Ashley Callingbull is a name known far beyond Canada. She is a model, actress, and volunteer—and the first woman from a small Indigenous tribe in Canada to win the title of “Miss Universe 2015.” To achieve unprecedented success in her career, she had to navigate a challenging path and overcome numerous obstacles. Learn more about how Ashley made her mark on the world at edmontonka.com.
A Difficult Childhood
Ashley Callingbull comes from the Enoch Cree Nation, an Indigenous community west of Edmonton. When she was five years old, she moved with her mother to live with her stepfather in Maskwacis, located about 70 kilometers south of Edmonton. From that moment on, Ashley endured horrifying events that deeply impacted her psychological well-being. Her stepfather was unemployed, drank heavily, and was abusive toward her mother. Even worse, he regularly sexually assaulted Ashley and threatened to kill her and her mother if she told anyone. In one of her interviews, Callingbull revealed that after five years of abuse and violence, she and her mother managed to escape and report him to the police. At the age of 10, Ashley testified against her abuser.
During her teenage years, Ashley struggled with thoughts of turning to alcohol and drugs to numb her emotional pain. However, her grandparents and the Cree culture helped her overcome these impulses. She also promised herself that she would conquer show business and achieve global fame.
Developing a Successful Career
From her teenage years, Callingbull began participating in beauty pageants, winning various titles. Ashley holds numerous crowns, but these accolades didn’t come easily, as she often faced racism and hostility.
In 2015, she became the first Indigenous Canadian to win the “Miss Universe” pageant, competing under the name Ashley Callingbull-Burnham. Before her win, no Indigenous woman had ever achieved this title in the pageant’s nearly 70-year history. She was criticized for being “too political,” but Ashley remained focused on her goals. Soon, she began attending fashion weeks, gracing the covers of magazines like Fashion and Chatelaine, and representing brands such as Hillberg & Berk and Dress For Success. In 2020, Ashley became the face of Nike N7’s collection.
After earning her degree from Concordia University, Ashley dedicated herself to her modeling and acting career, securing roles in films such as Blackstone, Tribal, and The Great Salish Heist.
In 2022, she became the first Indigenous woman to appear in Sports Illustrated. Alongside collaborating with prestigious publications, designers, and brands, Ashley also worked as a television host for sports events.
Advocate and Activist
Beyond her creative endeavors, Callingbull often highlights issues like domestic violence against Indigenous women, environmental protection, and other causes on social media. She dreams of establishing a foundation to provide assistance and shelter to women and children affected by domestic violence. In 2022, Ashley received the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal for her contributions to Indigenous communities and Canada.
Despite her busy schedule, the model found time to build a family. In 2021, she married hockey player Wacey Rabbit. Now a devoted wife and happy woman, Ashley continues to delight her fans by collaborating with renowned brands and appearing on television. Her story is a testament to resilience, determination, and strength of character.