Pageant crowns Canadian as Miss Universe

The new Miss Universe is a model from Toronto, 23-year-old Natalie Glebova.

A 12-judge panel in Bangkok selected the Ryerson University graduate from among five finalists after a round of on-stage questions. There were entrants from 81 countries in the 54th annual pageant.

Glebova, who immigrated to Canada from Russia at age 12 with her parents, beat out runner-up Cynthia Olavarria after answering a question on her life's greatest challenges.

"I always try to maintain a positive outlook on life," she said. Keeping that positive attitude was most challenging, she added.

Glebova studies information technology management at Ryerson, and also plays and writes classical music on piano.

The blue-eyed brunette wore a white gown and stood with her parents on stage after the crowning.

"I feel like this is happening too fast and it's unreal," Glebova said. "It's just starting to sink in. I'm so much looking forward to the year's schedule."

Her goal this year as Miss Universe is to raise awareness and money for HIV/AIDS research.

The pageant created a touch of controversy with the Thai government two weeks ago after bikini-clad contestants were photographed with Wat Arun, the famous Temple of the Dawn, in the background.

Organizers removed the photos from the competition and its website.