Riza Santos

Riza Santos made headlines around the world as she was declared the rightful winner of Miss Universe Canada. She has made guest appearances on various television programs such as CNN, Australia Today, eTalk, ABS-CBN, and has been featured by People Magazine. With a strong work ethic and tenacity, and a unique variety of skills, she has attained much. Riza is of Filipino, Spanish, and Chinese descent. She was born to immigrant parents in Canada. Many members of her family immigrated to Canada as graduate students with prestigious scholarships; and she comes from a family with a deep appreciation for academia and education. Early in life she was taught the value of critical thought, and the pursuit of knowledge. It was her grandmother's courage and valor during the Second World War that inspired Riza to join the Canadian Forces. As a reservist, she balanced commitments to the Military with her active community involvement and school. The mental fortitude and capabilities she had, however, revealed themselves during the grueling training as a Soldier. In addition, the life lessons she learned prepared her for the fast-paced world of international business and entertainment. Riza worked alongside the Canadian International Development Agency in the Philippines. Shortly after her arrival, she was cast in the highly popular prime time, family-oriented show, Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Edition 2. After 84 days in the Big Brother house, Riza garnered half a million votes and was declared the Second Big Placer. She drew in a large fan base and became an instant celebrity in the Philippines, receiving offers to do magazine covers, endorsements, billboards, television shows, and movies. Riza was cast as the leading lady for the Philippine block-buster hit movies. She also became an international television host for the A.P.T. in Manila and Macau. From being named OK! Magazine Philippines' "Most Beautiful People" to walking the runway at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Moscow, Russia, Riza has developed a following and is a well-known authority on the Canadian Pageant scene. She has a fan-base in the pageant community and was a household name in the Philippines. With an already well-crafted image that has been proven and fostered over her long career in the public eye, she has a deep awareness and insight into herself and the world around her.