Ashley Callingbull is more than just a pretty face. Hailing from Enoch Cree Nation in Alberta, Canada, the 34-year-old is a survivor, model, actress, activist, pageant queen, motivational speaker, in-game host, brand ambassador, soon-to-be published author, dedicated wife, dog lover, and inspiration to Native women and girls everywhere. She has amassed an impressive list of firsts, including being the first Indigenous woman to hold a Miss Canada title, to win Mrs. Universe, and to be featured in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
Sure, Callingbull is certainly proud of these achievements, but her motivation isn’t racking up accolades. Rather, it’s showing Native youth that they can overcome any odds and pursue their dreams — just like she did.
“I didn’t let living through childhood trauma, poverty, and sexual abuse define me,” she says. “When you’re going through that, you feel like you can’t dare to dream. But when my mom and I eventually made our escape, I
