Miss Universe Canada has pledged to implement significant changes to its pageant structure after the 2024 winner, Ashley Callingbull, publicly addressed instances of cultural appropriation by contestants. During the pageant finals held on Aug. 8, Callingbull, who is Plains Cree and from the Enoch Cree Nation, paused the proceedings before the announcement of the top 20 contestants to speak with National Director Sonny Borrelli on stage. While she described her role as the first Indigenous First Nations Miss Universe Canada as a great honor, she noted that mistakes had occurred.
Callingbull pointed to the national costume competition held on Aug. 4, where contestant Karisa Haverkamp appeared wearing a feathered headdress and Jasleen Kaily wore mukluks. Additionally, Haverkamp displayed a red painted hand on her cheek, a symbol associated with missing and murdered Indigenous women. Callingbull told the audience she had witnessed these costumes on video and immediately contacted the organization, which responded right away. She emphasized that at this point in 2026, the organization must prioritize education and reconciliation to ensure all cultures are honored with respect. She noted that part of reconciliation is to educate, learn, understand, and move forward in a good way.
In response to the concerns, Borrelli announced that Callingbull will serve as a cultural liaison for future competitions. The organization issued a statement on Aug. 7 acknowledging that any offense caused was unintentional. They noted that the national costume segment is intended to celebrate heritage and identity, but they recognized the need for deep care and continuous evaluation. To prevent future issues, the pageant is actively implementing a comprehensive Costume Guide to set clear standards for all future cycles. The organization thanked Callingbull for her guidance, advice, and assistance in resolving the matter.
Both contestants involved in the incident addressed the situation on social media. Haverkamp acknowledged on Instagram that her outfit caused hurt and offense to the Indigenous community. Kaily also stated on an Instagram story that her intention was never to disrespect or misrepresent Indigenous culture, but rather to celebrate one of Canada's First Peoples. Following the conclusion of the pageant events, Aslihan Morali was crowned Miss Universe Canada 2026 on Aug. 8. She is scheduled to compete in the Miss Universe pageant in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Nov. 24.
The organization's website previously described the national costume segment as a celebration of Canadian culture and heritage, combined with creativity, where each delegate must showcase a unique costume, dress, or outfit inspired by Canada’s traditions, symbols, and history. The new guidelines aim to ensure that every future presentation is thoughtful and respectful.
