During the closing ceremony of the 2025 Miss Tebara Festival, Minister for Information Lynda Tabuya addressed the pressing issue of online abuse, emphasizing the importance of kindness in digital interactions. She urged individuals to be mindful of their words, the comments they make, and the content they share online, amidst the potential dangers posed by digital platforms.
Tabuya articulated that while online platforms have the potential to foster progress and connections, they can also lead to significant harm, including the destruction of lives through cyberbullying and negative commentary. Reflecting on her own experiences with online criticism, she noted that being a public figure inevitably invites both support and harsh scrutiny.
Highlighting the responsibilities that come with public recognition, she encouraged the contestants of the festival to embrace their roles as influential figures. She reminded them that although they will have the opportunity to use their platform to champion causes they are passionate about, they must also prepare for the challenges that public exposure brings, particularly in the form of online abuse and violence.
To counteract the negativity, Tabuya encouraged the contestants to confront criticism with resilience and to focus on promoting positivity. She urged them to craft messages that inspire, empower, and uplift others, rather than being vulnerable to unfavorable opinions shared from behind screens.
The event concluded with a notable highlight as Laisani Blake from Miss Gulam Supermarket was crowned Punjas Fiji Miss Tebara 2025. The festival not only celebrated beauty and talent but also served as a platform for important conversations surrounding the responsibilities of public figures in today’s digital age. Through these discussions, there is hope that future leaders can harness the power of social media for positive change while also understanding the need to support one another against online negativity.
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