Salanieta Galo is excited about participating in the 2024 Vodafone Nasinu Festival to raise awareness about breaking the silence on women’s health issues. The 21-year-old woman from Naivucini, Naitasiri, experienced a cancer scare after discovering an ovarian cyst late last year.
Representing the Kinoya community, Galo is one of seven women competing for the festival crown, with sponsorship from Hot Bread Kitchen. She emphasizes that women’s health concerns are often not given the attention they deserve.
“I want to educate women of all ages about their reproductive health,” said Galo, a student at the University of the South Pacific. “Many women tend to overlook this issue and avoid discussing it, perhaps due to embarrassment or the fear of stigma.”
In addition to health awareness, Galo aims to address the rising crime rates, including burglary and theft, in her community. She plans to establish a charity fund to install street solar lights with the assistance of generous donors. The Pacific Night will showcase various performances this evening, and the week-long festival will conclude this Saturday.