Seven contestants are set to compete for the Miss Nasinu Carnival crown in 2024 over the next two weeks. Among them is Vinaina Marawa, who is dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence in homes and communities.
Ms. Marawa plans to utilize the week-long carnival to address this critical issue. Fiji has concerning statistics regarding violence against women, with approximately two-thirds of women experiencing physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner during their lifetime. Furthermore, 60 percent of women encounter difficult situations at home due to a lack of support and abusive environments.
Representing the Nasinu Town Council, Ms. Marawa is familiar with beauty pageants, having participated in the Hibiscus Festival Teen category at just 18. She perceives 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 aims to use this carnival to advocate for change at a national level and is enthusiastic about using her voice for this important cause.
Drawing from her own experiences as the eldest of eight siblings raised by a single mother, Ms. Marawa understands the significant responsibilities that come with family dynamics. Balancing her household duties with her academic pursuits was challenging, but her mother’s steadfast support made her efforts worthwhile.
During this year’s Nasinu Carnival, the young woman from Kadavu will leverage her platform to promote change.