Manari Osaki

Meet Manari Osaki
Mrs. Universe Japan Participant & Breast Cancer Awareness Advocate 🎀

Born in Japan, Manari spent much of her childhood abroad due to her father's work, living in India, Sri Lanka, and Iran before later spending a year in the United States as a high school exchange student.

She began her professional career in the hospitality industry before successfully transitioning into finance, overcoming the challenges of entering a highly competitive field without a traditional finance background.

More recently, a breast cancer diagnosis became a turning point in her life and inspired a new mission. Today, Manari is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of early breast cancer detection and expanding access to education for younger generations.

As a participant in the Mrs. Universe competition, she is using her platform to advocate for breast cancer education in high schools and to challenge the misconception that breast cancer only affects older women. Through her work, she hopes to make early detection resources and education more accessible, empowering more people to take proactive steps toward their health.

What are you currently building?

Raising awareness around breast cancer and advocating for education programs in high schools, with the long-term goal of making early detection more accessible to everyone.

What excites you about Japan?

Japan's growing popularity as a global destination. While some see over-tourism as a challenge, she sees it as an opportunity for more people to experience the beauty of the country.

A risk that changed your trajectory?

Transitioning from hospitality to finance despite having no formal finance background. After dozens of applications and rejections, she landed a role that completely changed her career path.

A habit that has had the biggest impact?

Protecting her peace. Following her diagnosis, she became more intentional about her time, relationships, and well-being.

Advice for your 20s?

Don't be afraid to take a career break to pursue something you've always wanted to do. Looking back, a year or two is a small investment in a lifetime of experiences.

Favorite cafe in Tokyo?

Samaa in Sangenjaya—a café by day and natural wine bar by night.