‘’Hello! My name is Rie Sakurai.

I’m Japanese. I have been an actress since I was a child, but after I became ill I started studying herbs and working as an educator in yoga and spirituality.

When I have free time, I want to paint, go for walks on the seaside or in the forest, read books, cook, make dresses, and travel. But I’m so busy at the moment that I don’t have much time for all of that.

I am not one to give up easily even when I fall. I always try to look at even the smallest things in a positive way and use them to my advantage in the future in order to gain something (even if it is not tangible). And once I believe in something, I am prepared to spend my time and money to the fullest.

My weakness used to be that I couldn’t say “no.” But now I can do that because I value myself. I’m sure I have a lot of weaknesses, but on the other hand, I don’t know which ones are my weaknesses.

Who inspired you in your life / career?

My family, a Japanese herbal pioneer and an Indian yoga guru who are both serious about changing the world with love.

I have had a weak body since I was a child, and I was in and out of the hospital every year. The doctor told my mother, “Your daughter will not live long.” I have been close to leaving my body many times in my life, but each time, thanks to God and everyone’s mercy, I have returned to this world many times. I think there is still something I need to give back to someone in this world.

What is happiness for you?

When people are free to dream freely, without any ties, stereotypes or restrictions, and have a pure mind that allows everyone to support each other’s dreams, I believe this is true health, happiness and abundance.

“The three principles of happiness are “believe in yourself, love those around you, and dream of tomorrow.” Ever since I read these three principles in a book as a child, I have written them down on paper and hung them up in my room. Whenever I remember these words, I can feel positive and accept the past, love the present, and live with hope for the future.

 How do you feel about being here at Miss Europe Continental?

It’s a huge tournament, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how my feelings and life will change before and after participating. I’m sure it will have a big impact on my life. I’m also grateful and honored to be able to stand here representing Japan, and I want to continue to be humble and make people smile.

I believe fashion is a message from your subconscious. The color, material, style, and all the energy of the clothes you wear today represent who you are today inside.

– If you could make one wish come true, what would it be?

I hope the world will be a beautiful place filled with love.

I will be one of the people who create a world where no one suffers anymore. I want to eliminate people who hide their sadness and force themselves to smile. I want to increase the number of people who can laugh from their hearts and from their stomachs. I will increase the number of people who can live calmly, kindly, and in service of love, living as their souls were meant to be.’’

Follow her here: www.instagram.com/mangala.arati/