New Miss Oktoberfest hopes to be a role model for youth in the community

A freshface takeson the role of Miss Oktoberfest2017 asa student fromthe University of Guelph was crowned on Friday asKitchener-Waterloo's 49thMiss Oktoberfest.

"Words truly can't describe the feeling and the emotions that ran through my head upon hearing my name," MikailaEmrichtold CBC News. "It was very surreal."

• Oktoberfest to focus on reaching younger generation, new president says
• PM Justin Trudeau taps the keg at K-W Oktoberfest

This year's OktoberfestGala Ball was held at the new LOT 42 space in Kitchener, whereVanessa Buttinger, former MissOktoberfest, crowned Emrichin front of about 500 people.

The 21-year-oldsaid the support she received fromher friends and familymade it an exceptional night to remember.

She recalled a sentimental moment on Friday when she watchedthe German Dance Group perform, a groupshe was a part of forseven years.

"It was very emotional for me to see that because that is what sparked my interest in Oktoberfestto begin with," she said.

Inspiring others

Emrich'srich German backgroundplayed an important role in her involvement withthe Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest.

"It is something I had wanted to do since I was a young girl," said Emrich, who hopes to be a role model for other youth in the community.

Shehopes to inspire and support othersthe same way her family and friends did throughout her recoveryfrom a concussion three years ago.

"You realize that no matter what you go through in life, there are people that care for you and I see that as a huge inspiration to do that for others as well," she said.

"Now that the role hasevolved into more of a leadership position, I could not be more honoured to have the opportunity to represent the festival and the culture we all love."