ADITI DEVKOTA
Height: 5’4
Hometown: Surrey, BC
Languages: English, Nepali
Occupation: Science Student at the University of British Columbia Vancouver
Aditi Devkota is an 18-year-old science student at the University of British Columbia Vancouver, pursuing a focus in Neuroscience and Physiology. Born in Germany, raised in Surrey, BC, and of Nepalese ethnicity, Aditi grew up in a culturally rich environment that helped shape her values of inclusivity and compassion. Throughout her school years, she remained actively involved in both academics and extracurriculars, from leadership in clubs to playing on athletic teams. She also developed a love for sewing, which became a creative outlet that allowed her to express herself through fashion and design.
Her journey of service began at a young age through community involvement, volunteering at senior homes, food banks, and daycare centres. Getting involved in her community early on helped her recognize that empathy is about action, not just intention. Over time, her experiences strengthened her passion for working with children and showed her how healthcare can truly change lives. Aditi is now working toward her dream of becoming a pediatrician and starting her own nonprofit organization to provide medical care to underserved communities.
As part of that mission, she recently became the Vice President of the Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children at UBC, a role that allows her to support global health initiatives while gaining valuable experience in medical outreach. For Aditi, this is not just a career path, it’s a lifelong commitment to standing up for those without a voice and giving hope where it’s needed most.
As a delegate for Miss Universe Canada 2025, Aditi believes she can represent not only youth and women, but all Canadians of diverse cultural backgrounds because she can relate to so many different experiences herself. To her, winning the crown is not the final goal, it’s a stepping stone to further the mission she’s already living: to uplift others, lead by example, and create lasting impact. Aditi is committed to being a role model who motivates the young generation to stay true to themselves and pursue their goals with humility and purpose.
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What are your interests and what do you enjoy doing the most?
My interests include sewing clothes, playing and watching sports like soccer and basketball, and volunteering with senior citizens and children. What I enjoy the most is spending time with my family and friends. Those moments, whether big or small, are what I cherish the most.
List any special training you have had (music, art, drama, dance, etc.)
- Piano Lessons
- Guitar Lessons
- Vocal Training (singing)
- Swimming
- Ice Skating
- Ballet training (when I was very young)
- Hip-hop dance training (also when I was very young)
In what sports, if any, have you participated?
I grew up playing soccer, basketball, and swimming.
Name one person, other than your parents, who has had the most influence on your life. Why?
Oprah Winfrey’s dedication to supporting children’s education globally and advocating for women’s safety and rights has had a profound influence on my life. Her efforts of using her platform to create opportunities for girls and women worldwide motivates me to pursue a path where I can make a meaningful difference. Oprah’s example teaches me the importance of using my education and voice to uplift others and fuels my ambition to build a nonprofit and support underserved communities, just as she has done through her philanthropy.
What is your proudest personal accomplishment (other than participating in this pageant)?
One of my proudest personal accomplishments was the balance I maintained throughout high school, excelling academically while staying actively involved in clubs, athletics, community volunteering, and youth mentorship. I focused on becoming a well-rounded student and leader, learning to manage my time, take initiative, and support those around me. All of this hard work and dedication was recognized when I received the Outstanding All-Round Student Award at my school out of nearly 400 students when I graduated in 2024.
What is the most interesting or unique thing that has ever happened to you and/or what is the most interesting thing about you?
In 2023, I visited Nepal and spent a week in a rural village with no electricity or electronics. This was an experience that truly changed my perspective. During my time there, I was involved in humanitarian work, distributing hygiene products and supporting local schools. I also spent a lot of time with farm animals. Living so simply while giving back to the community was eye-opening and it deepened my passion for community service.
What is your career ambition and what are you doing or plan to do to accomplish that goal?
My career ambition is to become a pediatrician because I am passionate about making a positive impact on children’s health and well-being all across the globe. To work towards this goal, I am studying at the University of British Columbia Vancouver, where I just finished my first year, to build a strong foundation in neuroscience and physiology. I also volunteer regularly at daycare centres, where I gain valuable experience interacting with children and understanding their needs. In the future, I plan to apply to medical school with a focus on pediatrics and continue gaining hands-on experience through clinical opportunities.
What would be your “dream job” in life?
My ultimate dream job is to give back to my community and underserved communities all across the world through medical volunteering. I’m already involved in volunteering in my local community, but as a pediatrician, I hope to combine my medical skills with my passion for volunteering to provide healthcare for children who need it most. I also aspire to start a nonprofit organization in the near future dedicated to bringing medical care and mental health support to these communities. Being Miss Universe Canada would give me a powerful platform to raise awareness and gain support for this cause, helping me turn this dream into a meaningful reality.
Describe where you were raised and what your childhood was like.
I was born in Germany and raised in Surrey, BC, in a supportive environment. Growing up, I was always actively involved in various activities that helped shape who I am today. I played soccer and basketball, which taught me teamwork and discipline, and took dance classes when I was very young, including ballet and hip-hop, where I developed a strong work ethic. I also took piano and guitar lessons and had vocal training, which helped me learn the importance of creative expression.
List any interesting or unusual jobs you may have had.
One of the interesting jobs I had when I was younger was delivering newspapers in my neighbourhood. It taught me responsibility and the value of hard work early on.
List any volunteering you have done.
- Suncreek Village Nursing Home, Surrey, BC
- Creative Steps Multi-Age Daycare, Surrey, BC
- Surrey Food Bank
- Coached/ managed youth basketball teams
- Vice President of high school’s Student Council
- Co-managed my high school store
- Vice President of the Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children at UBC
What is your most unusual talent?
One of my most unusual talents is that I can design and sew clothing entirely from scratch without using any sewing patterns. I love bringing creative ideas to life with just fabric, a machine, and a vision. It’s a skill that lets me express myself in a unique way.
Where is the most interesting place you have been to?
The most interesting place I have been to is New York City. It’s such a busy and exciting place with such a diverse community and so many things to see. I really enjoyed visiting famous spots like Times Square and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. The city is so lively, and I loved trying different foods and seeing all the art and culture around.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years?
In ten years, I hope to be training to become a pediatrician while actively developing my nonprofit organization to provide medical care to children in need. Most importantly, I want to be happy doing what I love and remain true to myself and my values of compassion and service.
Is there anything you would like to add that we haven’t asked?
I believe that small acts of kindness can create big changes, and I’m committed to making a positive impact both locally and beyond. Through my platform as a delegate for Miss Universe Canada 2025, I hope to raise awareness and advocate for mental wellness. I’m excited about the opportunity to grow, learn, and use my experiences to help others on a larger scale.