Pageant contestant raising funds for kids' surgeries

All the Easter treats available this time of year are a bit of an unwelcome temptation to third-year Laurentian University kinesiology student Jessie Must.

Must heads to Toronto in mid-May to take part in the Miss Universe Canada Pageant, a qualifier for the international Miss Universe Pageant.

“It's very nerve-wracking, because there's a bikini competition as well,” she laughs.

Must, 20, qualified to compete in the competition after being crowned Miss North Ontario last year.

She said she enjoys pageants because they're a great way to get involved in the community.

“You get to work with many charitable organizations,” Must said. “You build confidence, as well as just general public speaking skills.”

A case in point is a fundraising project she's undertaken in preparation for the Miss Universe Canada pageant.

She's organized an April 10 gala fundraiser supporting Operation Smile, a charity that pays for cleft palate and lip surgeries for children in developing countries. All contestants must raise funds for the charity.

“Basically they need surgery to better their quality of life,” Must said. “Usually they'll have cleft palate or cleft lip, which gives them a lot of disabilities so they can't really breathe properly, speak properly or eat.

“Also, there are communities within these developing countries who will isolate them because they look so different.”

The gala starts at 6 p.m. at the Caruso Club's lower hall, and includes entertainment by the Bluez Brotherz, Shane Greenwell and Pat Marcuccio, dinner and a silent auction. Participants are asked to wear black and white attire.

To purchase tickets, which cost $30 each, contact Must at [email protected], 705-929-4845 or 705-522-1268.