The Bio.

With an illustrious career marked by features in prominent fashion outlets including Vogue and Elle U.K., Juri has become an iconic face of Asian beauty. Her linguistic prowess and cultural fluency propelled her to become the vibrant host of Buzzfeed Japan's 'Backstage Pass'. Juri's path to fame defied norms; her early battles with anxiety transformed into triumph through beauty pageantry, beginning with her groundbreaking win at Miss Asia USA in 2016. Her victories at Miss World Japan-Kyoto and Miss Universe Japan were not just crowns won but milestones in personal growth and mental health advocacy. Juri’s unique journey has also been captured in feature episodes from NHK World.

Juri's vocal advocacy for mental wellness, particularly within minority communities, has secured her a place on the board of Maple Counseling. In this role, she collaborates with the organization to provide support to underserved communities in Los Angeles, focusing on demystifying mental health issues and reducing stigma, especially among minority groups. Recognizing the profound impact representation has on the well-being of the Asian community, she harnesses her platform to amplify their presence in the media. As an LA Opera Ambassador, Juri stands as the initiative's first Asian representative, alongside luminaries like Whoopie Goldberg and Derek Fisher. She also sits on the board of Asian Hall of Fame, safeguarding the community's legacy and honoring figures like Lalisa Manobal (Lisa) from Blackpink. Her role at the Asian Hall of Fame is specifically to enhance knowledge and expand the limits of fashion and beauty within the Asian community, as well as to bring the community's efforts in these areas to the global forefront.

Juri's entrepreneurial venture, Shinka Beauty LLC, embodies her dedication to empowerment and transformation, offering coaching that transcends mere aesthetics. Her clients, spanning the United States and beyond, receive guidance to enhance their inner and outer beauty, with a special focus on women over 35.

While acknowledging strides made in Asian representation, Juri identifies the vast potential still untapped. Her work with brands like Ana Luisa and appearances at London Fashion Week are testaments to her relentless pursuit of broadening the horizons for Asian beauty. Juri Watanabe is not just a model of elegance but a visionary, bridging East and West, ensuring that Asian beauty is celebrated on a global stage.