Nineteen-year-old Martina Kathleen Tulpe Sigrah will promote the significance of ocean conservation during the 2024 Miss Hibiscus Festival in Suva. A bronze medalist in the V12 open 500m women’s event at the 2023 Pacific Games, she is representing Island Accommodation.
Martina is currently pursuing a degree in Journalism and Law at the University of the South Pacific. Hailing from Rabi, home to the Banaban community, she has cultural ties to Kiribati and Kosrae Island. Coming from a family of eight, she values the support of her parents, three sisters, and two brothers.
Inspired by her siblings, who are enthusiastic paddlers, Martina began her journey in the sport at the age of 14. Their encouragement has allowed her to become the first in her family to wear the national jumper and showcase her talent internationally.
In addition to her athletic pursuits, Martina is a cultural dancer, working to highlight the struggles of the Banaban people throughout history. Her passion for the ocean drives her to engage in beach clean-up efforts, addressing the issue of pollution affecting marine environments.
Martina is sponsored by Island Accommodation, which offers serviced apartments in Suva and Nadi, as well as villas in Pacific Harbor. The company provides hospitality services catering to local and international markets, serving professionals, families, students, groups, and sports teams.
The Hibiscus Festival is scheduled to take place from August 31 to September 7 at the Suva Foreshore and Civic Centre.