Manshika Prasad, a 24-year-old beauty from Nausori, will represent Fiji at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico this coming mid-November. The Lakena native, who is studying for a Master’s in Business Administration in Australia, was selected from a group of nine finalists during a glamorous crowning ceremony at the Pearl South Pacific Resort in Pacific Harbour.
Manshika completed her primary and secondary education at Saraswati Primary School and Bhawani Dayal Arya College before moving abroad for her studies. She is dedicated to advocating against domestic violence, a cause she holds close to her heart. “This cause is deeply personal to me, as I have witnessed the devastating impact it has on individuals and families,” she stated. “I don’t seek this title for the glitz, glamour, or personal gain. Instead, I aim to use the Miss Universe platform to amplify the voices of those silenced by fear and violence. My goal is to raise awareness, inspire change, and help create a society where women feel safe, supported, and empowered.”
The Miss Universe Fiji event marked the country’s long-awaited return to the global stage, 43 years after its last participation. The finalists dazzled the audience with three stunning fashion shows. The event was hosted by Tracey Ann Farrington, who also served as the official MC and a judge, alongside Raj Suri, who managed category award presentations and the crowning ceremony.
The contestants impressed onlookers with their poise and beauty during the swimwear, resort wear designed by Tracey Ann Farrington, and formal gown segments. The crown was awarded to Manshika by Grant Dwyer, the Marketing, Events & Sponsorship Director of the organization, with judges distributing various category awards.
Co-runners up were 23-year-old Susan Ranadi and 30-year-old Nadine Roberts. The esteemed judging panel included Paris Jade, Grant Dwyer, Natalie Marletta, Riri Febriani, Raj Suri, Jennifer Chan, and Melissa White.
Miss Universe Fiji 2024 Category Awards included:
– Miss Swimwear – Manshika Prasad
– 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 Ambassador x 2 – Nadine Roberts and Manshika Prasad
– Cultural Ambassador x 2 – Salanieta Galo and Susana Ranadi
– Ocean Ambassador – Nicole Matavesi
– Miss Environment – Ashlin Alveena Prasad (received on Ashlin’s behalf by Judge Jennifer Chan due to Ashlin’s personal health reasons)
– Miss Charity x 2 – Prashantika Prasad and Mumta Nandani