Ashley Callingbull facts for kids

Ashley Callingbull (born October 21, 1989) is a Canadian model and activist. She made history as the first Indigenous First Nations woman to be featured as a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model. Ashley also won the title of Miss Universe Canada in 2024. She then represented Canada at the Miss Universe 2024 competition, where she placed in the Top 12.

Ashley and her stepfather competed together on The Amazing Race Canada 4. They also took part in a local youth fundraiser called the Amazing Race Devon, where they finished in second place.

About Ashley Callingbull

Early Life and Education

Ashley Callingbull was born in the Enoch Cree Nation, which is a First Nations community near Edmonton, Alberta. Her parents are from the Cree Indigenous group. From a young age, Ashley showed great talent and leadership. By the time she was 10 years old, she had already won all the princess crowns in her community.

Ashley finished high school when she was 16. After that, she started university. She studied different subjects like science, communications, and arts, with a special focus on acting for television.

Pageant Journey and Achievements

Ashley has represented Canada in many international beauty pageants. In September 2010, she was chosen as Miss Canada for the Miss Friendship International Pageant in Hubei, China. Later that year, she also represented Canada at the Queen of the World Final in Germany. In October 2011, she competed for Canada at Miss Humanity International in Barbados.

In 2015, Ashley won the title of Mrs. Universe. During this competition, she wore a special dress designed by Lesley Hampton. This dress helped to bring attention to the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women in Canada.

Using Her Voice for Change

Ashley uses her public platform to speak up for important causes. In 2015, she encouraged First Nations communities to vote in the federal election. She wanted to make sure that the concerns of Indigenous people were heard by the government.

In May 2022, Ashley achieved another historic milestone. She became the first Indigenous First Nations woman to be featured in the famous Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. This was a big step for representation in the modeling world.

Acting Roles

Besides modeling and advocacy, Ashley is also an actress. She has appeared in television shows like Blackstone. She also had a role in the film The Great Salish Heist.

Ashley's Personal Story

Overcoming Challenges

Ashley has shared that her childhood was not always easy. She said she "never had the perfect childhood everyone dreams of." She was mostly raised by her mother and grandparents. Even though it was difficult, she believes these experiences made her the strong person she is today.

Ashley was drawn to the Mrs. Universe competition because it focused on helping people who have faced difficult situations at home. She felt she could connect with others and use her voice to speak for those who might not be able to speak for themselves.

Finding Strength in Culture

Ashley also credits her First Nation culture for helping her heal and find herself. Connecting with her heritage has been an important part of her journey.

Awards and Recognition

Ashley Callingbull has received many awards for her work and dedication:

• In 2015, she received the Role Model Award from the United Nations.
• In 2019, she won the Youth Award at the Indspire Awards.
• In 2016, she was inducted into the Circle Of Honour at the Esquao Awards.
• Ashley was also named one of the Top 10 Power women in Canada.

See also

In Spanish: Ashley Burnham para niños