Seven contestants are set to compete for the 2024 Miss Nasinu Carnival crown in the coming fortnight. Among these contestants is Vinaina Marawa, who aims to advocate against domestic violence in homes and communities. Ms. Marawa is dedicated to utilizing the week-long carnival to address this critical issue.
Fiji is facing 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 at some point in their lives. Furthermore, 60 percent of women encounter distressing situations at home due to lack of support and abuse.
Representing the Nasinu Town Council, Ms. Marawa is experienced in beauty pageants. At just 18 years old, she participated in the Teen category of the Hibiscus Festival. She views her involvement in events like the Nasinu Carnival as a chance to serve her community with dignity and respect, stating, “It’s not about the clothes or looks; it’s about representing our community.”
During the carnival, she intends to focus on advocacy and driving change at the national level, eagerly looking to use her voice for this cause. Ms. Marawa believes that change must begin at home.
Reflecting on her life as the eldest of eight siblings raised by a single mother, she acknowledges the heavy responsibilities she carried. Although balancing household duties and academics was a tough challenge, her mother’s steadfast support made her journey meaningful. This year at the Nasinu Carnival, the young advocate plans to leverage the platform to promote change.