Shyla Prasad, representing the Ministry of Health, is set to promote wellness at this year’s Hibiscus Festival, emphasizing the significance of healthcare in areas such as HIV and AIDS, non-communicable diseases, and mental health.
A Medical Laboratory Scientist, Shyla grew up in Lautoka and attended Natabua High School before pursuing her Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science at the College of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences in Suva. She now has three years of experience working at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWM), where she feels privileged to represent her employer on the Miss Hibiscus platform.
Shyla’s connection to Suva deepens through her work at CWM, Fiji’s largest historical hospital, which celebrates its 101st anniversary this year. The hospital honors Fijians who served in World War I, enhancing its significance for her.
In addition to her medical career, Shyla enjoys sports, travel, and fishing, and she actively participates in volunteer work. She has engaged in outreach programs with the Sai Prema Foundation and has contributed to the care of stray animals in her community, aspiring to one day open her own animal shelter.
Shyla is one of ten contestants competing for the title at the 68th annual Hibiscus Festival, held at the Suva Civic Foreshore and Suva Civic Centre from August 31 to September 7. The event, with FMF and Vodafone as Gold Sponsors, is expected to be a significant celebration of Fiji’s talent and advocacy.