Seven contestants are set to compete for the 2024 Miss Nasinu Carnival crown in the upcoming fortnight. Among them is Vinaina Marawa, who aims to raise awareness about domestic violence in homes and communities. Ms. Marawa is dedicated to utilizing the week-long carnival to address this critical issue.
Fiji faces alarmingly high rates of violence against women, with statistics indicating that two-thirds of women in the country experience physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner at some point in their lives. Additionally, 60% of women encounter troubling situations at home due to a lack of support and abuse.
Representing the Nasinu Town Council, Ms. Marawa is no novice to beauty pageants. At just 18 years old, she previously participated in the Hibiscus Festival Teen category. She views her involvement in events like the Nasinu Carnival as an opportunity 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. She emphasized her commitment to advocacy and creating change on a national level during the carnival.
Ms. Marawa believes that the journey toward change starts at home. Reflecting on her upbringing as the eldest of eight siblings raised by a single mother, she understands the considerable responsibilities that come with it. Balancing household duties with her education was challenging, but her mother’s unwavering support made her journey fulfilling. At this year’s Nasinu Carnival, the young advocate plans to use her platform to promote meaningful change.