Celebrated Media Icon Juliette Powell Dies at 54
Juliette Powell, a beloved Canadian media personality and tech thought leader, has died at 54 in New York. She passed away unexpectedly on June 3 due to complications from acute bacterial meningitis.
Known for her charm, intelligence, and striking presence, Powell was best known as the first Black woman crowned Miss Canada and a trailblazing VJ on MuchMusic. Her work left a lasting mark on both the beauty and broadcast industries in Canada.
From Miss Canada to Television Star
Powell made headlines in 1988 when she won the Miss Canada title. She was the first Black woman and mixed-race winner in the pageant’s 42-year history.
She later represented Canada at the Miss Universe pageant in 1989. At the time, Powell said she wanted to challenge racial bias in beauty contests and proudly serve as a role model for both Black and white Canadians.
“This is a great proof of multiculturalism in this country,” she told reporters after her win.
Lighting Up Canadian TV Screens
While studying business at McGill University, Powell began her TV career in 1992 at MusiquePlus, the French counterpart to MuchMusic. She hosted Bouge de là!, a weekly dance music show.
She later moved to MuchMusic’s English-language channel, where she hosted the iconic Electric Circus from 1996 to 2000. She also led other shows like French Kiss, all while studying economics at the University of Toronto.
Fans and colleagues remember her vibrant energy and French-Canadian charm. Former MuchMusic host Master T called her “a positive light” whose “energy will be missed.”
Breaking New Ground Beyond TV
After her success on TV, Powell shifted to business and tech. She worked as a reporter at CP24 and launched her own media company. Her interviews included major figures like Nelson Mandela, Janet Jackson, and Steven Spielberg.
Her academic path was equally impressive. Powell earned a sociology degree summa cum laude from Columbia University and joined NYU’s telecommunications faculty in 2021.
In 2024, she co-founded Kleiner Powell International, a consultancy focused on tech ethics and social impact.
Global Voice in Technology and Ethics
Powell served in advisory roles for top institutions, including the United Nations, World Economic Forum, and World Bank. She spoke worldwide on privacy, cybersecurity, and AI ethics.
She co-authored The AI Dilemma: 7 Principles for Responsible Technology in 2023. Her first book, 33 Million People in the Room, explored the power of social networking for business success.
Her voice reached across CBC, NBC, BBC, and other major networks, where she offered sharp insight on tech’s social impact.
A Life That Touched Many
Despite her wide-ranging career, Powell is remembered most for her warmth and presence. Her obituary highlights the deep friendships she formed and her ability to light up every room.
“Juliette had a magical way of drawing people in… her brilliant intelligence and gorgeous smile lit up every room she ever entered,” the statement read.
She leaves behind a legacy of courage, curiosity, and compassion—an example of grace that inspired people across media, business, and technology.
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