Manshika Prasad, a 24-year-old from Nausori, has been crowned Miss Universe Fiji and will represent the nation at the upcoming Miss Universe pageant in Mexico this November. The Lakena native, who is pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration in Australia, emerged victorious from a pool of nine finalists at a spectacular event held 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 to continue her academic pursuits. She is deeply committed to raising awareness about domestic violence, a cause she describes as personal due to her observations of its profound impact on individuals and families.
“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,” she stated. Manshika aspires to inspire change and create a society where women are safe, supported, and empowered.
The Miss Universe Fiji event marked the country’s long-awaited return to the international Miss Universe stage after 43 years. The competition featured stunning displays of elegance during fashion parades, including swimwear, resort wear designed by Tracey Ann Farrington, and self-styled formal gowns.
The event was hosted by Tracey Ann Farrington, with Raj Suri serving as both host and judge. The highly anticipated crowning ceremony was conducted by Grant Dwyer, Marketing, Events & Sponsorship Director of Miss Universe Fiji, as the judges presented the category awards.
Co-runners up honors went to 23-year-old Susan Ranadi and 30-year-old Nadine Roberts. The panel of esteemed judges included the Miss Universe Fiji National Director, Grant Dwyer, and various industry professionals.
The category awards presented during the event were as follows:
– 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 (two recipients) – Nadine Roberts and Manshika Prasad
– Cultural Ambassador (two recipients) – Salanieta Galo and Susana Ranadi
– Ocean Ambassador – Nicole Matavesi
– Miss Environment – Ashlin Alveena Prasad (accepted by Judge Jennifer Chan)
– Miss Charity (two recipients) – Prashantika Prasad and Mumta Nandani