Miss Fiji Dr. Peggy Ravusiro has issued a statement addressing what she describes as misconceptions surrounding her role in the Miss Fiji pageant. Ravusiro clarified that her decision not to represent Fiji stemmed from her refusal to sign a contract she believed inadequately safeguarded her safety, rather than a voluntary withdrawal.
During a media conference, she elaborated on her concerns regarding the contract, specifically a one-sided indemnity clause designed to protect the organizers while providing her no corresponding safety guarantees. “I did not withdraw. I declined to sign a contract that did not ensure my safety. My safety was not negotiable,” Ravusiro emphasized.
Despite voicing these critical issues, Ravusiro expressed disappointment over the lack of direct communication, as all negotiations occurred via email rather than through face-to-face discussions. Moreover, she rejected the narrative portraying her inquiries for clarity as unprofessional behavior. As a medical professional, she highlighted the importance of informed consent and criticized the proceedings for failing to provide her with comprehensive information. “My agency and intelligence as a young Melanesian woman were labelled as unprofessional. Nothing about this process was fully informed,” she stated.
Ravusiro further alleged that her safety concerns were not taken seriously and that there was an expectation for her to simply comply without engaging in meaningful dialogue. She pointed out the absence of essential documentation, such as meeting minutes or professional mediators, to substantiate the process. Additionally, she mentioned that her father’s efforts to support her had been dismissed by pageant officials, underscoring a troubling lack of familial support in her advocacy.
Despite the challenges she face, Ravusiro remains focused on larger issues, stressing that her decision reflects a commitment to improving the treatment and safety of women in pageantry. In a show of solidarity, she extended her support to the current Miss Pacific Islands representative, Ailava Samuels, encouraging both the public and organizers to prioritize Samuels’ welfare throughout the competition. Ravusiro’s stance marks a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about safety and respect for women in the beauty industry.
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