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

I find the greatest joy and fulfillment in making a meaningful impact and using my experiences to uplift those facing similar challenges I’ve overcome. Having navigated immigration and built a career in corporate finance, I feel a deep sense of responsibility—and joy—in guiding others on their journeys.

Through my platform, The Canadian Dream, I share stories of resilience to inspire and support immigrants. Recently, I delivered the keynote at the Immigrant Women Career Conference in Montreal, where sharing my story of overcoming adversity and advocating for mental health truly connected me with others.

Outside of my work and advocacy, I’m passionate about fashion, beauty, and the runway. I love expressing myself creatively through modeling—whether it’s on a real runway or in Excel spreadsheets (yes, I can do both!). Fashion has always been a form of empowerment for me, allowing me to celebrate confidence, culture, and femininity.

These lighter passions keep me balanced, but above all, my greatest joy comes from making a meaningful impact—whether it’s through mentoring, speaking, or simply uplifting someone who feels unseen. These experiences remind me that true purpose is found in service, and that’s what I enjoy most.

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

Growing up, the arts shaped my childhood with piano, music lessons, ballet, and gymnastics, nurturing my creativity and discipline. After immigrating to Canada, I couldn’t continue formal training, but my passion never faded.

Today, I’m grateful to express that part of me on stage— I had the pleasure to work with brilliant photographers, choreographers, and directors across the globe. In every movement and moment, I honour the little girl who once dreamed through music and dance, and the woman she has become through resilience and reinvention.

In what sports, if any, have you participated?

Running has always been more than a sport to me—it’s a source of strength, clarity, and resilience. Over the past two years, I’ve completed five half-marathons, each one a personal milestone and a reminder of the power of perseverance.

Most recently, I crossed the finish line at Ottawa Race Weekend, marking the second year of my #RunForSmiles campaign—an initiative I created to support the official humanitarian partner of Miss Universe Canada. This year, I’m proud to be raising funds for the Canadian Mental Health Association, championing a cause deeply close to my heart: mental well-being for all.

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

Someone who has inspired me since a young age was Natalie Glebova. I still remember watching Miss Universe 2005 as a young girl in Ukraine, mesmerized by the moment a woman from Canada—whose name carried an Eastern European familiarity—was crowned Miss Universe. In that instant, a dream was born in my heart: to one day represent Canada on that very stage.

Years later, that dream came full circle when I had the privilege of being mentored by Natalie herself. Her guidance has shaped not only my pageant journey but also my personal growth. She taught me the power of presence, the importance of staying grounded, and the beauty of living with spiritual intention. These lessons have become part of who I am, and I carry them with me proudly as I step into the Miss Universe Canada competition—and, hopefully, onto the Miss Universe stage and to inspire and empower the next generation of women to believe in their dreams and rise fearlessly.

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

One of my proudest moments was winning a national title and representing Canada on the international stage. Wearing the “Canada” sash across my chest was more than symbolic—it was a profound honour to stand before the world and embody the values we hold dear: strength, freedom, inclusivity, and compassion.

What made the experience truly meaningful wasn’t just the competition, but the journey—every late night of hard work, every person who believed in me, every lesson learned. Being on that stage meant representing not just myself, but the heart of a nation. It also gave me the chance to build lifelong connections with inspiring women from around the world.
It’s a moment I’ll always cherish—and one I hope to relive, continuing to share the spirit of Canada with the world.

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

My heritage is very unique—I was born to a Russian father and a Ukrainian mother. From a young age, I was taught the power of unity despite differences. From my Russian side, I inherited a strong sense of discipline, perseverance, and intellectual curiosity. From my Ukrainian roots, I carry deep cultural pride, warmth, and a tradition of hospitality and community.

Immigrating to Canada gave me a new perspective. As a first-generation immigrant, I’ve learned the value of resilience, compassion, and multiculturalism. Canada allowed me to embrace all parts of who I am and see the strength in diversity.

Today, with conflict affecting both sides of my lineage, my heart breaks—but it also fuels my purpose. Canada has shown me how powerful we are when we come together, and I want to use my voice to promote unity, empathy, and peace across borders at Miss Universe. We are stronger united—and I believe our differences can be our greatest strength.

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

I have attained my dream job in corporate finance, specializing in real estate development. Today, I’m deepening my expertise in this field while pursuing an MBA to prepare for my next goal: stepping into a leadership role such as Senior Director and eventually a position where I can lead strategic initiatives.

My ambition goes beyond titles—I am passionate about using finance as a force for good. I aim to design and lead sustainable finance programs that support social and affordable housing across Canada, helping address one of the country’s most pressing needs. At the same time, I am committed to advocating for gender equality in the corporate world, working to empower more women to break barriers and rise into decision-making positions.

Through dedication and purpose, I strive not only to achieve professional success, but also to create lasting impact for communities and future generations.

What would be your “dream job” in life?

My dream job is to represent Canada at the Miss Universe competition and have the honour of bringing another crown home. Since I was a little girl, this dream has fuelled my dedication and growth. I have prepared myself by representing Canada on multiple stages, gaining valuable experience and understanding the hard work, pressure, and commitment this role demands.

Through these experiences, I’ve stood alongside incredible women from around the world who have become lifelong friends and sources of support. Today, I am more ready than ever to embody what Miss Universe represents: women’s empowerment, leadership, and the power to inspire positive change.

To me, this dream is not just about the crown—it’s about using that platform to uplift others and make a meaningful impact.

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

I was born in Chernihiv, Ukraine, and grew up during the challenging post-Soviet era. My Russian father and Ukrainian mother instilled in me the importance of hard work and education from a young age. I have fond memories of playing and bonding with other children at school and in the parks.

When I turned 10, my family immigrated to Canada—a dream come true, but also a difficult transition. We left behind everything familiar, and I suddenly found myself in a new country where I didn’t speak the languages – French and English. I struggled to express myself, to make friends, and to understand my teachers. Overcoming the language barrier became one of the first tests of my resilience.

By 15, I began working to support my family and help fund my university education. Despite the many challenges, our home remained a place of love and strength—a reminder that together, we could face anything.

These experiences taught me perseverance and the value of family—lessons that continue to guide me today as I pursue my dreams and hope to inspire others facing similar transitions.

List any interesting or unusual jobs you may have had.

One of my most unique experiences was serving as the official runway coach for the Toronto Kids Fashion Week in Montreal. For two months, I had the privilege of coaching over 100 children as they prepared for their very first runway show. Transitioning from performer to coach was an incredible opportunity to take full responsibility for their routines and performances.

I drew on my years of experience—from ballet training to competing in national and international pageants—to guide and inspire them. Knowing firsthand how much my own mentors influenced me, I embraced this role with great care and dedication. Watching the children and teenagers transform through our classes and shine confidently on their first professional runway was truly unforgettable.

List any volunteering you have done.

Every Saturday, I volunteer at a local immigrant centre, helping children with their homework and supporting career development for adults. I’m deeply committed to assisting people who are in a similar situation to what my family and I once experienced, knowing how daunting and isolating it can be to start over in a new country.

I especially enjoy working with children—despite language barriers, they absorb and learn quickly through connection and encouragement. I also support career fairs, inspired by my father’s journey: a PhD in Physics who had to restart his education to practice engineering in Canada. Helping others set clear, achievable goals and navigate their new paths allows me to make a meaningful difference.

By sharing our story, I aim to inspire hope and show them they are seen—because Canada truly is a land of opportunity.

What is your most unusual talent?

I am a polyglot and I speak five languages: Ukrainian, Russian, English, French, and Spanish. Growing up in a multicultural environment, I developed a natural ability to learn languages quickly and embrace diverse cultures. This skill has been invaluable—not only in advancing my career and education but also in building meaningful connections with people from all walks of life.

I’ve loved using this talent during competitions, where speaking multiple languages allows me to connect deeply and celebrate the beauty of our global community.

Where is the most interesting place you have been to?

Thailand was the most incredible place I’ve visited, when I represented Canada internationally. I had always dreamed of experiencing its rich culture and breathtaking nature. The moment I arrived, I felt an unexpected sense of home—the airport announcements were in English, Thai, and Russian, reflecting the vibrant post-Soviet community there.

The warmth and kindness of the Thai people truly stood out. Their hospitality made my month-long stay unforgettable, though it passed far too quickly. I left with a deep desire to return someday—and I hope to come back as Miss Universe Canada to reconnect with this beautiful country and its wonderful people.

What do you hope to be doing in ten years?

In ten years, I envision a life filled with love—surrounded by my family, a home near the water, and a couple of dogs bringing joy. Professionally, I see myself as a leader in my community and a proud former Miss Universe Canada, using my platform to advocate for immigrants and champion diversity.

Through my platform, The Canadian Dream, I want to continue sharing powerful stories of immigrants, coaching and inspiring newcomers to overcome challenges and thrive. I am committed to helping more immigrants make a positive impact in communities across the country.

I also aim to hold a senior role in corporate finance, where I can drive meaningful change and pave the way for other women like myself. My hope is to leave a lasting, positive impact on the people I serve and the world around me.