FOR the Aisea family, the journey leading up to the crowning of the 69th Fiji Hibiscus Festival Queen was one of sacrifice, unity and overwhelming joy.
But the sacrifice paid off on Saturday night when their daughter, Miss National Fire Authority Ryhelle Aisea was crowned Miss Hibiscus 2025.
Speaking to The Fiji Times yesterday, Michael and Zinny Aisea described the moment their daughter’s name was called as “nervous and happy at the same time,” ending weeks of sleepless nights and intense preparation.
“When we heard she was selected, we were overjoyed,” Ms Aisea said.
“She deserved it, and we were so excited we couldn’t even sleep last night.”
Ryhelle quickly became a crowd favourite from day one, earning support not only from her local community but from international supporters as well.
Her parents said they felt “blessed” by the outpouring encouragement.
Mr Aisea said that preparations for the pageant went far beyond Suva, drawing support from relatives and friends across the world.
“The support came from all over the globe,” he said.
“It wasn’t just one country. Everyone pitched in – friends, relatives, even those not blood-related.
“That kind of unity carried us through.”
He said they had decided earlier on that no matter the outcome, their support would remain the same.
“On the way back to Civic Centre last (Saturday) night, we told each other that whether she wins the crown or not, we would always stand by her.
“Now that she’s won, we’ll do anything for our daughter. She will always be my princess — even though now she is a queen.”
The family’s focus now turns to the Miss Fiji pageant, where Ryhelle will represent Suva.
