Reigning Miss Pacific Islands, Litara Ieremia–Allan, has called upon Pacific communities to reinforce their cultural connections as part of a concerted effort to enhance online safety for young people. Speaking at the World Safer Internet Day event hosted by the Online Safety Commission Fiji on Tuesday, Ieremia–Allan expressed her concerns over the increasing digital connectivity among youth, which appears to coincide with a disconnection from cultural practices and traditions.
“Our young people are so connected on their devices, yet they are increasingly distanced from cultural narratives and practices,” she stated. While acknowledging the diversity within youth communities, Ieremia–Allan pointed to alarming statistics indicating a growing disconnect from cultural roots. She proposed that a more innovative approach to ensuring safer online environments for youth should include encouraging them to engage with their culture in digital spaces.
Her advocacy resonates with the theme of the upcoming Miss Pacific Islands Pageant 2026: “One Pacific. One Voice: Standing together for online safety.” This year’s pageant emphasizes digital empowerment, cultural resilience, and youth protection, uniting contestants from across the region in a collective mission for improved online well-being.
Ieremia–Allan urged communities to creatively incorporate cultural teachings into digital interactions, thereby helping young individuals reconnect with their identities in the virtual sphere. She reflected on the recent visit to Sabeto Village, where the contestants learned about traditional safety measures, which included specific mandates for different age groups, seasonal restrictions, and strong communal accountability systems.
“It requires an intergenerational effort to instill these values in our young people,” she added. “It can’t just be the responsibility of our young pageant sisters; it truly takes a collective effort, including our elders who may not even have access to phones.”
As the Pacific region increasingly embraces digital technology, Ieremia–Allan emphasized the necessity of culturally grounded responses built on traditional practices and village structures. “Your lightest touch can move mountains,” she stated, encouraging collaboration in creating safer online spaces. “Each small effort matters when we all contribute together.”
In a display of solidarity and cultural celebration, Miss Fiji Ailava Samuels hosted a welcoming dinner for Ieremia–Allan and her fellow contestants at the Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island. The gathering fostered connections among contestants, community representatives, and Miss Nadi 2025, celebrating culture, sisterhood, and local cuisine.
Moving forward, contestants are scheduled to deliver their Research Presentations, followed by Sarong Judging and Talent Judging on February 13. The pageant will culminate on February 14 with Traditional Attire Judging and the Crowning Night, where a new Miss Pacific Islands will be crowned and will advocate for cultural pride, women’s leadership, and online safety throughout the region. This pageant promises to be an inspiring event that highlights the strength of community and culture while addressing the vital need for safe digital environments for the younger generation.
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