Manshika Prasad, a 24-year-old beauty from Nausori, has been chosen to represent Fiji at the 2024 Miss Universe pageant scheduled for mid-November in Mexico. The crowning ceremony took place on Friday night at the Pearl South Pacific Resort in Pacific Harbour, where she was selected from a competitive pool of nine finalists.
Manshika, who hails from Lakena and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration in Australia, has a solid educational background with her primary and secondary studies at Saraswati Primary School and Bhawani Dayal Arya College. She is committed to advocating against domestic violence, a cause she describes as deeply personal due to the impact she has witnessed on individuals and families.
“I do not seek this title for the glitz and glamour, but to use the Miss Universe platform to give a voice to those silenced by fear and violence,” she stated. Her aim is to raise awareness, inspire change, and foster a society where women feel safe, supported, and empowered.
The Miss Universe Fiji event was significant as it marked Fiji’s return to the global Miss Universe stage after 43 years. The finalists displayed their elegance through three captivating fashion parades, showcasing swimwear, resort wear, and formal gowns, with designs by Tracey Ann Farrington.
The ceremony was led by emcee Tracey Ann Farrington and judge Raj Suri, who handled the voiceovers and category award presentations. The crown was presented to Manshika by Grant Dwyer, the Marketing, Events & Sponsorship Director of the organization. Following her, 23-year-old Susan Ranadi and 30-year-old Nadine Roberts were named co-runners-up.
The judging panel included notable figures such as Paris Jade, Grant Dwyer, and various industry professionals.
Manshika Prasad also won the Miss Swimwear title, with other category awards presented during the event:
– Miss Congeniality: Kathleen Mason
– Best Smile: Salanieta Galo
– Best Catwalk: Susana Ranadi
– Miss Fitness: Nicole Matavesi
– Best Evening Gown: Nadine Roberts
– Miss Social Media: Nadine Roberts
– Miss Rising Star: Narishma Sharma
– Miss Photogenic: Prashantika Prasad
– Fashion Ambassadors: Nadine Roberts and Manshika Prasad
– Cultural Ambassadors: Salanieta Galo and Susana Ranadi
– Ocean Ambassador: Nicole Matavesi
– Miss Environment: Ashlin Alveena Prasad
– Miss Charity: Prashantika Prasad and Mumta Nandani.