FIJI’S vibrant environmental advocate, Ashlin Alveena Prasad, is set to take centre stage at the prestigious Miss Earth 2024 pageant, to be held in Okada, Manila, Philippines. Officially recognised as Fiji’s delegate by Carousel Productions Inc, the organisation behind Miss Earth, Ms Prasad will not only represent her country’s cultural richness, but also its commitment to environmental sustainability. The grand finals, scheduled for November 9, 2024, will be broadcasted globally the following day, allowing viewers from around the world to witness this extraordinary event.
At just 18 years old, Ms Prasad has made remarkable strides in advocating for sustainable environmental practices, particularly focusing on soil regeneration. This passion stems from her upbringing, where a deep connection to the land fostered her desire to create meaningful change for future generations. Her advocacy work has seen her lead numerous environmental initiatives in Fiji, including beach clean-up campaigns and community programs that emphasise the importance of sustainability.
Speaking ahead of her departure for Singapore on October 19, Ms Prasad expressed her excitement and sense of responsibility for representing Fiji on the global stage.
“I am truly honoured to represent Fiji at Miss Earth 2024. This platform allows me to share Fiji’s beauty, highlight its environmental challenges, and advocate for something I deeply believe in — soil regeneration and sustainability. I hope to inspire others to take action for our planet.”
A proud moment for Fiji
Ms Prasad’s participation in Miss Earth 2024 is a moment of pride for Fiji, bringing attention to a cause that is not only vital for her homeland, but also for the global community. The Miss Earth competition is renowned for its dedication to promoting environmental awareness and action, challenging participants to be more than just ambassadors of beauty. Contestants are required to advocate for causes that address urgent environmental issues, and Ms Prasad’s focus on soil regeneration couldn’t be timelier, given the growing global concerns around climate change and environmental degradation.
Ms Prasad’s message resonates beyond the pageant stage. Her advocacy highlights the importance of addressing soil health as a means of combating climate change, enhancing food security, and preserving biodiversity. Her efforts to draw global attention to this critical issue aim to inspire action not only in Fiji, but also among the international audience who will follow her journey.
From modelling to environmental advocacy: Ashlin Prasad’s multifaceted journey
As a vibrant young leader, Ms Prasad is passionate about environmental sustainability as she champions soil regeneration and has led impactful community initiatives, including a beach clean-up at Sonaisali Beach, engaging both youth and elders. A talented public speaker and diplomat, Ms Prasad has excelled in leadership roles, from captaining the IQ Active Fiji competition to shining as a Model UN delegate.
A finalist in Miss Universe Fiji 2023, she’s also making strides with her modelling career and academic excellence, all while actively giving back to her community as an Indian translator. Ms Prasad’s remarkable achievements signal her potential to inspire global change at Miss Earth 2024.
Ms Prasad’s advocacy at the global stage is centred on: “True change happens when we unite — individually, we strive; together, we transform.”
Fiji Day cleanup campaign: Inspiring the next generation
In line with Ms Prasad’s advocacy, Fiji recently celebrated a significant environmental initiative on Fiji Day — a community cleanup campaign led by youth to promote environmental stewardship. Participants, ranging in age from five years to 20-year-olds, collected various types of litter, including beer bottles, cans, diapers, and plastic waste, from local beaches. This initiative was not only a powerful exercise in environmental responsibility, but also an opportunity for the younger generation to connect sustainability with their cultural heritage. Ms Prasad, a former student of Swami Vivekananda College, played a central role in the event, emphasising the intersection of mental health, environmental sustainability, and cultural identity. She inspired children and young adults to take pride in their environment and cultural heritage, fostering a deeper sense of community and responsibility.
Despite the positive energy surrounding the campaign, challenges remain. Some individuals were observed littering while others stood by without participating, underscoring the need for a stronger culture of environmental responsibility in Fiji. This highlights a crucial part of Ms Prasad’s mission: to foster a deeper sense of environmental accountability, especially among the younger generation.
A global message of hope
As Ashlin Alveena Prasad embarks on her journey to Miss Earth 2024, she carries with her not only the hopes of Fiji but also a message of global significance. Her advocacy for soil regeneration and sustainable practices is a clarion call to action in the fight against climate change.
Through her efforts on the world stage, she aims to inspire individuals, communities, and nations to prioritise the health of our planet for future generations.
With her strong sense of purpose, grace, and dedication, Ms Prasad is poised to be a remarkable representative for Fiji at Miss Earth 2024.
Let’s all rally behind her as she steps into this international spotlight, bringing her message of hope, sustainability, and environmental action to the world.
