Ivonn Novikova

Height: 5’10
Hometown: Toronto, ON
Languages: English, French
Occupation: Marketing Manager

From her earliest days, Ivonn Novikova learned the value of hard work and education from her mother, the most influential person in her life. Growing up in a bilingual school environment and finishing at the top of her class, Ivonn was deeply influenced by her mother’s belief in the power of education for women and girls. Despite not having opportunities for higher education herself, her mother worked tirelessly, holding two jobs to fund Ivonn’s studies. Ivonn graduated with honors from Schulich School of Business, earning her Master’s degree in Marketing, balancing work in a shoe store, and teaching her peers with her academic commitments.

Today, Ivonn applies her expertise at AptPay, a leading Canadian fintech company. Beyond her professional pursuits, Ivonn founded her own marketing agency focused on brand awareness and SEO, helping other businesses thrive in the digital landscape.

Recognizing a need for sustainable and health-conscious products, Ivonn launched “Organic101,” a line of natural, vegan sea moss products sourced directly from environmentally responsible suppliers in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Ivonn’s empathy extends to all living beings. Disturbed by the rise in abandoned animals post-pandemic, she advocated for responsible pet ownership, emphasizing the critical need for spaying and neutering. Reflecting her commitment, Ivonn donates 5% of her paycheck to animal shelters each month. “Saving one animal might not change the world, but it will change the world for that one animal.”

Through her platform, she aims to inspire and empower, promoting education, ethical business practices, and compassion towards all beings.

What are your interests and what do you enjoy doing the most?

I enjoy learning and always strive to broaden my understanding of new technologies, applications, and industries through online courses and in-person lessons. My top academic aspiration is to obtain an MBA from Harvard. Besides, I have a deep love for running; I run 10 kilometers every day to support my mental and physical health.

List any special training you have had (music, art, drama, dance, etc.)

• Chess
• Swimming
• Public Speaking
• Boating (I have an official boat license)

In what sports, if any, have you participated?

I have played tennis and basketball.

Name one person, other than your parents, who has had the most influence on your life. Why?

The most influential person in my life, outside of my family, has been my mentor. He instilled in me the powerful lesson that success often follows numerous failures. He supported all my business ideas, allowing me to make mistakes and learn from them. Each failed attempt, he taught me, was not a setback but a stepping stone toward greater achievements. This perspective has shaped my approach to challenges and perseverance profoundly.

What is your proudest personal accomplishment (other than participating in this pageant)?

My proudest personal achievement has been to start providing financial support for my mother, allowing her the freedom to pursue her passions. This accomplishment gains even more meaning as we embark on supporting Smile Train together during my journey in the Miss Universe Canada competition. Seeing her excitement to join me in this cause has deepened the joy and fulfillment of this milestone.

What is the most interesting or unique thing that has ever happened to you and/or what is the most interesting thing about you?

One of the most unique experiences in my life occurred at the age of 14 when I traveled to Japan alone on a modeling contract. During my time there, I was fortunate to participate in a Chanel fashion show in Tokyo. This adventure wasn’t just about modeling; it immersed me in Japanese culture and allowed me to form lifelong friendships. More importantly, it taught me the value of independence and the importance of self-reliance at a young age, shaping my perspective and approach to future challenges.

What is your career ambition and what are you doing or plan to do to accomplish that goal?

My career goal is to lead multiple successful businesses and mentor aspiring women entrepreneurs. I admire successful businesswomen and strive to share my expertise with like-minded individuals. To reach this goal, I actively network, study successful business models, and apply what I learn in managing my own ventures.

What would be your “dream job” in life?

I see a “dream job” not as a static endpoint but as a dynamic voyage enriched by experiences, new connections, empathy, compassion, and the opportunity to create a positive impact and leave behind a meaningful legacy. Embracing this journey, with its myriad opportunities and lessons, embodies the essence of my professional life.

Describe where you were raised and what your childhood was like.

Growing up, my father was a cargo ship captain, often away, and my mother primarily raised me. My passion for ships began during a trip with my father, where I even had my own room on the ship and learned basic navigation. Off the ship, my days were packed with activities like extracurricular chemistry and competitive chess.

List any interesting or unusual jobs you may have had.

I haven’t held any unusual jobs myself, but my mom had an interesting career as a flight attendant before meeting my father.

List any volunteering you have done.

• I participated in a cross-country drive to raise funds for Johanita, a courageous girl battling cancer, to help her family cover medical expenses.
• After our neighbor suffered a stroke, my mother and I stepped in to assist with daily tasks such as cooking and cleaning.
• I support animal shelters financially and donate essential items like pads, food, medicine, and construction materials, extending my efforts to shelters in Canada, Guyana, Brazil, and Spain.
• My mom and I also rescue animals in need that we find in our community. We’ve helped a squirrel fallen from its nest, a pigeon attacked by a cat, and an abandoned dog. We even saved a palm tree once found on the side of the road, which now thrives at our home.

What is your most unusual talent?

I know how to be a great friend!

Where is the most interesting place you have been to?

Guyana, in the jungle. I stood on the back of a pickup truck for six hours straight.

Fun fact: Deep in the jungle, you can also buy Coca-Cola with gold. Since the main operation in the jungle is gold mining, more people have gold on hand rather than cash.

What do you hope to be doing in ten years?

In ten years, I hope to be immersed in a cycle of continuous growth—trying more, failing more, and succeeding more. I aim to build and maintain strong relationships with inspiring people, learning from their perspectives and experiences. My goal is to help others and motivate them to contribute positively as well, embracing the idea that no impact is too small.