Miss Tents and Awnings Melania Tora was crowned Miss Hibiscus 2024 at the Suva Foreshore earlier tonight.
Miss Island Accommodation Martina Sigrah was awarded the first runner up title while Miss Fiji Fashion Week Pepe Malani claimed the second runner up title.
Chief Guest, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka congratulated the contestants for their participation in the week-long event.
“The Hibiscus Festival is an opportunity for the City-Fathers to bring our communities together to rejoice, join various fun activities at the grounds, and have a good time with a happy festival mood,” said the Prime Minister.
“At the same time, the Festival presents an opportunity to empower young women, who participate in the Miss Hibiscus pageant with judging and other public events during the weeklong festival.
“As Prime Minister, I have seen how the Festival empowers the Queens and provide a platform to not only the eventual Queen, but the other contestants who benefit from the public exposure.”
To the contestants, judges, organisers, vendors, and stall operators, PM Rabuka acknowledged their efforts in contributing to the success of the festival.
“Each contestant who stands before us has demonstrated exceptional confidence, poise and grace as well as an inspiring passion for their cultural heritage,” he further remarked.
“To all the contestants, I extend my warm congratulations. You have done your families, your community and your Vanua proud!
“In my view you are all Queens in accepting the challenge and taking up the opportunity to develop your confidence, poise and character,” PM Rabuka concluded.
Newly-crowned Miss Hibiscus 2024 Melania Tora thanked all her supporters, sponsors, family and friends for their support throughout the week-long festival.
She attributed her success to God, adding she is looking forward to serving the people of Suva.
