A 13-year-old Jacksonville girl whose pageant platform is based on her own mental health journey was recently crowned International United Miss Pre-Teen 2026–27.
Yan Ning Chen, who was born in the Netherlands to a Chinese family and raised in the United States, won the pre-teen title at the International United Miss Pageant in Orlando.
Through her platform, called "Hair We Go," Yan Ning raises public awareness for trichotillomania, a mental health condition characterized by compulsive hair pulling. She also advocates for people who have other mental health challenges.
"Winning the … title means so much to me. It has given me the incredible opportunity to represent the heroic mission on an international stage and use my voice to make a positive
impact," The Bolles Schoolstudent said. "This title is not only an honor but also a responsibility that I take to heart. … I am committed to making every moment of my reign meaningful."
During her year as International United Miss Pre-Teen, Yan Ning will continue her Instagram series, “Hair We Go Talks" and share the message that "true confidence comes from who you are on the inside, not what you look like on the outside."
She will also continue her community service, inciuding meal preparation for families at Ronald McDonald House Charities, donating books to Little Free Library and providing toys and hair products for patients at Wolfson Children's Hospital.
An accomplished athlete, Yan Ning has earned numerous gymnastics and dance titles and was theyoungest participant to compete in the National Youth Triathlon. Her career goal is to become a professional choreographer and aesthetician.
Beth Reese Cravey has been a reporter for The Florida Times-Union for 45 years, currently specializing in nonprofits and health. She can be reached at bcravey@jacksonville.com.
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Jacksonville girl with mental health platform wins pageant title
