ATECA Tamanalevu was crowned Miss Tebara 2026.
Representing Nausori Plaza, Ms Tamanalevu said she entered the pageant to learn and grow rather than to win.
“At the beginning of this festival, the beginning of this pageant, I had no expectations. I only joined to learn and to grow and it was never to win anything,” she said.
Ms Tamanalevu said her prayer was for the Lord to use her as an instrument to serve others.
She thanked her supporters for their support throughout the competition and gave special recognition to her classmates from LDS Church College.
Reflecting on her journey, she candidly recalled facing criticism about her posture during the early stages of preparation.
“When I first started training for this tradition, for this pageant, I kind of walked funny because I don’t walk like a lady. They told me I walk like a rugby player. But don’t let those labels define you.
“If there’s anything I hope that you take away from this pageant, it is you are not what you look like or who people tell you you are.”
Using her platform to inspire, she delivered a powerful message to the youth.
“If there’s anything I hope you take away from this pageant, it is that you are not what you look like or who people say who you are.”
Ms Tamanalevu acknowledged the support of those who stood behind her from Tebara, Tailevu, Naitasiri and Rewa.
The pageant concluded with organisers inviting the audience to remain for the rest of the carnival celebrations.
