Beauty for All
Walks of Life

A Special Experience as a Beauty Pageant Judge

When I was first invited to serve as a judge for the Miss University pageant, I felt both honored and uneasy. I wondered how one could rank such diverse individuals, and worried that competition might overshadow authenticity. I've always believed in celebrating diversity, so I questioned whether contestants could truly be themselves while being judged.

Encouragement and Admiration

In reality, watching these young women—many the same age as my daughter—do their best was inspiring. The finalists were not only intelligent and beautiful, but also radiated uniqueness. Each of them expressed their individuality, and each shone in her own way.

The Difficulty and Responsibility of Being a Judge

I evaluated the contestants based on the pre-established criteria, but my instincts often led me beyond surface impressions. I found myself analyzing the meaning behind a speech, or interpreting what a contestant might be trying to express through her dress design. In that sense, I realize I may still have much to learn as a judge.

Even in a judging role, I believe it's essential to maintain the ability to receive feedback or opinions with a certain distance—simply as voices, without letting them sway you emotionally. I supported the finalists with the understanding that this, too, was part of their growth and training.

Redefining “Appearance”

We often think of “appearance” as merely face and figure—but this experience reminded me it's much more than that. Appearance includes how well one chooses a dress that complements their features and personality, the angle of the body seen from the audience, the rhythm and flow of movement, facial expressions, voice tone—all of it.

Do you ever think about how others see you? In some situations, it's important to understand this deeply. But balancing that with staying true to yourself—that’s the real challenge. And it’s exactly the theme I found myself pondering through this experience.

Dresses, Expressions, Voices—They All Shape One’s Presence

Though I may lack the right words, I felt I saw women like goddesses, fairies, dancers, and models. Each had her own essence—and each was beautiful. What was being judged, I think, was how deeply each woman understood and could express her own atmosphere and charm. These are not lessons often taught in school, yet they are vital life skills.

Valuing Both Inner and Outer Growth

I've always emphasized the importance of words and experience. I’ve pursued my own learning and sought opportunities to expose myself to new environments and values. I read books, reflect through writing, and raise my children with an emphasis on both education and expression.

Since early childhood, my children have attended Kumon and entrance exam prep schools. I’ve created opportunities for them to experience nature, different careers, and international exchange. I’ve encouraged them to express themselves through book reports and art. Through all this, I’ve come to value both academic and emotional development deeply.

And now, I’ve come to realize the importance of appearance too.

A New Perspective: Being Mindful of How You Appear

In life, we’re evaluated through many lenses—academics, writing, art, sports. We strive in each area. And I now see that appearance is also a worthy area to develop and be recognized in.

As I’ve mentioned, appearance isn’t just about what you’re born with. It’s about creating and expressing an atmosphere with physical presence. The finalists displayed a high level of expression on stage—something quite different from everyday life. Those who knew how to move slowly when still, and gracefully when in motion, really stood out. The balance, the facial expressions—it was like they knew how to “build” a performance.

The Most Challenging Part: The Speech Showdown

Choosing among the speeches was the hardest part. Every message was thoughtful and well-prepared, despite the time limitations. I was genuinely impressed by the high level of language skill among the finalists. Whether during speeches or in debates held previously, their ability to articulate thoughts in Japanese was outstanding.

Rather than saying simply “That’s amazing,” they expressed themselves with specificity, such as “It ended up becoming bullying, and I felt deeply hurt,” or “It gave me the courage to try something new.” Their words stimulated the imagination of the audience.

The ability to express your thoughts in words is, in my view as a parent, one of the most essential life skills. All of the finalists excelled in this, and I believe they will thrive in any society they step into.

In Conclusion

As a pageant judge, I was privileged to witness so many different “forms of effort.”
The way each contestant chose her words, managed her facial expressions, stood on stage, adjusted her tone, and selected the outfit that suited her—all of it reflected a certain resolve in how they presented themselves.

Until now, I’ve always emphasized the power of words and inner growth.
But this experience reminded me that making an effort to refine one’s appearance is also a form of self-respect—and a gesture of respect toward others.

Some may think that caring about looks is superficial. But to be aware of how one is seen and to refine oneself accordingly is, in fact, an act of self-belief—and an essential skill for engaging with society.

Watching this new generation, I was struck by how much they value authenticity.
Rather than conforming to rigid standards, they explore how best to highlight and express their own charm.
That, I believe, is the new definition of “beauty” for the next era.

Refining our appearance—just like deepening our knowledge or sensitivity—requires time, creativity, and care.
And through that ongoing process, our unique identities take shape.

I hope that each person will continue to believe in themselves, express who they are, and nurture their individuality.
Watching these young people move forward with confidence in both their inner and outer selves—I look forward to cheering them on for years to come.

Yoshiko Kuno