Los Angeles is no stranger to Cinderella stories; immigrants finding their way in America, people thrust and thriving in the entertainment industry, seizing the opportunities that unexpectedly fall into their lap. The story of Maia Kahlon is different, however – in that it encompasses all the above. Originally hailing from Japan and having lived in New York City for 15 years, the sports reporter-turned-beauty queen now resides in LA, and it has been as wild a ride as it sounds.

Still splitting her time between LA and NYC, Maia’s journey began back in Japan when she wanted to pursue journalism in the United States. At the time, her intended position of news reporter was not available, but there was an opening for Major League Baseball reporting, covering the New York Yankees. Knowing nothing about the sport besides “hit the ball and run,” she reluctantly took on the task and began her career in U.S.

Now armed with a work visa, Maia was initially filled with doubt and uncertainty in the male-dominated environment. She engaged with players, the fans, and the sport itself, eventually persevering – even falling in love with baseball. As her resume grew, so did her pride in MLB coverage. It comes as no surprise that the draw to the 2024 World Champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, with its Japanese star players, would find her relocating to LA.

At the time of this very interview, Maia had to reschedule due to her Japanese TV Network requesting her presence on the field. Being so engrossed and prolific in the sports world, she never envisioned herself in the glamorous realm of beauty pageants, though she did always possess an interest in fashion. One day, during the pandemic when work opportunities had dwindled, a friend suggested she try-out for a pageant in LA; try her hand at winning a title.

Taking part in Virgelia Productions’ Mrs. Asia USA pageant, Maia won the title of Mrs. Asia USA International in November of 2022. “I never imagined myself in the fashion industry or saw myself as a model,” she admits. “It was a very different world for me.” So how did she come to succeed in this new venture? The very same way she charged ahead in MLB.

Maia spent most of her career watching and observing professional athletes fiercely competing at the highest levels of the sport. Their drive to be the greatest inspired her to experience something similar; a want for a competitive, highstakes environment, not unlike the world of sports reporting. The drive led her to the pageant stage, and from there she stepped into additional foreign territory; comedic theater, acting, and – at the behest of a designer friend – walking in last year’s Asian Fashion Week.

It was during AFW that Maia was awarded yet another honor, receiving the title of Miss Asia World International 2024. “To me, it’s more than just a title,” she reveals. “It carries a profound responsibility and sense of purpose. I believe beauty is not just about external appearances but about unveiling the inner strength and brilliance that lies within each person. With this title, I want to inspire women everywhere to believe in their own unlimited potential.”

Comprised of equal parts beauty, determination, and grit, Maia utilizes her discovery of the limitless potential of beauty to empower other women. “There was a time in my life where I felt insecure about myself and lacked self-confidence, but the relationships I had been able to cultivate and the support I had received over the years have helped me realize the value I can bring to this world. Because of this experience, I now want to give back by being the one to uplift others and bring hope and courage to people through beauty and empowerment.”

In terms of what is next for her, Maia’s goal is to throw the ceremonial first pitch at an MLB game; a culmination of her work in two worlds in a full circle moment. Where she can express gratitude for the game that shaped her career, changed her life, while also sending a message of empowerment to women about their limitless potential. “I hope to show the importance of embracing new challenges and the power of pursuing your passions.” We are certainly in awe of her life’s work and accomplishments, and you too can witness her achievements by following her Instagram @queenmaiakahlon_.