MENTAL health is a key issue Grace Suvei holds in high regard which is why she will be advocating on its impacts during the week-long FMF Bula Festival in Nadi.
Ms Suvei, 20, is one of the 10 contestants vying for the coveted title of Miss FMF Bula. She is being sponsored by Unique Rubber Stamp.
The Swami Vivekananda College Year 13 student hails from Nabulini, Wainibuka in Tailevu with maternal links to Daliconi, Vanuabalavu, Lau.
“I will be advocating on the impacts and the importance of mental health because I have friends that really battle with this issue, so I thought of really advocating more on this issue,” she said.
Ms Suvei said her solid support system enabled her to efficiently balance her busy schedule with her studies.
“I have very supportive schoolmates, and the principal gave me, like, three weeks for this and I’ve also had the option of having my notes photocopied so that it’s easier to catch up.”
While many may shy away from public speaking, Ms Suvei said she was looking forward to using this platform to further advocate on mental health.
“If I was selected to be Miss Bula, I would take advantage of that position, because I would be able to advocate in places that I don’t think I’d be able to reach, especially in rural areas; I would try to come up with programs to help people with mental health issues.
“I feel like reading has really helped me to be part of this pageant, because when you read more, you’ll gain more knowledge. So, when you come in and when people ask you questions, you are confident and you know what to say and what to do because you are prepared.”
The festival’s pre-opening was held last night. The official opening will be held today whereby the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka will be the chief guest.
