SINGAPORE | Aiko Sarker

My name is Nina Sarker but I would like be known as Aiko Sarker. I am a 26-year-old with a  finance profession with a diverse background, being of mixed Bangladeshi and Indonesian Chinese heritage. I like to read and write, try out new things and volunteering as and when I can. I balance between a dynamic career in finance with a commitment to community service and a love for literature and nature. I love to cook and serve my food to people, it makes me feel whole when they feel full. I believe in giving and doing good, trusting that positivity will come back in return. I am known to my friends and family to be soft-spoken and a gentle nature. I am always filled with giggles and find the simple joys in life that makes me happy, such as indulging in food from various culture. I used to play a lot of sports growing up until they found out that I should be cautious and stop taking part in rough sports like basketball and floorball due to my kidney atrophy.

Not long after, I had a tumor growing on my right neck and they said it might be cancer at 23. I was devastated. After many months of testing, fine needle work and removal of the tumor to see if it’s benign or not, I was blessed to be told that it is benign.
Living with one kidney and having that cancer scare has taught me the true meaning of resilience and gratitude. Every day is a reminder of the incredible strength and adaptability of the human body. Life may come with challenges, but with the right mindset, nothing can hold us back. Here’s to living fully and appreciating every moment! I am here to share and let others learn from my experiences and setbacks and I am ready to represent my country, Singapore at Miss Elite World 2024.