Miss Labasa Divisional Hospital Isabella Raidriwa has emerged as an early standout at this year’s Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North, winning two awards ahead of Saturday’s crowning.
Ms Raidriwa took home the Best Research Topic and Best Sarong awards as seven contestants compete for the Miss Friendly North title.
The Best Research Topic category was reinstated after several years, giving contestants an opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and preparation beyond traditional pageant categories.
Festival committee president Mohammed Saiyum said the move was aimed at aligning the local competition with the national Miss Fiji Pageant, which the Festival of the Friendly North currently holds.
“The committee wanted the local pageant to follow the standards of the national competition and ensure contestants understood what would be expected of them if they advanced to the Miss Fiji stage,” he said.
Mr Saiyum said judging criteria were reviewed and explained to contestants and sponsors to ensure transparency.
Meanwhile, Verenaisi Waikarawa, representing Fiji Sugar Corporation, won Best Bollywood Attire, while Selai Qarau of Galaxy and Rentals took Best Traditional Attire.
The Miss Friendly North winner will be crowned on Saturday at Subrail Park in Labasa.
