Serena Bhardwaj is a driven leader whose resilience and passion for animal welfare and community impact have shaped her into an inspiring force for change. She holds an MBA in Project Management and a Bachelor of Arts in Honours International Relations, graduating with distinction. Serena’s global perspective was enriched by her role as a university ambassador in the European Union Study Abroad Program, where she had the opportunity to engage with diplomats, explore EU culture and politics, and deepen her understanding of international relations. Serena’s unwavering dedication to growth is evident in her diverse achievements, from becoming a certified Junior IT Analyst to earning membership in the prestigious Golden Key International Honour Society for her academic excellence. Her accolades also include the “Gold W” Award of Excellence for her contributions to leadership and community service. Serena’s career reflects her ability to lead with purpose. From advancing regulatory efforts as a consultant to creating innovative partnerships, she consistently drives meaningful outcomes. Serena’s journey as a leader is defined by her ability to create connections and inspire others. Whether mentoring students to help them realize their potential, collaborating on innovative partnerships, or leading as the former president of Project Red to support health awareness initiatives, she has consistently championed growth and positive change. Her personal experience as both a mentor and mentee fuels her deep appreciation for the power of guidance and the transformative impact it has on personal and professional journeys. At the heart of Serena’s life is her devotion to animal welfare. Her advocacy began with an older rescued cat named Lexis, whose resilience inspired her to see animals as profound teachers of strength and perseverance. This experience deepened her resolve to speak for the voiceless and fuelled her mission to create lasting change. Following in her brother’s footsteps, who shares her passion for animal welfare; Serena has actively fostered and re-homed numerous cats, embodying her values through action. Serena’s commitment extends beyond her personal efforts. She is passionate about supporting Runaways Farm Sanctuary, her charity of choice, and has collaborated with the Glocal Foundation, a national not-for-profit organization promoting engagement through local participation and global understanding in Canada, to launch a legacy animal welfare project in Windsor. These initiatives reflect her belief in the power of community-driven solutions to create a better world for animals and humans alike. Through every endeavour, Serena demonstrates that leadership is not only about achieving goals but also about inspiring others to rise to their fullest potential. She is beyond grateful for the opportunity to leverage the pageant platform to amplify her advocacy for animal welfare and community impact. Serena channels her global outlook, compassionate heart, and relentless drive to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves, leaving a lasting, positive impact on the world. Her journey demonstrates the transformative power of perseverance, inspiring others to create meaningful change.