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Neelam Verma, Miss Canadian Universe 2002, in her national costume by Bobby and Sally Ackbarali.
The costume represents two distinctly Canadian things. The first is the changing of the leaves in the autumn, where the greens turn to vibrant golds, oranges, reds and yellows. Secondly, it embodies the principles of the multicultural spectrum of our country. Canada has been recognized as one of the most multicultural nations on earth, and now, more than ever, Canada is home to people from every corner of the globe. In Neelam's hometown of Toronto alone, newspapers in over 130 languages are published. This magnificent costume celebrates this dual diversity hand-in-hand.
Over one thousand fabric leaves and many thousands of beads adorn the outfit, which will be worn at the Miss Universe 2002 National Costume show in Santurce, Puerto Rico on May 21.
Photo courtesy of Bobby Ackbarali. GO NEELAM GO!