Service providers of the recent Miss Universe Fiji 2024 pageant are expressing their frustration over unpaid bills for services rendered during the three-day event held at The Pearl South Pacific Beach Resort. One service provider, Tracey Ann Farrington, who performed as the master of ceremonies on the crowning night, highlighted the struggles of small businesses that are facing financial difficulties due to non-payment from the pageant organizers.
Farrington, who is a boutique owner and fashion designer based in Nadi, also sponsored outfits for the ten contestants and judges. She shared her frustration after receiving a concerning message from a judge regarding the outstanding payments. “I don’t understand why the judge has referred me to a Gmail address to settle my dues, but she did say she resigned because of non-payment concerns,” she stated, expressing her preference for communication via an official Miss Universe domain.
Efforts to reach Paris Jade, the national director for Miss Universe Fiji, for comment went unanswered. Similarly, there was no response from the Miss Universe Organisation.
Recent events have marred the pageant, particularly regarding the crowning of Manshika Prasad as Miss Fiji. Shortly after her crowning, a dispute arose when Nadine Roberts contested the judging process, leading to confusion over who should hold the title. Despite the controversy, the Miss Universe Organisation has stood by Prasad as the official winner.
In light of the situation, Miss Universe Fiji has issued an apology for the turmoil surrounding the title dispute and has requested the Miss Universe Global Organisation to decide on the official representative for Fiji in 2024. The organization expressed hope that Miss Universe would secure another sponsor for the Miss Universe Fiji licensee to enhance the event’s future and ensure a successful and reputable competition.