Melania Tora, the newly crowned Miss Hibiscus, was honored with a traditional welcoming ceremony in her village of Sabeto, Nadi, on Saturday. The local community, known as the Vanua o Betoraurau, celebrated her achievements, as she has effectively promoted both her village and Fiji on an international scale, according to clan leader Kiniviliame Mokotanavanua.
The event was graced by the presence of Tui Sabeto, Ratu Viliame Mataitoga, who expressed pride in Tora’s accomplishments. He remarked, “The vanua is proud of you. Your success shines as a beacon of hope and inspiration to many. Congratulations to our amazing vulau (daughter)!”
Sponsor Tents and Awnings had supported Tora in her recent victory just a fortnight ago. During the ceremony, Ratu Viliame praised Tora for embodying the spirit of her origins, saying, “As we celebrate today, you have shown the world what it means to represent your roots with pride. You carry the spirit of our village in your heart, and we are grateful for how you have honored where you came from.”
He added that while her name may not be widely known yet, the name of her vanua, Na Momo na Tui Sabeto, has gained recognition both in Fiji and worldwide. Tora expressed her gratitude to her chief and the support from her community during the festival, saying, “It was through your support, your guidance, and your prayers that I was able to achieve the Miss Hibiscus crown. Thank you.”