Introduction

Sophia Shi, a spirited 19-year-old from Vancouver, is gearing up to represent her city and a vital cause at the upcoming Miss Teen Universe International 2025 pageant. This vibrant young woman isn’t just about glitz and glamour; she is on a mission to make waves in the world of sustainable fashion.

Sophia's Journey

Sophia's journey into the pageant realm began last August, and she quickly realized that this platform could be a powerful way to amplify her message about fashion sustainability. As a business student at UBC Sauder, she recognizes the intersection of entrepreneurship, fashion, and environmental advocacy.

Advocacy for Sustainable Fashion

“My main goal in this competition is to raise awareness about sustainable fashion and climate justice,” Sophia states passionately. Her commitment to this cause was sparked by a life-changing visit to a factory in Xinjiang, China, where she witnessed first-hand the detrimental impacts of fast fashion not only on the environment but also on worker rights and welfare. "This experience really impacted me," she reflects. "I hope to advocate for workers on a global scale."

Vancouver Sustainable Fashion Week

Sophia's engagement in the fashion industry extends beyond personal ambition; she is the founder of Vancouver Sustainable Fashion Week, an initiative designed to promote environmentally conscious practices within the fashion community. Unlike many of her peers, who may simply seek the crown, Sophia views her participation in the pageant as an opportunity to educate and inspire change. "It's really beyond a crown and a sash. It’s about our purposes and our platforms," she explains. While each contestant champions different causes—ranging from mental health to women’s health—Sophia aims to shift the narrative around fast fashion.

Competing at Miss Teen Universe