Melania Tora, crowned Miss Hibiscus 2024, showcased her gratitude by attending church to thank God for her recent victory. The 24-year-old highlighted the importance of expressing thanks and praised God, stating that it is essential in her life.
Tora plans to celebrate her win with her family from Sabeto. She has maternal connections to Vanuabalavu in Lau. After the church service at Fiji Connect on the USP Laucala Campus, she shared her feelings about being in the presence of Jesus, acknowledging her imperfections but emphasizing the personal journey she has undergone.
“He has been so gracious and loving to me. I can do things like these because He is with me, and because He is with me, I know I am victorious with the crown or no crown, since the victory is already with Him,” Tora remarked.
She expressed her appreciation for the support she received from her community, saying, “For the vanua to stand behind me is something I didn’t know I needed, but I did. They have been a great support, sending me messages, and I am grateful. I will go and celebrate with them soon.”
With a heart full of love, Tora thanked everyone who supported her throughout the competition and committed to continue advocating for those in need. She mentioned her two years of preparation for this role, highlighting her work with cancer survivors, sex workers, and juveniles through Inspire Pacific.
“I believe this platform allows me to advocate for these organizations and their work on the ground. We need to go beyond them and see some real, sustainable change. I am excited to continue this work and hopefully involve more of my fellow Fijians,” she stated.
Tora expressed her gratitude for having met the other contestants and appreciated their contributions. She described her experience as a privilege that included emotional moments and the reassurance provided by her support system.
Her advice to future participants is to take the leap. “If you are considering to participate next year, please do so. It doesn’t matter where you come from or what ethnicity you are. If you feel you have what it takes to make a real difference in the community and to create a platform like my fellow sisters have done, I encourage you to take that risk. It may be uncomfortable, but it is a once-in-a-lifetime, amazing experience.”