FJFW to elevate festival with creative expertise

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Committee chairman and acting CEO Tevita Boseiwaqa with Fiji Fashion Week managing director Ellen Whippy Knight after signing the partnership yesterday. Picture: LITIA RITOVA

Fiji Fashion Week (FJFW) has been contracted to manage the production of the 69th Hibiscus Festival, scheduled to take place from September 20 to 27 in Suva.

In a statement, the Hibiscus Committee announced that FJFW was specifically approached for this role because of its proven expertise in stage production and queens coordination, built over years of delivering high-calibre fashion events and grooming programs across Fiji and the Pacific.

Speaking on the partnership, FJFW managing director Ellen Whippy Knight said they were excited to partner with the Hibiscus Committee.

“The team at Fiji Fashion Week is honoured to be taking on such a mammoth task for the Hibiscus Committee, and I am extremely excited as this is a job that I have dreamt of for many years,” Ms Knight said.

“We look forward to bringing our creative expertise, professionalism, and passion to elevate the festival experience for both contestants and audiences alike.”

Committee chairman and acting CEO Tevita Boseiwaqa also expressed his enthusiasm.

“We are thrilled to be working with Fiji Fashion Week for the 69th Hibiscus Festival,” Mr Boseiwaqa said.

“Their exceptional track record in delivering polished productions and mentoring young women made them the ideal partner for this year’s event.

“We believe their involvement will bring a new level of quality, confidence, and innovation to the festival – especially in the Queen’s program, which remains a cornerstone of our celebration.”

He said the Hibiscus Festival had long been a rite of passage for aspiring queens, many of whom had gone on to become leaders and role models in Fiji and beyond.

He said with FJFW’s involvement, the 2025 edition promises an innovative and polished production, showcasing the best of fashion, pageantry, and Fijian pride.

The week-long festival will feature the renowned Hibiscus Queen Pageant, cultural shows, food stalls, music performances, and community events, culminating in a grand celebration of Suva as the heart of Fiji’s cultural life.