Height: 5’6
Hometown: Dundas, ON
Languages: English, Portuguese, Spanish
Occupation: Social Service Worker
Elizandra Manuel, affectionately known as Ellie, was born in Luanda, Angola, and raised in Canada—a country she proudly calls home. Now a Canadian citizen, Ellie is eager to give back to the nation that has provided her with countless opportunities and a strong sense of purpose.
A graduate of the Social Service Worker program at Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology, Ellie is based in Hamilton, Ontario—a city celebrated for its cultural diversity and strong community support systems. For over 12 years, she has dedicated her career to working with children and teenagers living with mental health challenges. Her natural ability to connect with individuals in crisis and guide them toward hope and healing is a hallmark of her professional journey. Elizandra is passionate about continuing her education in the field of Psychology. Her goal is to deepen her impact in the mental health sector by combining her hands-on experience with academic expertise.
family & friends
- Reading
- Watching mental health documentaries
- Organizing ladies night
List any special training you have had (music, art, drama, dance, etc.)
- Kizomba and salsa dancing.
In what sports, if any, have you participated?
- Track and field
Name one person, other than your parents, who has had the most influence on your life. Why?
My sister because she is very intelligent in all that she does.
What is your proudest personal accomplishment (other than participating in this pageant)?
The work I accomplish everyday, dealing with challenging situations with youth in extreme crises.
What is the most interesting or unique thing that has ever happened to you and/or what is the most interesting thing about you?
I have an extreme ability to understand human behaviour and help bring people to their best emotional state through discussions.
What is your career ambition and what are you doing or plan to do to accomplish that goal?
I would like to work in the immigration department of Global Affairs Canada. I am adding a forth language (French) in order to do attain this job since English and French is vital for this role.
What would be your “dream job” in life?
I would love to empower women to become more confident by having opportunities to speak publicity with them.
Describe where you were raised and what your childhood was like.
I was born in Angola and lived there until I was 16. Then moved to Canada hence the reason I speak Portuguese. My childhood was filled with love, tender affection and I was surrounded by very educated people all the time.
List any interesting or unusual jobs you may have had.
Worked for Disney on Ice, worked at Danier Leather and I was a Food Expeditor.
List any volunteering you have done.
- St Joseph Mental Heath Hospital West 5th Hamilton
What is your most unusual talent?
Making beautiful gift baskets, drawing, decorating.
Where is the most interesting place you have been to?
Berat, Albania.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years?
I would finish a Bachelor’s in Psychology.
Is there anything you would like to add that we haven’t asked?
I want to be Miss Universe Canada because I truly believe that anything is possible through hard work and consistency. I hope to inspire other girls from diverse and unique backgrounds to write their own stories and never settle for less than what they deserve.
I come from a remote place where many things often seemed impossible. But I never let that distance limit me. In fact, I see my origins as something that makes me unique and special. My life experiences and perspective have given me a genuine appreciation for living fully and finding joy in the journey.
Like many immigrants, I faced significant challenges throughout the immigration process, including losing my rights to health care, education, and work. That’s why being able to compete for the Miss Universe Canada crown is more than just a dream, it’s a blessing, a symbol of resilience and a celebration of how far I’ve come. I just want to thank the universe for the opportunities and enjoy this journey as much as I can.