Aliya Jasey
Height: 5’5
Hometown: Windsor, ON
Languages: English
Occupation: Honours Business Administration and Psychology – University of Windsor
Aliya Jasey was born and raised in Windsor, Ontario. A city known for its strong sense of community and beautiful waterfront. Aliya was diagnosed with leukemia on her fourth birthday, which was the experience that sparked her passion for advocacy and gave her a strong sense of purpose. Today, she is a 19-year-old university student at the University of Windsor, double majoring in Psychology and Business with plans to pursue a career in law.
Outside of the classroom, Aliya is a dancer and a member of her university’s cheerleading team. She is also a published model who has worked with Canadian brands such as Knix, appeared in magazines including Flanelle and Lucy’s, and walked the runway for Canadian designer Joseph Tassoni. In her free time, she enjoys baking, practicing pilates, and spending time with friends. Aliya embraces every opportunity to express herself authentically, whether performing, modelling, or simply showing up for the people around her. She leads with intention, creating a space where others feel seen and empowered.
Aliya has been dedicated to volunteering and fundraising since the age of eight, supporting organizations that hold a special place in her heart, including Transition to Betterness, Fight Like Mason, CMHA, the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation, and the Ronald McDonald House. She has also organized and led her own fundraiser for Project Hope Windsor-Essex, collecting over 8,900 feminine hygiene products to support women in need. Everything she pours into the world is a reflection of the path that brought her here. She is no longer the girl who fought to survive. She became the woman who transformed survival into purpose and created a life that now stands as proof that no matter what you’ve faced, you can turn your story into strength and your dreams into reality.
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What are your interests and what do you enjoy doing the most?
I’ve always had a passion for trying new things and embracing a challenge. My love for pilates, dance and going to the gym has provided me with the benefits of physical fitness and mental well-being. I’ve always loved the artistry behind beauty and have spent years learning different techniques in both makeup and hair. Cooking and baking have always been part of my life, ever since I was little, and they have always given me a sense of happiness and comfort. I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to travel and learn about other countries and their cultures. Recently, I have become a certified scuba diver and have discovered a whole new world to explore. Above all, I love volunteering and making a difference in my community.
List any special training you have had (music, art, drama, dance, etc.)
I have received training in many disciplines including competitive dance. My training began at the age of two and continued throughout my young adulthood. I started competing at the age of 15. Over the years, I’ve trained in a variety of styles, including ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, and contemporary. My training in watercraft operation includes CAN SAIL level 1 & 2 as well as my Ontario Boating License. I am also a certified PADI scuba diver and plan to pursue advanced training in the future.
In what sports, if any, have you participated?
Dance has been a major part of my life for as long as I can remember. It taught me what it means to work hard and show up even when it’s challenging. Gymnastics and baseball also gave me the chance to build different skills and experience the fun and comradery that comes with different team sports. Most recently, I made the University Of Windsor’s cheerleading team. This is a new opportunity that I am excited to pursue as it combines my love of dance and team sports
Name one person, other than your parents, who has had the most influence on your life. Why?
The person who has had the greatest influence on my life is my grandma. Not only was she by my side every single day in the hospital, but she’s also taught me so much of what I know. From cooking, painting, to sewing and beyond. She has passed down life skills that continue to shape my future. I turn to her for advice, and she somehow always knows exactly what to say. Her love and support means the world to me, and I am truly grateful to have such an amazing role model.
What is your proudest personal accomplishment (other than participating in this pageant)?
My proudest personal accomplishment was leading a successful charitable campaign for my community. I had previously been part of many charitable events but this was the first time I led one. The campaign collected a record number of 8,900 feminine hygiene products for Project Hope Windsor Essex. I learned so much; in organizing the drive, the team, and reaching out to our local sponsors. Most of all I was overwhelmed by the support we received from the community.
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 unique thing that has ever happened to me is surviving childhood cancer. On my fourth birthday I was diagnosed with leukemia which forever changed my life. Some of my earliest memories are painful and related to my cancer treatments. Undoubtedly these experiences have shaped who I am. It was through this experience that I found not only my resilience, but purpose for helping others.
What is your career ambition and what are you doing or plan to do to accomplish that goal?
My ultimate career ambition is to become a lawyer. I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Business Administration and Psychology, which offers a strong foundation for a law degree. After graduation, I am determined to attend law school and earn my Juris Doctorate degree, with the goal of passing the bar and officially practicing law. Currently, I am gaining valuable hands-on experience by shadowing one of the leading family lawyers in Ontario, where I’ve had the opportunity to learn directly from real cases and deepen my understanding of the profession.
What would be your “dream job” in life?
My dream job in life would be to become Miss Universe Canada. Everything the title represents aligns with who I am and what I stand for. I’ve always dreamed of having a platform that enables me to reach a wider audience, share my story, and promote the causes that matter most to me. To be trusted with the responsibility of representing a country and something so meaningful would be more than an honour, it would be a dream come true.
Describe where you were raised and what your childhood was like.
I was born and raised in the beautiful city of Windsor, Ontario. Although I spent a lot of my childhood in and out of the hospital I also have so many memories of my amazing city. I live on Lake St. Clair and our summers are filled with water sport activities including boating, skiing, swimming, and just spending time on the water. I love to take long walks along the vibrant riverfront which happens to provide an amazing view of the Detroit skyline. Our town is also known for its “Windsor Style Pizza” which is something our community takes pride in. Furthermore, I’m proud to be from a city where unity and compassion define our community, and where people show up for one another without hesitation. This city rallies and comes together for those in need as I have witnessed throughout my time in charitable organizations and fundraising drives. The opportunity to represent my city in Miss Universe Canada is truly an honour.
List any interesting or unusual jobs you may have had.
The most interesting job I’ve had was painting local breakwalls. A breakwall is a structure designed to protect the shoreline and nearby homes from rising lake levels, and ours was in desperate need of repair. Rather than wait for others’ help, my friend and I took the initiative to take on the project ourselves. Over the course of a summer, we learned how to properly sand, prime, and paint the entire structure. It was physically demanding and required focus and precision, but seeing the finished result made all the effort incredibly rewarding.
List any volunteering you have done.
Volunteering has always been an important part of my life since a young age. Driven by my passion for advocacy, I organized a large-scale community fundraiser for feminine hygiene products on behalf of Project Hope Windsor-Essex. I’ve also been actively involved with organizations such as the Canadian Mental Health Association, Transition to Betterness, Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, Cardiac Kids, and the Fight Like Mason Foundation. Whether it’s helping with events, raising awareness, or simply showing up for others, giving back is something that’s always been close to my heart and will continue to be a priority in my life.
What is your most unusual talent?
My most unusual talent is that I can change my voice to sound like Stitch from Disney.
Where is the most interesting place you have been to?
The most interesting place I’ve ever been to is Iceland. Its natural beauty felt like something out of a fairytale. I’ll never forget standing in front of Skógafoss waterfall, completely in awe that it was real. From the horses to the breathtaking mountains, Iceland is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in the world.
What do you hope to be doing in ten years?
In ten years, I hope to be pursuing a meaningful career in law. I also hope to be married, build a family, and embrace the journey of becoming a mother. Alongside my personal and professional goals, I want to continue and expand my volunteer work and find new ways to give back and contribute to positive change in the world around me.
Is there anything you would like to add that we haven’t asked?
My family and I have been watching Miss Universe for as long as I can remember. It became a yearly tradition in our house and something we always looked forward to. I can still remember sitting in front of the TV, watching all the girls in complete awe of their beauty and grace. I’ve always wished that I could be there on stage one day. Now, to have the opportunity to compete in the Miss Universe Canada pageant feels surreal. It is incredibly special, and I couldn’t be more excited to take part in something that has inspired me since I was a little girl.