Shyna Lata, a 21-year-old from Labasa, has dedicated herself to raising awareness about the impacts of drug use and unemployment, influenced by her experiences in Narere, Nasinu. She believes that educating the youth on the importance of education can help mitigate drug abuse and unemployment issues among them.
Lata, a graduate of the Fiji National University and supported by Playland Fantasy Amusement Rides, is one of seven contestants competing for the title of Miss Nasinu Festival 2024. She has called for government initiatives focused on aiding young people, particularly those facing homelessness or drug-related challenges.
“I come from a community that is labelled a red zone, and I’ve seen that the majority of our youths are school dropouts or involved in drugs,” she stated.
The festival will run for a week and is set to conclude on Saturday at the Valelevu grounds.