THE FMF Hibiscus Festival has announced its five-member judging panel for the 2026 festival, with lawyer Jon Apted appointed as chief judge.
Mr Apted, a partner at Munro Leys, has practised law for 40 years and has previous experience in fashion, television and music competitions.
The panel also includes permanent secretary for Justice, Selina Camaibau Kuruleca, who also serves as acting permanent secretary for Women, Children and Social Protection and chairs the Fiji National Anti-Money Laundering Council. Pacific climate leader and narrative strategist Fenton Lutunatabua joins the panel, bringing more than 20 years of experience in climate action, communications, advocacy and regional partnerships.
Rotarian and former Rotary International District 9920 governor Vineeta Nand will also serve as a judge, drawing on her experience in banking, aviation, government, communications and public affairs.
Completing the panel is Miss Hibiscus 1975 Michele Smith, who was the last winner to wear the traditional Hibiscus crown before the introduction of the modern tiara.
Organisers said the judges’ diverse backgrounds would allow contestants to be assessed on areas including presentation, communication, character, cultural understanding and their ability to represent the festival.
