Miss Universe Canada

Lana Partidas

Lana Partidas

Height: 5’9
Hometown: Vancouver, BC
Languages: English, Spanish
Occupation: Dental Administrator

Lana Partidas is the founder of Imperfectly Perfect, an initiative that empowers people to stop waiting for the “perfect moment” and start taking small, courageous steps today. Through workshops, community events, and digital storytelling, she helps others build confidence, self-worth, and forward momentum in their lives—no matter where they’re starting from.

Born on a small Caribbean island off the coast of Venezuela, Lana now lives in Vancouver, Canada. Her multicultural background, paired with years of experience in hospitality, business management, and wellness spaces, allows her to connect authentically with a wide range of people. She works alongside local organizations to spark meaningful conversations about mental health, self-leadership, and everyday resilience.

Lana leads Imperfectly Perfect workshops that focus on practical action, mindset shifts, and the power of showing up—even when life feels messy. Her message is simple: you don’t have to be perfect to begin, you just have to be willing to take the next step.

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

I’m passionate about personal growth, physical and mental wellness, and encouraging others to believe in themselves. I love dancing and spending time outdoors, learning about history, and exploring new coffee shops around the city. What I enjoy the most is connecting with others and finding ways to inspire small, meaningful actions that lead to lasting change.

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

  • Flamenco
  • Ballet
  • Tango dancing very briefly

In what sports, if any, have you participated?

  • Swimming
  • Synchronized swimming

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

One person who has had a major influence on my life is Sascha Barboza. She has shown me that success isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment — it’s about showing up consistently, believing in yourself, and taking action even when it feels scary. Her example gave me the courage to chase my own dreams, including stepping onto the Miss Universe Canada stage, and to trust that small, brave steps can lead to extraordinary things.

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

My proudest personal accomplishment is no longer fearing being seen and heard, and letting go of the belief that I had to be perfect to be worthy. For years, I held myself back—from opportunities, from dreams, even from moments of joy—because I was afraid that if people truly saw me, they would also see my imperfections.

Becoming a mother changed everything. It made me realize that life is too precious to waste hiding. I learned that true strength comes from embracing who you are—not just the polished parts, but the vulnerable ones too.

Because of this journey, I am here today. I’m no longer chasing perfection; I’m chasing purpose. And I’m here to show other women that they don’t have to wait to feel ‘perfect’ to live their dreams—they are worthy exactly as they are.

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

The most interesting thing about me is the diverse range of places I’ve lived — from St. Louis, MO, to Omaha, NE, to London, England, and now Canada. Each place has offered me a unique perspective and has shaped my ability to adapt, connect with people from all walks of life, and embrace new beginnings with excitement and openness.

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

I’m a woman with big dreams, and my career ambition is to build a platform that empowers people to embrace their imperfections, take courageous steps toward their dreams, and prioritize their mental and emotional well-being. I am currently hosting workshops for students, launching a podcast focused on meaningful conversations, and planning a future conference called ‘Imperfectly Perfect’ to expand this message even further. Long-term, I also plan to open a wellness bakery and café to create a space where community and well-being meet. Every project I am working on is focused on the same mission: building connection, encouraging self-belief, and showing that success is about progress, not perfection.

What would be your “dream job” in life?

My dream job is to be a speaker, podcast host, and entrepreneur who inspires others to embrace who they are, take courageous steps toward their goals, and let go of the pressure to be perfect. I’d also love to open a healthy bakery and coffee shop—a space that feels like home, where people can connect over good food and meaningful conversations. For me, it’s not about one title—it’s about creating impact, building community, and showing others that they’re capable of more than they think.

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

I was raised on a small island in the Caribbean, just off the coast of Venezuela. Life there was warm and simple—filled with ocean breezes, barefoot adventures, and a deep connection to nature. But like many places, it had its challenges. I witnessed my first armed robbery at just six years old, a moment that made me grow up a little faster than most. Still, those early experiences taught me resilience and the importance of choosing hope, even when the world feels uncertain. Looking back, my childhood gave me both strength and heart—and I carry both with me today.

List any interesting or unusual jobs you may have had.

One of the most unusual jobs I’ve had was working as an au pair in the Midwest. Coming from a Caribbean island, it was a complete cultural shift—suddenly I was in the middle of snowy winters, taking care of kids, and navigating a whole new world. It challenged me in so many ways, from learning to adapt quickly to building meaningful relationships in a totally different environment. It was one of the most eye-opening and growth-filled chapters of my life.

List any volunteering you have done.

I’ve volunteered in several ways over the years. Most recently, I’ve been organizing a mental health awareness event in Vancouver to create a safe space for connection and movement through dance. I’m also coordinating a healthy cooking workshop through Gordon Neighbourhood House. Whether it’s speaking to students or helping organize events, I believe in showing up wherever I can make a difference—no matter how small.

What is your most unusual talent?

My most unusual talent is that I can read a dessert recipe and instinctively know how to make it healthier without sacrificing the taste. It’s like a superpower I’ve developed from years of experimenting in the kitchen—especially because I’ve always loved baking, but also believe in feeling good from the inside out. I can turn almost any decadent dessert into a guilt-free version that still satisfies your sweet tooth!

Where is the most interesting place you have been to?

The most interesting place I’ve been to is Reykjavík, Iceland. It felt like stepping onto another planet—between the volcanic landscapes, the hot springs, and the midnight sun, everything was surreal in the best way. One of my favorite memories was trying a traditional dish called Plokkfiskur—a creamy mix of fish, potatoes, and cheese. It was so different from anything I’d ever had, but absolutely delicious. That trip reminded me how stepping out of your comfort zone—whether it’s the food, the landscape, or the culture—can lead to the most unforgettable experiences.

What do you hope to be doing in ten years?

In ten years, I hope to be leading larger-scale initiatives that make a lasting impact on communities. I envision myself expanding my advocacy to reach a global audience, continuing to support women in their journeys of self-acceptance and personal growth. I’d also love to be known for pioneering projects that blend wellness, entrepreneurship, and mental health in a way that truly shifts the conversation around perfectionism and self-worth.

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

It took me 20 years to get here. For so long, I believed I had to be perfect to be seen, to deserve a place like this. Today, standing here, I am choosing to own my imperfections — and proving that true power comes from believing in yourself. By being vulnerable and sharing our stories, we don’t just change our own lives — we inspire others to believe they can too.

This would be my message as Miss Universe Canada: You don’t have to wait to feel perfect to live your dreams. You are worthy exactly as you are. And when we stop hiding and start showing up as our full selves, we give others permission to do the same. I want to use this platform to amplify that message and help others take that first brave step — no matter where they are in their journey.