2015.12.01
Akiko Kato and Miriam Mai Kroll were selected as finalists for Miss World Japan 2015. Furthermore, Akiko Kato received the Judge's Special Award for the Miss World 2015 Japan Representative.
Miss World is the oldest of the three major international beauty pageants. Since the first competition was held in London, UK in 1951, it has been held annually for 65 years, making it a prestigious pageant that boasts the largest number of participating countries. The Miss World Organisation actively engages in charitable activities, including donations for poverty relief.
The slogan of Miss World is "Beauty with a Purpose." In addition to physical beauty, intelligence and personality are also part of the judging criteria. For this year's Miss World 2015 Japan Representative, 32 finalists were selected, and it was a remarkable achievement that two of them were SFC students.
Comment from Akiko Kato
I am very happy to have received the Miss World 2015 Judge's Special Award and the Beauty With a Purpose Award (an award given in recognition of social contribution activities). I have been active as the representative of the student division of "SPUTNIK," an international volunteer organization founded by TBS television announcer Junko Akisawa. Miss World also recognized these activities, which led to me receiving the BWP award. Before participating in Miss World, I was keenly aware of my limited ability to communicate and influence as a "mere student," but now I am delighted that I can contribute to society as a "Miss World award winner." I have also launched the "All Japan Yoga Federation - Keio Branch," and I hope to promote beauty and health through yoga.
Comment from Mai Kroll
I am very honored to have been selected as one of the 32 finalists from among 6,820 applicants. I graduated from an international school and have mastered German, English, and Japanese. I decided to apply because I wanted to use my language skills and background to become a bridge between Japan and the world as Miss World. The month and a half I spent as a finalist was an invaluable experience. I am also grateful for the opportunity to meet many different people, from whom I learned a great deal.
In the future, I want to continue to challenge myself with various things, learn, and grow during the remainder of my student life so that I can be of service to the world.
I will continue to do my best, making the most of this experience and never forgetting to be grateful for everything. I appreciate your continued support.
Source: General Affairs (Public Relations), Shonan Fujisawa Campus (SFC) Office