LONG before they were organising one of Fiji’s most recognised charity fashion events, Zelda Thomas and Marlene Vuniwaqa knew the runway from the other side.
Both were part of Fiji’s modelling scene during an earlier era of the local fashion industry.
Those experiences would shape a much bigger journey, turning their knowledge of fashion, events and people into something that could give back to the community.
In 2011, Style Fiji was established under Project Bula Mai with a simple but powerful purpose: to bring fashion and entertainment together to raise funds for health causes in Fiji.
What followed was more than a decade of service.
Year after year, Zelda and Marlene worked behind the scenes bringing together designers, models, entertainers, sponsors, hotels, businesses and volunteers to create an event people looked forward to on Fiji’s social calendar.
For those who attend Style Fiji, the finished product is a glamorous evening of fashion and entertainment. But behind every show are months of planning, countless phone calls and meetings, rehearsals, fundraising, sponsorship requests and the many small details required to bring hundreds of people together for one night.
Zelda and Marlene did that work for years, largely driven by their desire to use the platform to help others.
Through Style Fiji and Project Bula Mai, funds have supported organisations and services including the Fiji Cancer Society, St John Ambulance, Cure Kids Fiji and health services in the Western Division.
Their contribution has also extended to Fiji’s fashion industry.
Style Fiji has provided a runway for established and emerging designers, while creating opportunities for generations of models, performers and other creative. For many, it became a place to reconnect each year, showcase new work and contribute their talents towards a greater cause.
In 2025, Zelda and Marlene entrusted the organisation of Style Fiji to a new committee, marking a new chapter for an event they had nurtured for more than a decade.
For current Style Fiji chair Samson Lee, continuing their work comes with a great sense of responsibility.
“Zelda and Marlene didn’t just create an event, they created something that has become part of Fiji’s fashion community,” Lee said.
“They gave so much of their time and energy over the years, and always kept the charitable purpose at the heart of Style Fiji. For those of us who have taken over, it is important that we honour what they started while continuing to grow it.”
This year, as Style Fiji celebrates its 15th anniversary, Zelda and Marlene remain an important part of its story.
From models walking the runway in their younger years, to becoming the women behind the show, their journey reflects what Style Fiji has always stood for, fashion with purpose, community and service.
Today, every Style Fiji runway still carries a little of their legacy, and the best way to honour what they built is to be in the room on the night.
n Style Fiji 2026, “A midsummer night’s dream,” takes place on Saturday, November 7 from 6pm at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, Denarau Island. Tickets and tables are on sale now from FJ$300. For more information on how to book go to www.style-fiji.com. Ticket collection points in Suva from Samson Lee’s on Butt St and in Nadi from Rosie Tours at Martintar. Enquiries to info@style-fiji.com.
Zelda Thomas and Marlene Vuniwaqa created something that has become part of Fiji’s fashion community. Picture: SUPPLIED
