MINA Khtaria of Surrey is all set for May’s Miss Universe Canada 2014 competition from May 17-24 in Toronto where she will be representing British Columbia. She will compete with over 50 delegates from across Canada.
The winner will represent Canada at the Miss Universe 2014 pageant in the fall and will be following in the steps of Miss Universe Canada 2005, Natalie Glebova who went on to win the Miss Universe 2005 title, and Miss Universe Canada 2006, Alice Panikian who went on to be a 6th finalist at the Miss Universe competition in Los Angeles, and Inga Skaya, Samantha Tajik, Mariana Valente, Elena Semikina, Chelsae Durocher and Adwoa Yamoah who represented Canada in the Miss Universe competition in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 respectively. Riza Santos – Miss Universe Canada 2013 – will be on hand for the entire Miss Universe Canada 2014 pageant to coach the delegates, and discuss with them what the year as Miss Universe Canada entails.
MINA was born and raised in the small town of Port Alberni, B.C., as the youngest daughter to newly immigrated parents. As a first generation South Asian, family and heritage have always been important to Mina. The influence of her close-knit community has always kept her grounded despite the adversities of the world around her.
The 23-year old has been a CFL cheerleader for the BC Lions, hosted a South Asian T.V. talk show and contributed to the health and food columns for a Canadian ethnic magazine. She has also walked the runways in Mumbai and attended one of the most prestigious acting schools in India. Mina was recently selected to represent Canada in international beauty competitions alongside 60 women from all over the globe in Seoul, Korea, and in Sanya, China.
While completing her bachelor’s degree in sociology, Mina’s desire to connect with other cultures led her to western Africa where she taught English and volunteered in an orphanage for six months. Helping others is something that Mina has and will always strive to do.
In her spare time, Mina loves to be active with hiking, running and swimming. She is a true Vancouver-ite, loving yoga and cheering for the Vancouver Canucks. She also has a passion for baking and spending time with her family and friends.
Mina believes in the value of hard work and natural beauty. She wishes with all her heart that young women will regain their confidence and have the passion to follow their dreams wherever they lead. She views life with no limits and wants to share her unique perspective with others.
Going forward into Miss Universe Canada 2014, Mina is no stranger to the stage. She has the experience, poise, grace and beauty that are expected of the titleholder. Mina recognizes that the opportunities available to young women in Canada are unique in the world and wants to lead by example to promote a positive self-image and the value of a healthy lifestyle.
