THE Fiji Pageant Contest 2018 could not be held in time due to elections, for Fiji to participate in the Miss Pacific Island Pageant.
This was revealed in a statement from Government.
Fiji was not represented at the regional pageant which was held in Nuku’alofa Tonga last month.
Miss Fiji Pageant Association chairman Hirdesh Prasad confirmed that they were still finalizing plans for the annual pageant which crowns the representative to the Miss Pacific Island pageant.
The Miss Fiji title is currently held by Miss Nasinu Hailey Qaqa who will now reign for a longer period until she crowns her predecessor at the next pageant.
The local pageant is usually held in October, before the regional pageant in November.
However, a Government statement said the local government ministry will review the organising of this important event for the future, to ensure that this is done in an effective and timely manner.
And while a date and venue is yet to be announced for the Miss Fiji pageant, the 12 reigning Queens from the various municipalities were hosted to a morning tea yesterday by Minister for Industry, Trade, Tourism, Local Government, Housing and Community Development Premila Kumar.
The event was an opportunity for Minister Kumar to officially meet and congratulate the Queens and to also remind them of the important role they play as advocates and ambassadors in their own communities.
“You have a very important role to play in society. While you are the face of your community, you must also be their voice. Be the voice for the voiceless and the needy and advocate for what is good for your community,” Ms Kumar said.
The Minister also encouraged the Queens to work closely with their respective Municipal Councils in improving their towns and cities.
“I urge you to frequently meet with representatives of your Municipal Councils and discuss ways to improve your communities. Bring issues and concerns raised by members of your community and discuss with them. Suggest ways in which you could improve your town and city, because together, we can achieve greater things,” Ms Kumar stated.
Ms Kumar added that the Queens could also be the voice of the Municipal Councils in their community.
“You are also important because you are the bridge between your community and the councils. Your continued involvement and passion could contribute positively in many ways, both to the community and the councils. Be the gap filler and strive to work diligently for the benefit of your towns and cities. So please, do not take your roles lightly, as it is extremely crucial,” she said.
Towns and cities around the country have been organizing township festivals with the aim to create awareness on issues that are important to Fiji and all Fijians.
