Solange Tuyishime, photographed in Ottawa, is a humanitarian, entrepreneur, and CEO of Elevate International. She is also a UNICEF Canada Ambassador and co-founder of Naylah’s Legacy, a charity supporting premature infants and maternal health. Photo:
Solange Tuyishime’s journey to Ottawa began thousands of kilometres away, shaped by war, displacement, and resilience. Born in East Africa, she and her family escaped genocide and violence, arriving in Canada as refugees when she was a teenager. What followed was a remarkable story of reinvention — one that has made her a compelling advocate for women, girls, and children not just in Ottawa, but around the world.
Now based in Ottawa, Tuyishime leads Elevate International, a non-profit she founded to support the leadership and economic advancement of women and girls. The organization runs programs ranging from school workshops to national summits that bring together youth, professionals, and policymakers. Her work reflects a clear focus: creating opportunities for others to lead and succeed.
“Ottawa gave me my start,” says Tuyishime. “It’s where I found my voice, where I built my family, and where I committed myself to helping others do the same.”
Her story has captured national attention. A former Miss Canada International (2006), Miss Galaxy Canada (2011), and Mrs. Canada (2017), Tuyishime used pageants not as personal platforms but as public megaphones — to raise awareness, rally support, and represent the voices of those too often ignored.
As a UNICEF Canada Ambassador for over 15 years, she’s travelled to more than 25 countries advocating for access to clean water, education, maternal health, and emergency support for children. Yet she says some of her most rewarding work happens right here in Ottawa.
“Whether I’m on a global stage or speaking at a local school in Vanier or Orleans, the message is the same: you matter, your voice counts, and leadership starts where you are,” she says.
Her leadership is also deeply personal. After the tragic loss of one of her newborn triplet daughters, Tuyishime and her husband Oumar created Naylah’s Legacy, a charity that has raised over $2.3 million to support premature babies and mothers across Canada. In total, she has helped raise more than $3.6 million for causes supporting women and children.
At home in Ottawa, Tuyishime is a proud mother to three daughters and an active member of her community. She regularly partners with local organizations, speaks at regional events, and mentors emerging leaders across the city. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, Ottawa’s Top 40 Under 40, and Business Woman of the Year.
“Ottawa isn’t just where I live — it’s part of who I am,” she says. “This city welcomed me, shaped me, and gave me the space to lead. I’ll never take that for granted.”
In a time when leadership often feels distant or performative, Solange Tuyishime leads by example. Grounded in community, driven by purpose, and shaped by lived experience, she is proof that a life touched by hardship can still be one of joy, impact, and extraordinary generosity.
Photo: Lindsey Gibeau Photography
