The newly crowned Miss Vodafone Gold N Water Carnival 2025, Stella Mucunabitu, is encouraging the youth of Fiji to avoid the pitfalls of social media dependency and to prioritize real-world experiences. Her remarks came after receiving the title at an event held at Garvey Park in Tavua, where she was honored by the Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa.
Mucunabitu, who represented the Civil Service, used her newfound platform to address the concerns surrounding excessive internet use, stating, “Spending too much time online can lead us to covet what we see on social media, which often leads to issues like cyberbullying and online scams.” She emphasized the importance of exploring the natural world and one’s immediate environment, urging young people to limit their online time and to reconnect with their surroundings.
Her parents expressed pride in her commitment to speaking on such important topics, with her father, Rodney Simpson, highlighting that her journey is not merely about winning titles but gaining valuable leadership experience.
Additionally, Mucunabitu also took home the Best Talent award during the event, which focused on the theme “Defend the Digital World – Say No to Cyber Crime.” The carnival also featured charity initiatives, with Miss Tavualevu, Sera Kiawe, earning the title of Charity Queen for raising the most funds at $5020. Mucunabitu contributed by raising $4030, contributing to a total of $16,897 raised during the carnival.
The festivities concluded with Mucunabitu as the champion, receiving various prizes, including a bar fridge, a mobile phone, and a resort cruise.
This event highlights the increasing awareness among young leaders about the impact of digital platforms on society. It serves as a hopeful reminder that through advocacy and community support, positive change can be fostered. By addressing issues like social media addiction and promoting real-world connections, figures like Mucunabitu inspire others to strive for a balanced and healthier lifestyle.
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