’s not just about physical fitness but also about nurturing mental health and building a supportive community. Patience is something I am constantly practicing. I believe that the universe will bring us what we are ready for at the right time. Life is not like the movies, where dreams come true in a matter of hours. We must have faith and continue to move forward, trusting in the journey. By focusing on our own growth and embracing the process, we can find true fulfillment and inspire others to do the same.

Q: What opportunities does being crowned a beauty queen open to the mission of supporting women in the Middle East? What specific steps will you take this year in this direction?

A: As Miss Universe Paraguay, I am committed to using this platform to uplift women and promote their well-being, not only in the Middle East where I live but also in my home country, Paraguay, and around the world. I will promote campaigns focused on mental and physical well-being, emphasizing the importance of self-care and mental health support. These campaigns will utilize social media, public speaking engagements, and community events to reach a broad audience. Through these initiatives, I aim to inspire people around the globe to move, exercise, and take care of their physical and mental health. Together, we can create a world where every woman feels empowered, supported, and capable of achieving greatness. Let us embrace the power of movement, self-care, and community to build a brighter, healthier future for everyone.

Q: You are an entrepreneur and the founder of Storm Cycling, which was named the best indoor cycling studio in Dubai by Fit Guide Global. What's special about your exercise bikes? How did you select the team for the project?

A: What sets Storm Cycling apart is not just the quality of our studio and people, but the entire experience we offer. Our 45-minute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions are therapeutic, conducted to the rhythm of uplifting music in a dark room. This environment helps you to focus on the intention of the class, allowing you to connect deeply with yourself and your goals. The true essence of Storm Cycling lies in our team. Selecting the right team for this project was crucial. Our team members have a people-first attitude and understand the importance of showing up with energy and dedication, no matter how they feel personally. This commitment stems from the understanding that each session can have a profound impact on someone's life. At Storm Cycling, we are more than just a fitness studio; we are a family. We support and uplift each other, creating a nurturing and motivating environment for everyone who walks through our doors. Our instructors are passionate and driven, knowing that their presence and energy can inspire and transform the lives of our clients. Every day, we aim to create a space where individuals can find not only physical fitness but also mental clarity and emotional strength.

The true essence of Storm Cycling lies in our team. Selecting the right team for this project was crucial. Our team members have a people-first attitude and understand the importance of showing up with energy and dedication, no matter how they feel personally

Q: What role do you think sport and fitness play in improving the lives of women in the world?

A: Sport and fitness play a transformative role in improving the lives of women around the world. Movement is everything. When you move your body, you can change your emotional state, and when you change your emotional state, you open up new possibilities for thinking and living. Engaging in physical activity allows you to connect with what truly matters and brings you into the present moment. For many of us, it is the greatest form of therapy. I remember running 15 kilometers when my grandfather passed away; it was this movement that helped me heal the most. Through physical activity, we find a powerful outlet for our emotions and a way to navigate the challenges life throws at us. When I am feeling sad, it is my cycling classes that I need the most. I have cried on my bike, laughed on my bike, and found it to be my greatest therapy. Sport and fitness provide a sanctuary where women can build strength, resilience, and confidence. It is a space where we can break free from societal pressures and focus on our well-being. By staying active, we not only improve our physical health but also our mental and emotional health. We become more present, more grounded, and more capable of handling life's ups and downs. No matter what happens in life, remember to keep moving forward.