In this series of short profiles, Capital Current introduces key persons of influence in the city to the community.
Who is she?
Solange Tuyishime Keita is the founder, president and CEO of Elevate International, an organization aimed at helping women and girls become leaders in the community. She also serves as a UNICEF Canada Ambassador, advocating for the rights of women and children worldwide.
What’s her background?
Tuyishime Keita’s commitment to social issues stems from her own experience. Born in East Africa, she survived civil war and genocide, moving through Rwanda, Uganda, Congo and Kenya, living in refugee camps before immigrating to Canada at age 13.
In Canada, she pursued degrees in journalism and public administration. “That way I could facilitate change with both words and action,” Tuyishime Keita told FACES Magazine.
What is she known for in Ottawa?
Tuyishime Keita is best known for her leadership with Elevate International, leading efforts to break down systemic barriers to women’s leadership and economic independence. Beyond community leadership, she has also competed in national pageants, including Miss Universe Canada 2025, using her platform to highlight women’s empowerment, resilience and gender equality.
In 2023, she was inducted into the Order of Ottawa, where Mayor Mark Sutcliffe praised her ability to “find positives and hope in some of the most difficult times.”
What do people say about her?
Those who know her personally describe her as a force for change. Suzanne Mann, a close friend, says “she has such a big heart that is also full of compassion and courage and strength. She’s not a pushover. She will speak her mind and stand up for the people and projects that she believes in.”
Mann said Tuyishime Keita’s charisma is undeniable. “When Solange walks into a room … people feel not only her outward beauty but her inner beauty as well.”
What’s something people may not know about her?
While many know Tuyishime Keita for her public presence and community leadership, she is also a passionate baker. “I invent desserts in my mind — and bring them to life in under an hour,” she told Miss Universe Canada. “Baking is my love language.”
