Model Priyaali Kanti On Miss World Canada, Performing Arts, And ‘Project INDigreat’

She’s representing Canada proudly!

Model Priyaali is a perfect example of accomplished models in the industry. She was even recently selected to be a National Finalist in the upcoming Miss World Canada pageant. Wish her good luck!

We had the amazing honor of talking with Priyalli about her philanthropy, biggest role model, and more!

What was your inspiration to become an actress and a model?

P: “The beauty of expression and voice along with the ability to be in the shoes of a hypothetical character is what makes acting and modeling so inspiring.”

Why did you come up with Project INDigreat? What do you hope to achieve with your new project? 

P: “Immigrating from India myself, I have brought a part of my culture to Canada. I love telling others about India’s diversity because it is similar to Canada’s. However, when I see other Indian immigrants who were not exposed to a similar contemporary lifestyle as mine growing up, and listen to their stories of struggle, I feel the need to impart some of my learnings through my personal experience in the past and also help them embrace their own cultural identity, which can be tough to do in a foreign land. Doing so is the first step to helping Indians “seamlessly integrate” into Canada. The government of Canada has done a lot of initiatives and programs to provide financial support to immigrants to battle the concerns above, however, through INDigreat I am focusing on supplementing the government’s efforts by creating a forum for the newly arrived Indian community that can help them with a more seamless transition easing any emotional hurdles like language barriers and culture shock.”

How has the process been gearing up for Miss World Canada?

P: “A big thank you to my sponsors – Claremar Delivery Service, Okanagan Home Centre and Pathway to Canada as without them I would not be able to be a part of this experience. For me, it is not only about winning the title, but the journey I go through to prepare myself. Firstly – I joined the gym and started taking my health/fitness more seriously! I started developing my Beauty with a Purpose Project- which is the heart and soul of Miss World Canada. The interviewing skills and public speaking skills are also important skills of a potential titleholder. Therefore, practicing quick thinking is also a part of my training. Along with the East Meets West children’s foundation, which I have been a part of for 5 years, we have decided to donate a total of $1000 to the Make-A-Wish foundation.” 

As someone who has worked in the beauty/entertainment industry, what have been your biggest hurdles during your career?

P: “People don’t always believe in you – and that is okay! The most important thing is that you enjoy what you do and believe in yourself. Performing arts is a competitive industry to break into but as long as you persevere, everything will fall into place.”

If you win Miss World Canada, what do you hope to accomplish with your new platform?

P: “Even though INDigreat focuses on the struggles of Indian immigrants moving to Canada, I do not want to sideline the difficulties of immigrants from other countries. Canada is known for embracing people with open arms, so the long-term success of Project INDigreat is inspiring people from other communities and background to help immigrants.”

What has been the most exciting thing about Miss World Canada?

P: “Meeting woman from all over the country is the most exciting part. I love listening to everyone’s stories and what makes them unique.”

Do you have any role models that have helped you get where you are today and if so, who are they and what have they done to inspire you?

P: “My biggest role model in the pageantry is Maria Thattil – Miss Universe Australia 2020.

What is one quote you try to live by?

P: “Practice like you have never won, Perform like you never lost….”

Interview Conducted By: Gurnoor Bhatti