The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant 2026 is officially underway in Nadi, Fiji, with queens from various Pacific nations gathering for a week-long celebration that highlights culture, competition, and important dialogues addressing shared challenges within the region. This year’s contestants include representatives such as Miss American Sāmoa Tofoi Unutoa, Miss Cook Islands Petra Mataiti, Miss Fiji Ailava Samuels, Miss Kiribati Atinterentaai Rinimarawa, Miss Papua New Guinea Iampela Popena, Miss Sāmoa Feagaimaali’i Soti Mapu, and Miss Tonga Siosi’ana Taumoepeau.
Notably, the Solomon Islands has withdrawn from this year’s contest, citing unresolved issues stemming from last year’s pageant in Honiara, along with ongoing concerns about transparency and fairness in judging processes. Despite this setback, the event remains a vibrant platform for diplomacy and cultural exchange within the Pacific community.
Ana Tuiketei, the director of Miss Pacific Islands Pageant 2026, expressed excitement over the queens’ arrival, stating that it marks a significant moment for Fiji and the broader Pacific region. “We’re thrilled to welcome seven other Pacific Island countries to Fiji,” she shared, emphasizing the opportunity to showcase cultural diversity while fostering friendship among the nations.
In addition to the pageant events, contestants are preparing research presentations on critical issues impacting Pacific communities. They will address topics such as Environment and Climate Change (Miss Tonga), Education (Miss American Sāmoa), Youth Empowerment (Miss Papua New Guinea), Bullying (Physical and Cyber) (Miss Sāmoa), Culture (Miss Cook Islands), Sports Development (Miss Kiribati), and Drug and Crime (Miss Fiji). The emphasis on research reflects the depth of the event, highlighting the contestants’ commitment to meaningful contributions beyond traditional pageantry.
One standout queen this year is Iampela Popena from Papua New Guinea, who made headlines after a strong performance at the Miss Bird of Paradise pageant where she garnered several awards. The 19-year-old economics student noted her pride in representing her nation on a broader stage and is eager to shine at this regional gathering.
The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant will culminate on Friday and Saturday at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi, and it will be broadcast live on FBC TV and streamed via the VT Plus platform, reaching audiences in at least 16 countries. As the event progresses, it is increasingly viewed as a forum for Pacific women to communicate shared experiences and aspirations, ultimately providing not just a crown to the winner, but a collective voice for the region’s future.
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