Seven contestants are gearing up to compete for the 2024 Miss Nasinu Carnival crown in the coming two weeks. Among the participants is Vinaina Marawa, who aims to use this platform to advocate against domestic violence in homes and communities.
Ms. Marawa is dedicated to leveraging the week-long carnival to address this critical issue. Fiji faces alarming levels of violence against women, with statistics indicating that two-thirds of women in the country experience physical or sexual violence from a partner at some point in their lives. Furthermore, 60 percent of women encounter serious challenges at home due to inadequate support and abuse.
Representing the Nasinu Town Council, Ms. Marawa has a background in beauty pageants, having previously participated in the Hibiscus Festival’s Teen category at just 18 years old. She sees 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,” she stated.
During this carnival, Ms. Marawa plans to focus on advocacy and promoting change on a national scale, expressing her eagerness to raise her voice for the cause. She believes that real change begins at home. Reflecting on her experiences as the eldest of eight siblings raised by a single mother, she recognizes the considerable responsibilities she had to shoulder. Although balancing household responsibilities with her studies proved difficult, her mother’s unwavering support has made her journey meaningful.
At this year’s Nasinu Carnival, the young advocate from Kadavu intends to utilize her platform to promote change.