Cynthia Michelle Kyryliuk is a woman celebrated as one of Edmonton’s most beautiful individuals. She achieved the prestigious title of “Miss Canada.” Learn about the life of this star and how her journey unfolded in this article on edmontonka.
Childhood and Education
Cynthia Michelle Kyryliuk was born on January 9, 1962, in Saskatoon. Her biological mother abandoned her shortly after birth. A few months later, she was adopted by a woman named Elizabeth, who attended the same church as Cynthia’s birth mother. Cynthia’s biological mother had been a teenage mother whose parents opposed her pregnancy, leading to her decision to give Cynthia up for adoption.
Elizabeth, along with Cynthia and her 10 other adopted children, moved to Vancouver. Raising the children alone without a husband, Elizabeth only remarried when Cynthia turned 12. Her new husband embraced the large family, taking responsibility for all 11 children.
After settling in Vancouver, Cynthia studied for three years at Okanagan College. An active young woman, she pursued judo professionally, winning two championships. After completing her college education, she enrolled at Simon Fraser University, where she spent several more years studying.
Cynthia graduated in 1982 and relocated to Edmonton. In her new city, she continued to excel in judo and gymnastics.
Early Career and the Miss Universe Pageant
Cynthia’s first serious job was as a teacher in Kelowna. Additionally, she worked as an aerobics instructor at a local club in Edmonton.
Her first step into the world of beauty pageants occurred in 1983 when she competed in the “Miss Edmonton” contest. She won the title, sparking her ambition to pursue more opportunities in this field.
In 1984, she participated in the 33rd Miss Universe Pageant, held at the James L. Knight Center in Miami, Florida. Initially, the pageant was planned to take place in Edmonton, but due to funding shortages and a ban on the event, it was relocated to Miami.
The pageant featured 81 contestants from various countries. Cynthia Kyryliuk joined the competition and made an indelible impression. Her beauty and charisma allowed her to overcome her competitors and secure the title of “Miss Universe.” Friends, colleagues, and admirers across the globe celebrated her victory.
After her win, Cynthia’s life transformed into a whirlwind of activity. She was invited to numerous programs, appeared on television, and gave interviews. Women worldwide admired and aspired to emulate her.
When her biological mother learned about Cynthia’s victory in the international pageant, she attempted to reconnect with her daughter. However, Cynthia could not forgive her mother for abandoning her as a child.
A Career in Television and Fitness
In 1985, Cynthia decided to pursue a career as a television presenter. She joined a television station and began hosting a program called Daily Workouts for Women. In this program, she taught women exercises designed to achieve a beautiful figure. The program aired on multiple television channels. During her time as a host, the channels she collaborated with earned millions of dollars due to a large viewer base.
During her television career, Cynthia appeared in three films: Sign of Cain, Pink Chiquitas, and Night. However, after her experiences in film, she realized acting was not her passion. She returned to her fitness career, continuing to inspire and train other women.
The Personal Life of Miss Universe
In September 2007, Cynthia Kyryliuk married English rock singer and songwriter Paul Rodgers. The couple had been together for over 10 years but had not formalized their relationship. Their wedding was a surprise to many, held outdoors in the presence of close friends and family.
The couple lives happily together. Cynthia and Paul share a love for animals, raising a Doberman and seven cats in their home. The couple does not have children.