TWELVE women have been unveiled as contestants for the 2026 FMF Hibiscus Festival, marking the beginning of this year’s journey toward the festival crown.
The contestants include students, youth leaders, advocates, a journalist and a medical imaging student, each bringing their own experiences and community causes to the annual festival.
Among them are Bulou Boteiova, a Yasawa-born educator and former Miss Coral Coast; Olivia Luisa Gade, a vibrant and faith-driven young professional; Kali Maria Shaw, a medical student promoting health awareness; and Leona Douglas, a political science student advocating for women’s health and youth development.
Also joining the lineup are Temalesi Vakalawa Alutakua, a youth leader focused on mental health support; Nicole Matavesi, Fiji’s Youth Prime Minister; Keren Koroi, a mental health advocate; and Potaisia Rokowailoa, a medical imaging student who champions inclusive communities and challenges stigma through collective support.
Completing the field are journalist Suliana Elizabeth Latianara, youth advocate Sala Korosaya, environmental advocate Salanieta Sekiseki and Emi Ravela, a law student passionate about women’s empowerment and girls’ education.
The 12 contestants will now begin their FMF Hibiscus Festival journey, representing a wide range of professions, experiences and causes while competing for the 2026 Hibiscus crown.
