This year, I was given the privilege to be one of six judges that would decide the new Miss Hibiscus for Suva, for Fiji, after 5 long years.

I was on the other side of this endeavour just 8 years ago, being a contestant in this pageant is no small feat but God is gracious. This is an opportunity of a lifetime that usually changes the lives of those who participate in this space and particularly for the one who is crowned Miss Hibiscus.

For me, it was my introduction to the public arena in Fiji. I was sponsored by a first time sponsor – Home & Living Vinod Patel, and supported by family, friends, a creative fashion designer and a team of amazing individuals!

The moment after crowning is almost like a whirlwind of events, weeks of make up and hair, appearances, meetings, seeing my face on billboards across the country, it was exhilarating and exhausting but it was a lens in which I now experienced Fiji.

And now in 2024, I realise tonight will be that moment for one of the amazing, talented and courageous nine women who are vying for the title at this year’s Hibiscus Festival.

This years festival and pageant is not like the one I was a part of in 2016, a lot had been changed to bring out the creativity and excellence this years committee and event organiser thought fit for 2024.

The judging was also not an easy task, all of these nine women, their team, families, vanua, tribe, friends and supporters brought their A game and then some! The week revived Suva and gave its people something to look forward to,

I am absolutely grateful to be a part of it and wish all the contestants the very best! At to the new Miss Hibiscus 2024, best wishes on your engagements for the year, God is faithful.