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

Some of my interests include the performing arts, singing, dancing, and acting. I am a proud member of Windsor Light Music Theatre, where I can be seen on stage performing, volunteering behind the scenes or even painting sets–helping bring the magic of musical theatre to life! I also have a strong passion for the visual arts. I enjoy creating artwork through my art collective, Sophia’s Studio, where I design handmade pieces, explore new creative projects, and collaborate with other local artists and organizations in my community. Whether I am on stage, teaching lessons, or in the studio, I am passionate about using creativity to connect with others and make a positive impact in my community.

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

As a dancer, singer and performer with almost 20 years of experience, I have developed extensive training in the performing arts, and I have developed the skills to mentor and inspire the next generation of young performers. Working with Windsor Light Music Theatre, I have helped individuals build confidence, develop creative expression, and find a sense of belonging within the arts. Additionally, I recently earned my Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts, specializing in teaching Intermediate and Senior Visual Arts and Social Sciences at the high school level. My studies have given me the knowledge to continue teaching a variety of creative disciplines, including visual arts, film, media, communications, and design courses, strengthening my ability to foster creativity in my students. I remain committed to lifelong learning and look forward to inspiring the next generation of creative and confident learners through both visual and performing arts.

In what sports, if any, have you participated?

I was never the star athlete growing up, but I always enjoyed remaining active to enhance wellness and personal growth. Six years ago, I picked up a golf club and began to learn the sport in my spare time, using it as a way to get out and stay active after the pandemic. As a former competitive track athlete, I find it important to stay active in any way possible. Now, I continue to participate in pilates classes, go for walks, and play golf to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Regardless of whether I am participating in a competitive sport or being active in my personal time, movement remains a constant source of balance and well-being.

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

An influential person is someone who is inspiring and transformative. They possess motivation, perseverance, and many other positive qualities. If I could choose my parents, I definitely would. They are the people who encourage and inspire me to be the best version of myself, and I am grateful for everything they do to support my many dreams and accomplishments. However, when looking beyond my immediate family, I see an entire network of individuals who make up an incredible support system. This includes my teachers, professors, students, community leaders, sponsors, friends, extended family members and many others. Therefore, simply choosing just one person would not accurately capture the collective impact that each individual has had on my life’s journey and made me who I am today.

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

Growing up, I have achieved many milestones that have shaped me into the woman I am today. One of my most recent accomplishments was earning my dual bachelor’s degrees in Visual Arts and Education at the University of Windsor. Throughout my studies, I maintained an all-around distinction and was honoured as a Dean’s Scholar for all four years of my undergraduate education. Before I even graduated, I achieved another lifelong goal by securing my dream job as a teacher. At just 23 years old, I am incredibly proud to begin my teaching career and continue my family’s legacy by following in the footsteps of my parents, who have continued to inspire my passion for teaching.

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 been fortunate to experience many incredible opportunities throughout my life, but one of the most unique has been receiving a second chance to compete for a national title. In 2024, I was given the opportunity to compete at Miss Universe Canada. Although I was fairly new to the world of pageantry, I knew I could not pass up such a once-in-a-lifetime experience. That journey challenged me, pushed me outside of my comfort zone, and taught me invaluable lessons about confidence, perseverance, and personal growth. After the competition, I took time away from pageantry to focus on my education, career, and personal development. However, I always knew my journey was not over. Today, I am returning to the national stage for a second time, supported by an incredible network of sponsors, family, friends, and community members who have believed in me every step of the way. It is not every day that someone can say they have competed at Miss Universe Canada once, let alone twice. This second chance is something I do not take for granted. It is an honour and an opportunity to showcase how much I have grown, share the experiences that have shaped me, and continue pursuing a dream that has challenged me to become the best version of myself.

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

As an Ontario Certified Teacher and newly hired educator in Windsor-Essex, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to apply everything I have learned throughout my educational journey in a meaningful way. My career ambition is to become a knowledgeable and inclusive educator who empowers students to reach their full potential. One of my goals is to specialize in teaching English Language Learners. I am passionate about helping newcomers to Canada build the confidence and skills they need to succeed both academically and socially. I have already started pursuing additional qualifications to specialize in teaching English Language Learners and understand the purpose of multilingual education. My goal is to create opportunities for these students to thrive while also learning from their unique experiences, perspectives, and cultures, allowing us to grow together as a classroom community.

What would be your “dream job” in life?

I feel so grateful to be able to say that I have landed my dream job. Teaching has always been my dream career, and being able to help guide my students to pursue their dreams. However, as a passionate, artistic individual, I take pride in my ability to perform on stage in musical productions. Regardless of the role, big or small, it has always been my dream to land a role on Broadway. Although this dream is far-fetched, I always tell myself that nothing is impossible. The only way to make dreams come true is to never give up and to keep on pursuing the things that bring us joy. I want to prove to young individuals that with motivation, determination and confidence, anything is possible. I truly believe that one of the most fulfilling aspects of teaching is witnessing my students bring their own personal dreams to life.

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

I was raised in a suburban community in Windsor, Ontario, a city known for its beautiful waterfront and its unique position as Canada’s southernmost city. Growing up by the water has always been my favourite part of living in Windsor. From walking along the riverfront or rollerblading on the trails with friends, those breezy summer days created memories I will cherish forever. As an only child, I was fortunate to be surrounded by the unwavering love and support of my parents. It has always been the three of us, and over the years, I have gained a deep appreciation for the true meaning of family. My family may be small, but we are mighty. We look out for one another, celebrate each other’s successes, and provide support through every challenge. Looking back at my childhood, I remember feeling out of place in school because it was difficult for me to relate to peers who had large families. As I have matured, I’ve come to truly appreciate my quaint family and the amazing adventures we have shared. I cherish every moment from the simplicity of everyday life to creating the best memories together.

List any interesting or unusual jobs you may have had.

One of the most unique and memorable jobs I have is working as a ‘Party Princess’ for children’s birthday parties and special charity events. Dressed as beloved Disney characters, I would spend some of my weekends singing songs, playing games, leading activities, and creating magical memories for children and their families. The role was both fun and rewarding, requiring creativity, confidence, and plenty of improvisation. Children often ask the funniest and most unexpected questions, so I would have to think quickly and stay in character. No two parties were ever the same, and I loved having the opportunity to bring joy to others while embracing my passion for performance and connecting with people. Plus, it’s not every day that someone could say, “I was a real-life princess!”

List any volunteering you have done.

• LEAD Student Volunteer- Faculty of Education (Teaching and working with underprivileged and at-risk youth)
• Windsor Light Music Theatre – youth productions (hair, makeup, costume, props, set design) and major productions (props and set building).
• Art Windsor Essex (AWE) Volunteer- (instructor, tour guide, and assistant at events)
• Our Lady of Atonement Parish – (Sunday School Teacher)
• Kidney Foundation – (Celebrity Men’s Fashion Show)
• Optimist Club of St. Clair Beach – (holiday events, toy drives, charity events, etc.)
• International Women’s Day Fashion Show – (Model for boutiques owned by women entrepreneurs)

What is your most unusual talent?

I definitely have many talents, but one of my more unusual ones is that I can still recite the Periodic Table of Elements song from memory. I first learned it back in high school, and now, a decade later, I can still remember it word for word. It’s a bit of an ironic talent, considering I haven’t taken a science course since high school, but it has remained one of those random things I can never seem to forget.

Where is the most interesting place you have been to?

One of the most interesting places I have visited is the Postojna Cave, located in Slovenia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features an underground train and is famously home to living aquatic species known as “baby dragons”. The cave itself is a breathtaking natural wonder, formed entirely by the earth over thousands of years, with massive underground chambers and one of the largest known underground river canyons in the world. What made the experience so memorable was witnessing the incredible natural beauty hidden beneath the earth’s surface. It was truly fascinating to see how something so vast and intricate could exist underground, reminding me that some of the world’s most remarkable beauty is not always visible at first glance; sometimes you have to look beneath the surface to fully appreciate it.

What do you hope to be doing in ten years?

In ten years, I envision myself as a full-time educator while also continuing my personal education in earning my Master’s of Education. I wish to dedicate my practice to fostering a safe and motivational environment where students thrive. During the summer months, I wish to spend time travelling, allowing myself to become immersed in different cultures. My ultimate goal with world travel is to gain valuable and educational experiences that I can bring back into my classroom. Furthermore, I see myself as a mentor and advocate for individuals of all ages, supporting their mental well-being and continuing to create environments to foster a sense of belonging. Whether I am leading creative workshops, supporting students in the classroom, or connecting with members of my community, I am committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Is there anything you would like to add that we haven’t asked?

As the final delegate being added to this experience, I am stepping into this journey with a renewed sense of purpose and confidence. Returning to Miss Universe Canada for a second time has strengthened my voice, and I am ready to use this platform to create meaningful impact through education, art, and mental health advocacy.