Vinaina Tabua Marawa, a resident of Nasole HART, expressed her excitement after being named Miss Nasinu at the 2024 Vodafone and Gavya Nasinu Festival on Saturday.
During the event, she focused on raising awareness about homes and communities impacted by domestic violence. Marawa was one of seven contestants, marking the first Nasinu Festival held in four years.
She emphasized the urgent need to address domestic violence, citing the significant number of women and children affected in local communities. “Winning the Miss Nasinu title is a milestone for me; it aligns with my goal to be an agent for change,” she stated. Marawa acknowledged her mother’s vital support throughout the competition, noting that it was a challenging experience.
The festival, according to her, fostered unity among the Nasinu community and aimed to break down barriers. Marawa also previously participated in the teen category of the Miss Hibiscus Festival at the age of 16.
She views both the Nasinu Festival and similar events as opportunities to serve with dignity and respect. “The week-long festival was centered on advocacy and promoting change on a national level, and I am excited to lend my voice to this cause,” she added.
Reflecting on her background as the eldest of eight siblings raised by a single mother, Marawa acknowledged her responsibilities and the challenges of balancing her household duties with education. She expressed gratitude for her mother’s constant support, which made her journey fulfilling.