Chelsey Smith - Miss Universe Canada 2012 Profile

Chelsey Smith | Miss Universe Canada 2012

Age: 23

Height: 5'9"

Hometown: Edmonton

BIO: Chelsey Smith is a student of Professional Communications at Royal Roads University where she also is the President of the Students Association, and Chair of the Social Committee.

She has a background in journalism, and hopes to work in the communications and culture sector. Chelsey is an advocate for natural beauty and self-esteem.

She is also an active volunteer and engaged citizen who is dedicated to universal education, literacy, and equality.

She enjoys yoga, health, and fashion, in addition to spending time with family and friends, volunteering, and academics.

She loves adventure, meeting new people, and is passionate about lifestyle, learning, and travel. Chelsey strives to be a positive role model for women, and inspire others to embrace their inner beauty.

Languages spoken fluently (please include your native language if English is not your native language).

I speak English and am studying French.

What are your interests and what do you enjoy doing the most?

I am interested in literature, art, social behaviour and the humanities. I enjoy connecting with people and making a difference. My free time is spent practicing yoga, playing with my dog, Gigi, and laughing with friends and family!

List any special training you have had (music, art, drama, dance, etc.)

I was a ballet dancer for 13 years.

In what sports, if any, have you participated?

My participation in sports has largely been through dance; ballet, tap, jazz, modern, and hip-hop.

Name one person, other than your parents, who has had the most influence on your life. Why?

My Nana has been a great influence to me, showing me that “beauty is as beauty does”. This mantra guides how I move through life and the decisions I make. Her wisdom and grace inspire me, and her words remind me that a truly beautiful person is only beautiful due to the way s/he carries his/herself, and because of his/her actions.

What is your proudest personal accomplishment (other than participating in this pageant)?

A personal accomplishment that I am particularly proud of would be my journey to Ghana West Africa as a volunteer, where I worked to create social programs for young women, and provide education and support for those infected and affected by HIV.

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 experience I encountered would be volunteering at n orphanage in Ghana, and feeding children a traditional dish, fufu, with my hands. It was so beautiful and unique, to give to another in that way, I have never felt that way before.
The most interesting thing about me may be that with a background in journalism, I am dedicated to people’s stories and defending truth and justice, and also aspire to work as an international correspondent.

What is your career ambition and what are you doing or plan to do to accomplish that goal?

I aspire to have a high-power career where I have the capacity to influence others in a positive manner, and work to better society. I am currently working to accomplish this through my education at Royal Roads University, My volunteer work and networking, and will continue to work towards this goal with post-graduate studies, international volunteering, and mentoring.

What would be your “dream job” in life?

My “dream job” would be working to prevent conflict and promote equity in the communications and culture sector.

Are you currently a student?

Yes

If yes, where?

Royal Roads University.

Area of study:

Professional Communications.

Are you currently employed?

Yes

If yes, what is your occupation?

I work as a writer/editor for Parlour Life magazine, and a communications/marketing consultant at Benefit Strategies.

Describe where you were raised and what your childhood was like.

My mother, Jennifer, and my father, Daryl Smith, raised me in Edmonton, Alberta. I am the middle child of three children, and a very fortunate girl. As a child I spent much of my time dancing and working hard at school where I played hand bells, sang in the choir, was an active student. I look back on my childhood fondly and think of warm summer days playing at my cabin in rural Alberta with my family, and tobogganing in the winters with my friends.

List any interesting or unusual jobs you may have had.

It may be interesting that I worked as a receptionist at a retirement home, and as a certified health councilor. I also created and taught workshops on inner beauty, self-esteem, and style to pre-teens.

List any volunteering you have done.

I volunteered at The Missionaries of Charity Orphanage, Ghana, West Africa.
Provided Schooling/Office work at Light for Children, Ghana, West Africa

Promotional modeling, and Hosting for many charities inclusive of The Stollery Children’s Hospital, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, and many local Arts based initiatives.
Engage Volunteer, with Edmonton Next Generation.

What is your most unusual talent?

Leadership!
I have great multi-tasking and leadership skills! I love sitting on boards, and being involved in everything I can get my hands on! I am currently the President of The Royal Roads Student Association, The Chair of the Social Committee, and like to be involved in creating community and organizing events, charities, and change!

Where is the most interesting place you have been?

The most interesting place I have been would either be hiking and elephant watching in Mole National Park, Volta Region, Ghana, or snorkeling in the Mayan Riviera.

What do you hope to be doing in ten years?

In ten years I hope to working in communications and culture, travelling, volunteering, and creating positive change in the world.

Is there anything you would like to add that we haven’t asked?
I am dedicated to natural beauty. I believe that media education and awareness is extremely important, and that all women should value strength, truth, independence and critical thinking over constructs of beauty. Fulfillment does not come from the products and illusions that are shown in magazines, but rather from being true to oneself, spreading kindness, and personal growth.

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