Seven contestants are set to vie for the 2024 Miss Nasinu Carnival crown in the upcoming fortnight. Among them is Vinaina Marawa, who intends to champion the fight against domestic violence within homes and communities. Ms. Marawa is dedicated to utilizing the week-long carnival to address this urgent issue.
Fiji faces alarmingly high rates of violence against women. Statistics indicate that two-thirds of women in Fiji experience physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner during their lifetime. Additionally, 60 percent of women encounter distressing situations within their homes due to a lack of support and abuse.
Representing the Nasinu Town Council, Ms. Marawa is no stranger to beauty pageants. At just 18 years old, she previously took part in the Hibiscus Festival Teen category. She views her involvement in events like the Nasinu Carnival as a chance to serve her community with dignity and respect. “It’s not about the clothes or looks, it’s about representing our community,” Ms. Marawa stated. “During this one-week carnival, I will focus on advocacy and fostering change at the national level, and I am eager to use my voice for this cause.”
Ms. Marawa believes that change begins at home. Reflecting on her own life as the eldest of eight siblings raised by a single mother, she acknowledges the substantial responsibilities she has shouldered. Balancing household duties with her studies was challenging, but her mother’s steadfast support made the journey worthwhile. At this year’s Nasinu Carnival, the Kadavu native will leverage the platform to advocate for change.