On September 14th, Hokkaido junior high schooler Mioka Sakamoto (14) was crowned the “2015 Miss Teen Japan”, which is the teen Miss Contest of “Miss Universe Japan”. 4,522 people applied to take part in the event, but Sakamoto took the crown. She tearfully smiled, “I’m filled with so much happiness! To my dad, grandpa, and grandma who are watching from Hokkaido, I hope you’re proud of me.”

This is the 4th annual “Miss Teen Japan” contest, which is aimed at teens from 13-17 years of age who are unable to partake in the “Miss Universe Japan” contest due to the 18-26 age restriction. The 17 finalists went on stage to perform and Sakamoto won by appearing on stage with a folding fan and doing a sharp dance that overwhelmed the venue.

Sakamoto gratefully commented, “I didn’t do this by myself, I was able to win through the support of my family and friends. One day I want to become a talent who is known throughout the world.”

(via: Mainichi)