Seven contestants are set to compete for the 2024 Miss Nasinu Carnival crown in the upcoming two weeks. One of the participants, Vinaina Marawa, has committed to advocating against domestic violence in homes and communities. Ms. Marawa plans to utilize the week-long carnival to address this critical issue.
Fiji has concerning statistics regarding violence against women, with two-thirds of women experiencing physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner at some point in their lives. Additionally, 60 percent of women face harassment and violence within their own homes, often due to a lack of support.
Representing the Nasinu Town Council, Ms. Marawa is experienced in beauty pageants, having participated in the Hibiscus Festival Teen category at just 18 years old. She views her involvement in events like the Nasinu Carnival as a chance to serve her community with dignity. “It’s not about the clothes or looks; it’s about representing our community,” she stated. She aims to use this carnival to advocate for change at a national level and is eager to raise her voice for this cause.
Ms. Marawa emphasizes that change must start at home. As the eldest of eight siblings raised by a single mother, she has faced considerable responsibilities. Balancing household duties with her education has been challenging, but she credits her mother’s unwavering support for making her journey rewarding. At this year’s Nasinu Carnival, the young woman from Kadavu intends to leverage the platform to push for meaningful change.