Miss Universe Canada

Samantha Samaka

Samantha Samaka

Height: 5’3
Hometown: Toronto, ON
Languages: English
Occupation: Musician, Actress, CEO

Samantha “SAMi” Samaka is a Nigerian-born, Toronto-raised, New York–based multimedia force—an award-winning musician, Recording Academy member, and bold advocate for mental health and PCOS awareness. A recipient of Jay-Z’s Roc Nation scholarship and a graduate of The Weeknd’s HXOUSE incubator program, SAMi is known for her fearless presence in music and media. Her music and Miss Universe Canada journey has been featured on multiple Times Square billboards, and her work continues to center resilience, truth, and glam unapologetically.

A proud immigrant and survivor, she rose from adversity—including bullying, medical challenges, and family trauma—to become a nationally recognized creator, artist, and changemaker. As a former social worker, who graduated from Sheridan Davis Campus, she now chases her entertainment dreams instead. She’s the creator of OKAAYSAMi’s Chatterbox, a boundary-breaking talk platform that blends celebrity interviews, cultural commentary, and raw storytelling. As the founder of SAMiProductions, she empowers underrepresented voices while building a multimedia empire rooted in advocacy and artistry. She’s also currently studying Video Arts and Technology at CUNY while navigating the entertainment world as a rising performer, actress, and future pageant queen.

Representing Canada on the Miss Universe stage is her dream, SAMi is not just a delegate—she’s a revolution in heels, proving that beauty with a purpose is unstoppable.

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Q&A

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

I’m a creative, so take a wild guess: music, art, movies, etc. I’m deeply passionate about music, acting, storytelling, and creating platforms that amplify authentic voices. I love performing, producing shows, and bringing fresh ideas to life through my projects. I also enjoy exploring spirituality and intuitive practices, connecting with energy beyond the surface. What I enjoy most is being on stage or behind the mic, sharing my truth, inspiring others, and using my art to spark meaningful conversations that empower people to live boldly.

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

Trained in vocal performance, audio engineering, percussion, and more at the RocNation school. Also trained in live plays.

In what sports, if any, have you participated?

I played basketball when I was in grade 6 and I did cross country all through out elementary school.

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

Jay-Z has had the most influence on my life outside of my parents. As a visionary artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, he has shown me the power of transforming adversity into purpose. Receiving the Roc Nation scholarship opened doors for me and reinforced my belief that creativity, resilience, and community uplift can coexist. Jay-Z’s journey — rising from humble beginnings to global impact — inspires me to dream boldly and use my platform to empower others.

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

My proudest personal accomplishment is being awarded a $40,000 full-tuition scholarship from Jay-Z’s Roc Nation School of Music — a huge, life-changing milestone as the first Black woman from Toronto to receive this prestigious recognition. This wasn’t just about funding my education; it was a global co-sign from one of the world’s most powerful cultural icons, validating my artistry and ambition on a massive scale. It reminded me that no dream is too big and that I truly have the power to break barriers and make history.

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 things that has ever happened to me was in Los Angeles, when I was standing outside an event I couldn’t even get into. Out of nowhere, Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles, walked by alone with no security — a completely surreal moment. I introduced myself, told her about receiving the Roc Nation scholarship from Jay-Z, and took a video with her. Amazingly, she reposted our video on her Instagram, where it reached over a million views and essentially co-signed me in front of her entire audience. That experience still feels like a dream! The most interesting thing about me is how I do everything alone — I moved to America alone, tour alone, go to events alone, and built my dreams from the ground up alone, with nothing but faith, grit, and vision. I have fearlessly rewritten my story at every stage, going from a little girl in Nigeria to building a new life in Toronto, and then boldly starting over again in America to pursue my dreams. I turned surviving into thriving, creating my own TV network, producing an AI-generated show, hosting OKAAYSAMi’s Chatterbox, and performing on big stages — all while carrying the rare spiritual gift of reading energy and connecting beyond the physical. My life proves you can stand alone, transform pain into power, and still light up every room you walk into.

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 global superstar and influential multimedia entrepreneur, using my art and platforms to inspire, entertain, and empower people worldwide. To make this a reality, I pursued an education at the Roc Nation School to build my industry knowledge, and I made the bold move of relocating to America from Canada, starting from scratch to chase my dreams. Also became a student of The Weeknd & Lamar Taylor at the HXOUSE program for black women creatives. I’ve been investing in projects under SAMiProductions — including SAMivision TV and OKAAYSAMi’s Chatterbox — while attending countless networking events to connect with key players in the entertainment world. Every step I take is fueled by my commitment to breaking barriers, telling authentic stories, and uplifting others through my work.

What would be your “dream job” in life?

My dream job is to be a globally recognized creative powerhouse — an award-winning artist, actress, producer, and entertainment executive running my own multimedia empire. I want to use my platforms to tell impactful stories, break down barriers, and inspire others to live boldly and authentically. A global superstar — touring the world, performing on the biggest stages, and sharing my music, stories, and art with millions. Ultimately, my dream is to blend entertainment, advocacy, and empowerment on a worldwide stage.

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

I was born in Nigeria and raised in Toronto, Canada, within a vibrant, multicultural community that helped shape who I am today. Growing up between two cultures taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of community. My childhood was a blend of traditional values and modern opportunities, filled with both challenges and moments of triumph. Adjusting to life in Canada came with challenges — navigating cultural differences, finding belonging, and facing obstacles — but those experiences built my determination and confidence.

When my family immigrated from Nigeria to Canada, I was inspired by others around me who showed courage and sacrifice to start over for a brighter future. Seeing people invest in education and work tirelessly to build better opportunities left a deep impression on me. Although my journey has included complicated relationships and healing from past trauma, I still recognize the power of those examples and the determination shown in creating a new life. These experiences inspired my love for music, storytelling, and advocacy, and gave me a strong sense of purpose to use my voice to uplift and empower others.

List any interesting or unusual jobs you may have had.

Everything I do is an interesting or unusual job as an entertainer LOL. One of the most interesting roles I’ve had was working as a social worker, supporting individuals and families through challenging circumstances and advocating for their well-being. I’ve also worked as a multimedia creative and talk show host, blending entertainment, music, and social commentary through my platform OKAAYSAMi’s Chatterbox.

Beyond that, I’ve had unique opportunities in the entertainment industry, including working as a crowd pumper on stage at the 2024 & 2025 BET Awards and serving as a seat filler at various major award shows. These roles allowed me to experience the excitement and energy of live events behind the scenes while connecting with artists and audiences in a vibrant, fast-paced environment.

List any volunteering you have done.

  • Me To We
  • TCDSB
  • Recording Academy MusiCares
  • GrammyU
  • TeamRoc Volunteering
  • Canadian Mental Health Association
  • Redeemed Christian Church of God
  • and more…

I have volunteered my time supporting vulnerable individuals and families through my background in social work, helping connect them to resources and advocating for their well-being. I’ve also contributed to youth mentorship programs, encouraging young people to pursue their creative passions and education. Additionally, I have helped organize and participate in community events promoting mental health awareness, improving poverty, racism awareness, and cultural diversity.

What is your most unusual talent?

My most unusual talent is my ability to quickly read a room and adapt to almost any environment — whether it’s a formal stage, a live audience, or a high-pressure situation. I can shift my energy to engage, uplift, and motivate people in the moment, almost like a human “vibe-chameleon.” It’s a skill that has helped me thrive in entertainment, social work, and public speaking, and I think of it as my secret superpower for connecting with others. My intuitive ability to read energy and sense people’s intentions almost instantly. I am clairvoyant and claircognizant, which means I often just know things without logical explanation, and I can perceive information beyond the physical senses. I am also a medium, able to connect with spiritual energies. As a medium, I connect with energies beyond this world, tapping into a deeper layer of truth that guides me in life and in helping others. It’s like having an internal compass that cuts through noise and illusion, allowing me to navigate any situation with clarity and intuition. This talent isn’t just unusual — it’s a superpower I’m learning to wield with grace and purpose. It has helped me navigate complex situations, protect my peace, and support others with empathy and understanding.

Where is the most interesting place you have been to?

Cancun, Mexico!!! The most interesting place I’ve been to is Cancun, Mexico — a true paradise where I lived my best life to the fullest. I danced on the resort stage, taking on fun challenges and winning prizes that kept the energy high. From thrilling ATV rides and soaring through the jungle on zip lines to jet skiing across crystal-clear waters and bungee jumping with an adrenaline rush like no other, every moment was an adventure. Nights were just as unforgettable — I partied at iconic spots like Coco Bongo, famous for its electrifying shows and nonstop energy. I also enjoyed hip hop yacht parties under the stars, made lifelong friends, and indulged in tequila tastings that added a spicy kick to the celebrations. Cancun wasn’t just a trip; it was a nonstop celebration of fun, friendship, and fearless living — a place where every moment was a memory in the making.

What do you hope to be doing in ten years?

In ten years, I see myself as one of the most successful, multifaceted artist and entrepreneur, using my platform to inspire and empower others around the world. I want to continue growing in music, acting, and multimedia production while leading meaningful social advocacy projects that create real change.

I also hope to mentor young creatives, especially women and people from underrepresented communities, helping them find their voices and pursue their dreams fearlessly. Most importantly, I want to live authentically and boldly — embracing every challenge and opportunity with passion and purpose, while building a legacy that uplifts others long after I’m gone.

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

As the founder of SAMiProductions, home to SAMivision TV, my own television network where I created and produce The SideChick, an AI-generated show pushing creative boundaries. I also host OKAAYSAMi’s Chatterbox, a platform for bold, unfiltered conversations. Follow me @okaaysami to experience creativity, empowerment, and real talk in action. Yes — I want to share that my journey is not just about personal success but about breaking barriers and inspiring others to do the same. As someone who has navigated cultural transitions, overcome trauma, and pursued my dreams against the odds, I believe my story can motivate others to embrace their own power and resilience.

I am passionate about using my voice and platform to champion inclusivity, mental health awareness, and creative expression. Beyond the pageant stage, I’m committed to creating lasting impact through art, advocacy, and community-building. This opportunity means more than a crown — it’s a chance to be a catalyst for positive change.