Natalie Glebova

Toronto’s Natalie Glebova was crowned Miss Universe 2005 in Bangkok, Thailand, on May 30th, 2005. This coveted moment was quite an accomplishment for Natalie; just 11 years earlier she and her parents immigrated to Canada with only one wicker case filled with their belongings.

Glebova was born in a small coastal town in Russia and moved to Toronto when she was 12. A rhythmic gymnast throughout her childhood and adolescence, Natalie was a member of local and regional teams and competed in a number of tournaments growing up. She is also a classical pianist and composer and has studied at the Professional Music School in Russia.

Prior to being crowned Miss Universe 2005, Natalie was a motivational speaker, model and a fundraiser. She recently received a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology Management and Marketing from Ryerson University and aspires to be a business owner in the communications and/or public relations field.

Glebova’s year-long reign began with a highly publicized trip to South Africa where she publicly took an HIV test, setting an example for the world regarding the importance of getting tested. On the same trip Natalie met with Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and visited children living with HIV and AIDS. She will continue her year as Miss Universe traveling the globe to various countries including India and Colombia working as an ambassador for organizations such as the Global Health Council, amfAR, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, and God’s Love We Deliver.