Wranga Bedar
Height: 5’6
Hometown: Toronto, ON
Languages: English, Dutch, Dari, Pashto, Hindi
Occupation:
Wranga, born in Afghanistan and raised in The Netherlands, moved to Canada in 2019 to pursue her legal career. Driven by a commitment to fairness and justice, her multicultural background shapes her advocacy passion. With degrees in law from both civil and common law jurisdictions, including a Bachelor of Law degree from Inholland University of Applied Sciences and a Master of Law degree from the University of Toronto, she possesses a diverse skill set. Currently a lawyer licensing candidate with the Law Society of Ontario, Wranga is preparing to practice law in Canada. Fluent in English, Dutch, Dari, Pashto, and Hindi, she connects with diverse communities. Beyond law, Wranga volunteers with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada and enjoys tennis and hiking. These experiences rejuvenate her and foster a sense of connection with the world.
What are your interests and what do you enjoy doing the most?
I find the greatest joy in using my voice and skills to advocate for justice, connecting with people, and immersing myself in the beauty of nature. These interests and activities bring balance to my life and give me a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
List any special training you have had (music, art, drama, dance, etc.)
I received training in street dance during my childhood and learned the basics of Tango as an adult.
In what sports, if any, have you participated?
As a child, I participated in gymnastics, and now as an adult, I enjoy playing tennis with friends.
Name one person, other than your parents, who has had the most influence on your life. Why?
My grandma was a huge influence on my life. Despite facing tough times, she showed incredible resilience. She got married young in an arranged marriage and raised eleven children, including my mother, making sure they all got an education even though she couldn’t read.
She went through a lot, but she always loved her home country, Afghanistan. She taught me to appreciate our traditions and roots. I loved hearing her stories and spending time with her. She showed me how to find joy in the simple things. She was a beautiful and graceful woman who always took good care of her appearance, even as a grandmother of 36 grandchildren.
Though she passed away in September 2023, her spirit and wisdom still guide me. I’m thankful for the lessons she taught me and the beauty she brought into my life. I will always carry her memory with me, honouring her in everything I do.
What is your proudest personal accomplishment (other than participating in this pageant)?
One of my proudest achievements, aside from being part of this pageant, is my brave decision to relocate to a new country amidst the chaos of a global pandemic. Without the usual support from friends or family, I embarked on a fresh start, immersing myself in a new culture and language. Additionally, I worked hard to earn my Master of Law degree in a different legal system to become a licensed lawyer in Canada.
Despite facing challenges like losing my mother and grandmother within months of each other, I remained determined to achieve my goals and shape my own future. This experience has strengthened me and made me more independent, reinforcing my belief in the power of embracing change.
What is the most interesting or unique thing that has ever happened to you and/or what is the most interesting thing about you?
What sets me apart is my ability to find beauty and strength in tough times. I have learned to embrace change and turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Whether adapting to a new legal system or keeping my cultural heritage alive in a new place, I have found joy in every moment while staying true to myself.
My journey shows the resilience of the human spirit and the power of determination. It’s not just about reaching a goal; it’s about the experiences and lessons that shape who we are. I’m proud to share my story, hoping to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and chase their dreams with determination.
What is your career ambition and what are you doing or plan to do to accomplish that goal?
My career goal is to promote fairness, justice, and service, especially for marginalized communities. With a diverse legal background, I aim to use my skills to bridge cultural gaps and advocate for those facing challenges.
I’m also dedicated to supporting those affected by illness, drawing from my own experiences.
Outside of work, I enjoy tennis and hiking to stay balanced. Through the Miss Universe Canada journey, I’m proud to champion ‘beauty with purpose’ and advocate for global change. Let’s work together to create a world of compassion and justice.
What would be your “dream job” in life?
My dream job is to blend my love for law with my commitment to social justice. I see myself in a role where I empower others, drive lasting change, and make a real impact on society.
As I start my journey with Miss Universe Canada, I’m thrilled to use this platform to speak up and encourage others to chase their dreams with passion and purpose.
Describe where you were raised and what your childhood was like.
I was born in Kabul, Afghanistan, to hardworking parents—a nurse and an engineer. When I was 7 years old, my family fled the war in Afghanistan and sought safety in the Netherlands. Despite their high education in Afghanistan, my parents had to start from scratch when we moved to the Netherlands, all for the sake of giving my siblings and me a better life.
Life in the Netherlands was about resilience and sticking together as a family. Despite the challenges of adjusting, we found joy in each other’s company and cherished family moments. My parents always emphasized the importance of education, working tirelessly in small jobs to provide us with the best opportunities. Thanks to their sacrifices, my siblings and I are all well-educated—me in law in Canada, my sister in pharmacy in the Netherlands, and my brother on his way to becoming a plastic surgeon in Los Angeles, United States.
In 2022, my mother was diagnosed with cancer, and I went back to the Netherlands to care for her. Her passing in 2023 left a huge gap, but her love and strength continue to guide me. Through grief, I have found support from family and friends, which has fueled my determination to live life to the fullest, just as my mother wanted.
Joining Miss Universe Canada, I bring with me the lessons of resilience, compassion, and gratitude instilled by my upbringing. I’m honoured to share my story and pay tribute to my family’s legacy of love and strength.
List any interesting or unusual jobs you may have had.
Working at a refugee law firm was incredibly meaningful for me. Helping people seeking asylum in Canada, many escaping violence and persecution, was an honour. As a former refugee myself, I deeply connected with their struggles.
Assisting them through the complex application process filled me with pride. Their gratitude, shown through prayers and referrals, was truly rewarding. It taught me that true fulfillment comes from making a positive impact on others’ lives.
This experience reinforced my belief in empathy, compassion, and advocacy for the vulnerable. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such meaningful work, and I carry the lessons learned with me as I pursue my aspirations of making a difference in the world.
List any volunteering you have done.
I served as a liaison between sponsors and contributors to projects in the field of education, integration, and development aimed at Afghan students in the Netherlands.
What is your most unusual talent?
My most unusual talent is being able to roll my tongue upside down.
Where is the most interesting place you have been to?
British Columbia, Canada, has a special place in my heart. From the lively city of Vancouver to the peaceful landscapes of Whistler and Vancouver Island, this diverse region has captivated me.
During a solo trip, I took a breathtaking gondola ride to Whistler. The stunning views of towering peaks and lush forests left me in awe, bringing a deep sense of peace.
Exploring Vancouver and its surroundings, like hiking in Grouse Mountain, gave me moments of reflection and self-discovery. British Columbia’s natural beauty, from Vancouver Island’s rugged coastline to Whistler’s majestic mountains, has left a lasting impression on me. It’s a place full of adventure and inspiration, and I’m grateful for the memories and lessons it’s given me.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years?
In ten years, I see myself living a life filled with purpose, gratitude, and a strong dedication to making a meaningful difference. Joining Miss Universe Canada marks the start of this journey, and I’m excited for the opportunities and challenges it brings. Every step I take will lead me closer to achieving my dreams and creating a better future for everyone.
Is there anything you would like to add that we haven’t asked?
I like to mention my dedication to advocating for refugee rights and supporting those affected by cancer, based on my own experiences. I’m also passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion, whether in the legal field or beauty pageantry. These topics are close to my heart, and I’m always ready to share my thoughts and have meaningful conversations about them.