Join Us For The Next
Mrs International Pageant
July 23rd and 24th , 2026
IN Chicago (Skokie), Illinois
Ren
1. Which celebrity do you think you look like?
My name is Ren, which is already my stage name. “Ren” means lotus. A lotus grows through muddy water to bloom into a beautiful flower—just like life. Even when things seem unclear, we grow through hardship. I chose this name to remind myself to blossom beautifully, no matter what surrounds me.
2. Which do your prefer? Talking on the phone or texting?
I wish I could have attended Michael Jackson’s wedding. I truly admired his love for children and his vision for world peace. Though it never happened, I imagine his wedding would have been filled with love, music, and hope. I can only dream of what it might have been like.
3. What’s something you only do when you get bored?
Once, I received a traditional Japanese doll for my birthday from a coworker, probably because I once played an oiran. But honestly, I’m terrified of dolls! In Japan, it’s believed they carry spirits. I smiled and thanked them, but inside I was crying. That doll still gives me chills to this day.
4. Are you overly loyal to any clothing brands?
What is the most random fact you know?
Did you know that *omikuji*, the fortune slips found at Japanese shrines, actually originated from Buddhist temples? In the Heian period, monks used them to make important decisions by divine guidance. Over time, this sacred ritual became more casual and widespread, eventually showing up at Shinto shrines too. So next time you draw a fortune at a shrine, remember—it started as a spiritual practice in a temple!
5. What is the biggest risk you have ever taken?
Carrying a mikoshi—a sacred portable shrine during Japanese festivals—is something I’ll never do again. When I was younger, I carried one and my shoulder swelled up like a melon! It was painful and I couldn’t sleep. Mikoshi are believed to carry gods, and it’s considered lucky to bear them. But next time, I’ll just cheer from the side!
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Roanoke,
Virginia 24025
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