Sonia Prasad was named Miss Vodafone Rakiraki Carnival 2024 on Saturday at the Fiji Sugar Corporation grounds in Rakiraki.
The 25-year-old, who was sponsored by the Rakiraki Market Vendors Association (RMVA), won several additional titles, including Miss Best Talents, Miss Best Sarong, and Miss Best Research Topic. Ms. Prasad, a nurse at Rakiraki Hospital and a former student of Rakiraki Public School, used the carnival as a platform to encourage young women and girls to get involved in charitable activities.
“If I can do it, you can too,” she stated, highlighting that these events help develop leadership skills and enhance confidence. Ms. Prasad admitted that she entered the carnival to confront her shyness and improve her self-esteem.
“I have never been the type to enter contests and have always been socially awkward. That was why I chose to participate in this carnival to challenge myself,” she shared.
Looking ahead, Ms. Prasad plans to continue her advocacy against illicit drug use. “To the people of Ra, I urge you to stop using drugs because they lead to severe issues and even death,” she warned.