Sala Toganivalu, a 22-year-old teacher, was crowned Miss Hibiscus 1991, a moment filled with both happiness and sadness. In an interview with a local newspaper, Toganivalu described her victory as an “uplifting” and “once-in-a-lifetime” experience, although the recent loss of her grandfather cast a shadow over the celebration.
She expressed her sorrow over her grandfather’s passing, which had occurred just a week prior. “I’m sad that my grandfather, who I was close to, was not alive to see me crowned,” she shared. Just 15 minutes before arriving at the event, her mother had informed her about her grandfather’s death.
Despite her grief, her family motivated her to fulfill her engagements as a contestant. “My family gave me the courage to carry on and win despite feeling really down because of my grandfather,” she said. Although she had initially missed several pre-carnival events, her family persuaded her to attend the Rotary luncheon and other activities.
Ms. Toganivalu, who was not initially focused on winning, found strength in her family’s support, which helped her deliver a confident and heartfelt victory speech. During the speech, she expressed her appreciation for everyone who had supported her, including staff from the Fiji Trade and Investment Board, her mother, sisters, and the people of Suva.
The 1991 Hibiscus Carnival was a tremendous success, raising a record total of $122,284.04 for charity, with Miss Charity Ulamila Raikadroka contributing $44,000 of that amount. The final day attracted an impressive turnout of 20,000 people, enjoying the festivities after a week of poor weather.
The following day, Ms. Toganivalu spent time with family at her uncle’s home in Tamavua, surrounded by loved ones and local artists.