Ashley Callingbull

Ashley Callingbull (born October 21, 1989) is a Canadian model, pageant titleholder, actress, and Indigenous rights advocate. Hailing from the Enoch Cree Nation in Alberta, Canada, she made history as the first First Nations woman to win the title of Mrs. Universe in 2015 and later became the first Indigenous woman to win Miss Universe Canada in 2024. Renowned for combining her public career with community activism, she has used her platform to raise global awareness about Indigenous youth, social justice, and women's rights.

Pageantry and Modeling Career

Callingbull began participating in pageants as a young woman, using competition platforms to share her heritage and cultural pride. In 2015, she represented Canada at the Mrs. Universe competition in Belarus, capturing the crown and gaining international prominence. Her historic victory allowed her to highlight issues facing Indigenous communities in Canada. In 2022, she broke additional boundaries by becoming the first First Nations woman featured as a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model. Continuing her pageant legacy, Callingbull competed in and won the Miss Universe Canada 2024 crown, going on to place in the Top 12 at the international Miss Universe 2024 competition.

Television, Hosting, and Public Speaking

Beyond pageantry and fashion modeling, Callingbull has established a multifaceted career in television and media. As an actress, she appeared in the Canadian television drama series Blackstone as Sheila Delaronde, as well as in productions such as Tribal, Acting Good, and the film The Great Salish Heist. In 2016, she and her stepfather participated in the fourth season of The Amazing Race Canada. She has served as an in-game host for major sports franchises including the Canadian Football League's Edmonton Elks and the National Lacrosse League. Additionally, Callingbull is an international keynote speaker who has delivered talks at Harvard University, TEDx events, and WE Day.

Advocacy and Personal Life

Callingbull is widely recognized for her community work and advocacy on behalf of First Nations people across North America. Her efforts in promoting youth empowerment and raising awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women have earned her numerous accolades, including the United Nations Role Model Award, the Indspire Youth First Nations Award, and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal. Born and raised in Alberta, she married professional ice hockey player Wacey Rabbit in September 2021. She maintains an active presence on social media where she shares insights into her modeling projects, cultural heritage, and advocacy work.