Seven contestants are set to compete for the title of Miss Nasinu Carnival 2024 in the upcoming fortnight. Among them is Vinaina Marawa, who is determined to advocate against domestic violence within homes and communities. Ms. Marawa aims to use the week-long carnival as a platform to address this critical issue.
Fiji is facing 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. Moreover, 60 percent of women encounter troubling situations at home due to a lack of support and abuse.
Representing the Nasinu Town Council, Ms. Marawa is not new to beauty pageants. At just 18 years old, she previously competed in the Teen category of the Hibiscus Festival. She views her participation 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.
During the carnival, she plans to focus on advocacy and aims to inspire change at the national level, eager to use her voice for this significant cause. Ms. Marawa believes that true change starts at home.
Reflecting on her upbringing as the eldest of eight siblings raised by a single mother, she recognizes the considerable responsibilities she undertook. Balancing household chores with her studies presented challenges, but her mother’s unwavering support made the journey worthwhile. At this year’s Nasinu Carnival, the Kadavu native is set to leverage this platform to advocate for meaningful change.