Think like a queen: Nova Stevens
Born in Kenya but of Sudanese descent, Nova came to Canada at six-years old without her parents. She was sent to live with relatives who would be able to give her a safer environment to grow up. Her journey has empowered Nova to be a strong, self-sufficient woman who is always true to her roots and her values.
She is one of the prominent leaders in the Black Lives Matter movement in Vancouver and believes human rights belong to everyone. Most recently, she was crowned Miss Universe Canada and will continue on to represent Canada at the global competition. Nova uses the platform to raise her voice and make a real impact.
We are so proud to have Nova as an ambassador and supporting Alice with a university scholarship.
Get to know our newest ambassador: Nova Stevens.
Why did you want to become an ambassador for One Girl Can?
Having been separated from my family for 22 years now, it was organizations such as One Girl Can that have helped me succeed here in Canada through education. I’m a firm believer in that “knowledge is power,” so I want to give back and pay it forward.
Why did you choose to support Alice’s scholarship?
I felt a connection with Alice.
I have friends that are single mothers. From being around them I’ve seen how difficult it is to raise a child on your own. Growing up with a single mother, who was struggling to put food on the table and pay for school fees, Alice has proven to be very driven and resilient. These are words I use to describe myself, so naturally I gravitated towards her.
It truly takes a village to raise a child and I want to be a part of that village that empowers young women to be the very best versions of themselves.
What role has education played in your life?
Education has given me knowledge of the world and the tools to succeed in my career path.
Who is your most impactful mentor and what’s the most important lesson you’ve learned from them?
I live by this quote from Oprah Winfrey, "Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness."
Those are the words of the woman that has inspired me from a very young age. I have not been fortunate to grow up with my immediate family. It was people like Oprah that I looked up to for inspiration. I remember always watching her talk show and listening to her advice carefully as if she was my mother.
From her, I learned that it’s not where you’re from, rather where you’re going. Your past does not define you, it strengthens you.
What is the legacy you want to leave behind?
I want to be remembered for challenging the status quo of what is considered beautiful.
Remember me as someone who has fearlessly used her voice to fight for equality. Remember me as a warrior who has peacefully fought for the rights of people of colour.
Lastly, an inspiration to people of colour who have been told the colour of their skin is a hindrance. I say to you, it is a badge of honour so you wear it with pride.