Malayika Kwizera
Height: 5’9
Hometown: Ottawa, ON
Languages: English, French
Occupation: Ontario
Born in the United States and raised in Canada, Malayika proudly embraces her Canadian roots while considering herself a true citizen of the world. As a professional model, her career takes her across the globe, immersing her in diverse cultures and allowing her to leave a lasting impact wherever she goes.
Throughout her travels, she has lived in countries such as Greece, India, Kenya, and Burundi, using her platform to spread humanitarian efforts and connect with people from all walks of life.
Beyond modeling, Malayika is deeply passionate about writing music and singing. Music provides her with a creative outlet and a way to connect with others on an emotional level, sharing stories and experiences through her art.
A committed volunteer, Malayika has dedicated much of her time to helping youth in less privileged countries learn English and understand their values. She believes in empowering the next generation and making a meaningful difference through her work.
Now, Malayika aspires to take home the crown, with the hopes of partnering with organizations dedicated to humanitarian services, to further her mission of giving back and making a positive impact on the world.
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What are your interests and what do you enjoy doing the most?
Writing music, being one with nature (going for hikes or long walks). Spending quality time with my family, physical exercise (being active)
List any special training you have had (music, art, drama, dance, etc.)
Music – vocal lessons and band compositions. Acceptance letter from Berklee College Of Music
In what sports, if any, have you participated?
- Basketball
- Volleyball
- Flag Football
- Track and field
- Soccer
- Throw Ball (a sport practiced in India)
Name one person, other than your parents, who has had the most influence on your life. Why?
The most influential person in my life has been my little sister, Mikhaila who is 13years younger than me. Through her, I’ve come to understand the physiological and emotional development of youth, which has helped me grow into a better role model—not only for her but for other young people as well. Mikhaila has taught me to be mindful of my words and actions, reminding me that you never know who might be listening or watching. She has shown me the true meaning of patience and how to practice it with intention. But above all, she has opened my heart to a deep, overwhelming love—one that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
What is your proudest personal accomplishment (other than participating in this pageant)?
At the age of 15, I was sent to live in India at an all-girls boarding school, where I was the only Black woman. I faced immense discrimination and harassment, and I often felt completely alone with no one to confide in. Despite the isolation and challenges, I never allowed my circumstances to break my spirit. I stood firm in my beliefs and refused to conform to societal expectations just to be accepted. I chose patience, believing that their lack of love stemmed from not truly knowing me. Through it all, I kept my head held high and my heart open to everyone around me. That is my proudest personal achievement.
What is the most interesting or unique thing that has ever happened to you and/or what is the most interesting thing about you?
One of the most interesting and life-changing experiences I’ve had happened in 2023, when I was discovered as a model while working at a dental clinic. Just a few months later, I found myself touring Europe and working as a full-time model. That unexpected moment opened doors I never imagined and completely changed the course of my life. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity, as it has allowed me to immerse myself in new cultures, broaden my perspective, and embrace new ways of living and seeing the world.
What is your career ambition and what are you doing or plan to do to accomplish that goal?
As someone with a wide range of talents and life experiences, I have more than one career ambition. One of my deepest passions lies in working with youth. I believe they are the foundation of our future, yet many are being misled by the distorted realities presented on social media. The current digital landscape often promotes unrealistic standards of success and happiness, leaving many young people feeling lost or inadequate. Through school-based programs and digital learning initiatives, I hope to educate and empower youth to think critically about what they see online. I want to remind them that everyone’s journey is unique, and they should never compare their path to someone else’s highlight reel. Their value isn’t defined by followers, likes, or trends—but by their character, growth, and authenticity.
What would be your “dream job” in life?
My dream job would be to serve my title as Miss Universe Canada, followed by representing my country on the global stage as Miss Universe 2025. My greatest ambition is to become the first Black Canadian woman to win the Miss Universe title—a historic achievement that would not only break barriers but inspire countless others. More than just a crown, this role would provide me with the platform and resources to amplify my work as a humanitarian and make a meaningful impact in ways I wasn’t able to before. To use that influence to uplift, educate, and empower—that would truly be a dream come true.
Describe where you were raised and what your childhood was like.
I was raised in Montreal and Ottawa. I always had a big community of family and friends living around me. My childhood was full of excitement and adventure alongside my family and friends. I had a great mother raising me into a fine young inspirational leader. I will forever be grateful to have had a wonderful childhood.
List any interesting or unusual jobs you may have had.
I was raised in both Montreal and Ottawa, surrounded by a strong and supportive community of family and friends. My childhood was filled with excitement, adventure, and meaningful memories shared with the people I love. I was fortunate to have a wonderful mother (a single mother) who played a powerful role in shaping me into the confident, compassionate, and inspirational young leader I am today. I will always be deeply grateful for the joy and stability of my upbringing—it laid the foundation for the person I’ve become.
List any volunteering you have done.
- Old age home volunteering work (India, Kenya and Burundi)
- Animal shelter volunteering (In Burundi and India)
- Looking after young children at daycares
- Volunteer teaching youth on the importance of recycling in India
- Assisted the elderly in my grandmother’s neighborhood (ran their errands, helped with cleaning their house and doing laundry etc.)
- Volunteered teaching children English at Kriya Yoga Research Centre (in India during COVID-19)
- Volunteered teaching vocal lessons to the children at Kriya Yoga Research Centre (in India during COVID-19)
What is your most unusual talent?
My ability to adapt to any situation or environment—a skill shaped by the diverse and sometimes challenging experiences in my past. Alongside this, I have developed an incredible capacity for forgiveness. While forgiveness can be difficult for many, it has become a personal talent of mine. It allows me to move forward with grace and resilience, no matter what life brings.
Where is the most interesting place you have been to?
Athens, Greece has quickly become one of my favorite cities to visit. What makes it so special to me is how much the people remind me of Canadians—they are kind, warm, and incredibly helpful. There’s a sense of openness and hospitality in their culture that feels very familiar. Every time I travel there, whether for work or leisure, I feel a deep sense of comfort and belonging. It truly feels like a home away from home.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years?
As a professional model, I aspire to become a well-established and highly sought-after figure in the industry. Beyond modeling, I envision myself as a spokesperson and brand ambassador—using my platform to inspire, influence, and create meaningful change. One of my deepest goals is to achieve financial stability, not just for personal success, but to build shelters and support the less privileged. This mission has become especially important to me after witnessing the heartbreaking reality of homeless children in different parts of the world. I believe this is my calling—to use my success to serve and uplift others.