History was made over the weekend as an Alberta woman was crowed as Mrs. Universe, making her the first Canadian and first First Nations person to win the event.
Ashley Callingbull is from Albert’s Enoch Cree Nation, and took home the title in Belarus on Saturday night. The 25-year-old, whose married name is Burnham, won the international competition that focuses on married contestants. Mrs. Universe began in 2007, and honours married women between the ages of 25 and 45 who have a family, career, and are involved with a significant cause.
Callingbull is a trained dancer and professional actress, and often models in traditional First Nations attire to showcase her heritage. During the competition, Callingbull wore a white buckskin dress and chose to sing a traditional song.
Her win has been applauded by people on social media calling her a success story, as well as an inspiration for other First Nation youth in Canada.
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