FOR the first time in the history of the Miss South Pacific Pageant, Miss Fiji has been named the 2009/2010 Miss South Pacific.
An elated and rather emotional Miss Fiji Merewalesi Nailatikau was last night crowned Miss South Pacific.
She also scooped four special awards including the Pacific Building Solutions Miss People's Choice, PBS CK's Ezy Buys best talent, PBS Coca-Cola traditionally inspired costumes and PBS Fiji Times best interview.
A strong competitor in the pageant from the very beginning, Ms Nailatikau spoke eloquently during her final interview on whether smacking, as a form of discipline should be outlawed.
"I thank you for our challenges because they will shape us into stronger and better people," she said.
"I give my greetings and my salutations to the people of the Government of Samoa, the birthplace of the South Pacific pageant.
"This pageant is a platform where we can share our concerns, opinions and values with our communities.
"I decided this morning (yesterday), that I have already received my reward it's the experience that I have shared with my sisters despite all odds to reach an understanding and show unity."
She said this bond was a call to world leaders that unity is possible if differences are put aside.
Ms Nailatikau said the people of Fiji had shaped her into the person that she was.
"I dedicate this to the entire South Pacific. The need for some countries is more urgent than others.
"We must let the world know that a threat to one of us is a threat to the entire South Pacific. No matter your race or culture, if you call the South Pacific home, you love this place and you want to work hard to make it a better place, I dedicate this to you."
Miss Cook Islands Engara Gosselin was named PBS Jacks of Fiji best sulu and beachwear and PBS Vodafone MSPP first runner up. PBS Vodafone MSPP second runner up was Miss Aoteroa Pacific Paretaunu Randall while Miss Solomon Islands Millicent Barty was named PBS Ashabhai MSPP third runner up. PBS Coca-Cola MSPP fourth runner up was Miss Samoa Tusisaleia Pomele.
The next Miss South Pacific Pageant will be hosted by Papua New Guinea.
