When I spoke with Ashley Callingbull, the newly crowned Miss Universe Canada, earlier this year, her excitement was palpable. On July 27, the 35-year-old model, actress, and activist made history as the first Indigenous woman to claim the prestigious title.

“It’s surreal,” she marveled, still reveling in the moment. Dressed in a stunning multicolored traditional Indigenous gown designed by Kayla Lookinghorse—aptly named “the Ashley Dress”—Ashley was a striking vision symbolic of both tradition and modernity.

Reflecting on her historic win, she expressed her immense pride and the significance of representation: “It took so long for an Indigenous woman to represent Canada at Miss Universe. I feel a tremendous pressure but an even greater honor.”

Ashley recently competed on the global stage at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City, where she made it to the top 12, standing alongside contestants from all over the world. Ultimately, it was Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig who triumphed, but Ashley’s presence made waves beyond her elimination.

Moreover, Callingbull broke another barrier by being the first woman over the age of 28 to compete for this title, following the Miss Universe organization’s recent changes to allow mothers and married women to participate, alongside the removal of age limits. “There shouldn’t be an age limit to pursue your dreams,” she asserted, celebrating this progressive step.

Ashley’s journey to the crown was not an easy one. She has faced numerous challenges throughout her life. Growing up in the Enoch Cree Nation, she experienced poverty and domestic abuse. “I had to grow up really fast,” she recalled. From a very young age, she learned to navigate life without the luxuries many take for granted, surviving on ingenuity and perseverance.

But Ashley didn’t allow her past to define her. She drew strength from her heritage, her kôhkom (grandmother) and mooshum (grandfather), who instilled in her the values of healing and cultural pride. Their influences guided her to embrace her roots and speak out against the injustices faced by Indigenous women today.

Her advocacy work is now integral to her mission as a titleholder. Callingbull aims to harness her platform to raise awareness regarding the alarming rates of missing and murdered Indigenous women. “I want the world to hear our voices. We are not just statistics; our lives matter,” she passionately declared.

Ashley has distinguished herself not only as a beauty queen but as a motivational speaker and an advocate for change. Her participation in pageants began in her own community, where she won various titles, allowing her to give back and inspire others.

Despite her hard-fought achievements, Ashley is not just seeking recognition for herself; she aims to uplift other Indigenous women and mentor those aspiring to follow in her footsteps. “If I can help just one girl, that’s a win,” she said, embodying the spirit of sisterhood and empowerment.

As Ashley continues to trailblaze her path, she is unequivocally positioned to make an indelible mark, ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard, recognized, and valued on a global scale. “I’m not just a token. I will always speak the truth and highlight our success,” she promised, leaving no doubt about her dedication to advocacy and representation.

In a world where visibility matters, Ashley Callingbull is not only a titleholder but a beacon of hope for countless individuals striving for equality and recognition. Her story is a powerful reminder that strength and resilience can change narratives, and her journey is just beginning.