THE contestants in the Miss Fiji Pageant have made their first-ever public engagement in the North.
During their morning tea at Labasa’s Takia Hotel, committee chair Felix Magnus said the engagement was designed to help the queens understand the lives of ordinary Fijians, especially vendors.
“Most of the time we pass the markets and only see the produce,” he said.
“We don’t think about the person behind it, the mother or father who woke up at 3am so their children could have a better future.”
Mr Magnus said the contestants were briefed to speak with vendors, offer words of encouragement, and listen to the daily challenges faced by their families.
“With all the issues facing our youths today, this platform allows these young women to advocate for the struggles in their own townships.
“They are standing on a national stage to push for change.”
All municipalities except two have joined in to support their queens, following a Cabinet-endorsed directive through the Ministry of Local Government.
“This is the first time in years that so many councils are working together for one national event.
“We’re hoping the nation will support the queens as they move through the towns and cities.”
The Miss Fiji Pageant will be staged at the Suva foreshore.
