More than 150 San Diego 13 to17-year-olds swarmed Fashion Valley Mall at Macy’s Center Court this past Saturday for a chance to attend the premiere of tween singing sensation Justin Bieber’s film “Never Say Never” as well as a Bieber meet-and-greet. San Diego yielded a vast number of potentials for the competition, and although many fans were turned away, the support for the contestants remained intact.
Shana Leon was the third person in line for the contest, and despite arriving at 3 a.m. (more than five hours before the contest registration began) the surprisingly energetic teen managed to describe in detail why she is Bieber’s number one fan.
“I’ve been with him since day one” Leon said, “Back when he used YouTube videos to promote himself. It’s about liking him for his personality, not just his music.”
Each of the 50 contestants were critiqued by a panel of judges on three specific categories: singing ability, Justin Bieber style and overall performance. Contestants were allowed to choose from three predetermined Bieber songs for the competition: “USmile,” “Baby” and “Never Say Never.” Channel 93.3’s radio personalities Frankie V., Geena the Latina and Sonic comprised the three-judge panel.
After two hours of back-to-back performances and a brief deliberation, the competition came down to two finalists. The finalists were then asked to participate in an immediate “sing-off”, which would determine who would reign supreme between the two “Beliebers.” With some audience approval and more deliberating by the judges, 15-year-old Demetrius Forbes was announced victorious.
Forbes was not only the second person in line for the competition, but one of only two male contestants. When asked about his participation within the competition he replied, “I’m doing this for my brother and sister we really like him and I wanted to be a good big brother. I’m confident that I have the best chance in this competition.” Forbes is one of 20 finalists eligible for a Bieber meet-and-greet in conjunction with the previously awarded trip to Los Angeles for four to the premiere of “Never Say Never.”
Bieber’s documentary “Never Say Never” hits theaters next month. For more information please visit justinbieberneversaynever.com.
