Seven contestants are set to compete for the 2024 Miss Nasinu Carnival title in the upcoming two weeks. One of the candidates, Vinaina Marawa, is focused on raising awareness about domestic violence in homes and communities.
Ms. Marawa plans to utilize the week-long carnival to address this critical issue. Fiji faces disturbingly high rates of violence against women, with statistics indicating that two-thirds of women experience physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner at some point in their lives. Furthermore, 60 percent of women encounter alarming situations at home due to a lack of support and abuse.
Representing the Nasinu Town Council, Ms. Marawa has prior experience in beauty pageants, having participated in the Hibiscus Festival Teen category at only 18 years old. She views 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,” Ms. Marawa stated.
During this carnival, she aims to advocate for change and promote awareness at the national level, expressing her eagerness to use her platform for this important cause. She believes that meaningful change starts at home.
Reflecting on her upbringing as the oldest of eight siblings raised by a single mother, Ms. Marawa highlights the significant responsibilities she had to shoulder. Although balancing household chores with her education was challenging, her mother’s steadfast support made the effort worthwhile. This year at the Nasinu Carnival, the young advocate will strive to create a meaningful impact.