ALUMECI Davu, a 23-year-old senior barista at McDonald’s and a Bachelor of Medical Health Science student at the University of Fiji, is competing as Miss LJSS in the FMF Bula Festival.
The festival officially opened last Saturday at Koroivolu Park in Nadi with the crowning ceremony scheduled for this Saturday night.
Originally from Lovoci, Nadi, with maternal ties to Daliconi, Vanuabalavu, Lau, Ms Davu’s entry in the competition came as a surprise to her.
“I was actually approached by the director of LJSS as one of his church members works with me at McDonald’s, so she asked if I wanted to take part and I was a bit nervous, and I laughed, to be honest, because I couldn’t believe that they chose me, so they interviewed me, and then I agreed to take part.”
Ms Davu has taken annual leave from work and is managing her studies by emailing her lecturers and informing them of her inability to attend lectures due to her engagements.
“I will dedicate the platform to the festival’s theme, focusing on the compassion driven charity in the district of Nadi and the role it plays in our every day life, especially after a disaster or an epidemic.”
Ms Davu aims to highlight the crucial work of non-governmental organisations.
“I would use my platform to let the people know about these non-government organisations and how they help everyone around us, especially during hard times. So, I want to give back to them by making a platform for them to be able to showcase their compassion towards the people.”
Ms Davu also expressed positive sentiments about her fellow contestants.
“They are all very young minded girls who are eager to learn new things. How they go through challenges and they take it head on.
“So, I’ve learned some things, most things, from them, and they’ve taught me so much. So yes, I’m good friends with most of them.”
