Seven contestants will vie for the title of 2024 Miss Nasinu Carnival in the upcoming fortnight. Among the participants 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 urgent issue.
Fiji faces concerning 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. Furthermore, 60 percent of women encounter difficult situations at home, often due to lack of support and abuse.
Representing the Nasinu Town Council, Ms. Marawa is not new to beauty pageants. At only 18, she previously took part in the Hibiscus Festival’s Teen category. She views her involvement in events like the Nasinu Carnival as a chance to serve with dignity and respect. “It’s not about the clothes or looks; it’s about representing our community,” Ms. Marawa stated. She intends to focus on advocacy and promoting change at the national level during this carnival, eager to use her voice for her cause.
Ms. Marawa believes that change must begin at home. As the eldest of eight siblings raised by a single mother, she understands the significant responsibilities that come with such a role. Balancing household duties while pursuing her education was no small feat, but her mother’s steadfast support made her journey rewarding. This year at the Nasinu Carnival, the young Kadavu representative plans to leverage the platform to advocate for meaningful change.