The search for Miss Universe Canada 2017 is kicking off today in Windsor.

Young women from across southwestern Ontario are vying for their chance to advance to the national pageant to capture the crown.

The regional selection gets underway today from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Mezzo Ristorante on Erie Street East.

Candidates will undergo an interview process.

Successful candidates will advance to the Western Ontario Pageant, which will be held in Windsor this spring.

The Top 5 and other national delegates will earn a spot in the Miss Universe Canada 2017 pageant in Toronto this June.