Sala Korosaya, a 23-year-old final-year University of the South Pacific (USP) law student, has joined the FMF Hibiscus Festival to advocate for greater opportunities for young Fijians, particularly those without strong support systems.
Pursuing a double degree in Law and Commerce, majoring in Economics, Ms Korosaya is also president of the USP Law Students Association.
Through her leadership role, she says she has seen young people appear in court without adequate support to address the underlying issues contributing to their involvement with the justice system.
Ms Korosaya believes many young people struggle to turn their dreams into reality because they lack opportunities, positive role models, and supportive communities.
This, she says, can contribute to some becoming involved in criminal activities.
And she sees the Hibiscus Festival as an important platform to raise awareness about these challenges and promote pathways that empower young people to succeed.
She also believes the pageant’s history of developing women leaders in Fiji’s civil and public sectors strengthens its potential to advance her advocacy.
Ms Korosaya credits her parents for teaching her ambition, hard work, and leadership.
While leadership can attract doubt and criticism, she says integrity has helped keep her grounded.
