On Saturday, the Miss World 2013 pageant rocked Miss Philippines' world with the crowning of the coveted title.

American born Megan Young, 23, beat out 126 other contestants on the Indonesian island of Bali. The runners up were Miss France, Marine Lorphelin, in second and Miss Ghana, Carranzar Naa Okailey Shooter, in third place.

The dark haired beauty moved to the Philippines when she was 10 years old. While she embraces both cultures, she is still very in tune with her American roots -- she loves Harry Potter, playing video games and is "guided by her heart."

"Seems like only yesterday that I was flying out to Bali, Indonesia to represent the Philippines and show the world what I had. And now, at the foot of my bed, I see the Miss World sash," Young wrote on her Facebook page. "Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine to be in this position. Never did I think of myself to be worthy of such an honor. But the paths that I've chosen have proven me wrong...This year will be an amazing one. I can already feel the good vibes and positive energy and I can't wait to start planning for things so that you can witness my journey as well."

Young's win was monumental for her, but the competition itself came with much controversy. The Miss World 2013 contest moved to Bali from the capital, Jakarta, because of protests from Muslim groups.

According to BBC News Asia, security was high in Bali, a resort island with a majority Hindu population, but no further demonstrations were reported.

The bikini portion of the competition was cause for concern by the Muslim majority in Indonesia, and was almost completely banned to appease the complaints of "pornography and mortality." Instead, sarongs and other conservative attire was worn.

"Protests were led by the hardline Islamic Defenders' Front (FPI), which had planned to cross to the island from East Java but were prevented when the port was shut late on Friday," BBC News Asia added. "The event, broadcast in 180 countries, was guarded by heavily armed police with water cannon while some 1,000 FPI members held a prayer session at a mosque outside Jakarta."

Controversy aside, Young hopes to move forward and make a difference in the world. She has already started raising awareness of Philippinos' struggles.

Earlier this month, Young's hometown was submerged underwater due to floods. On her Facebook page, she posted a picture of a market that was nearly submerged and pleaded for help and support.

"Floods happen all the time in the Philippines but year by year they seem to be getting worse. Brothers and sisters, I ask you to lend a hand out to those in need," she wrote. "I ask that you make those around you aware of what is happening and show them what they can do to help. Whether big or small, help is appreciated and it may help save a life."