After a week filled with lively events and a commitment to charitable initiatives, Vani Dianilawe Tobakarakarawa, a 20-year-old, was crowned the new queen of the Vodafone Sugar Festival 2024.
Originating from Waciwaci in Lakeba, Lau, with family ties to Yalobi in Waya, Yasawa, Vani, a law student at the University of Fiji, expressed her gratitude for the honor on Saturday night.
“Words are not enough to express how grateful I am,” she stated. “The journey has not been easy, but many wonderful people have supported and guided me and my fellow contestants to reach this stage.”
Vani, who was sponsored by Travel Consultant and Tours, utilized her new role to call on religious organizations to take action in combating illicit drug use.
“Churches have stepped outside their traditional roles to welcome and nurture affected youths, providing a safe space and essential social support,” she articulated.
Farheen Saheb, Chief Financial Officer of Vodafone, served as the chief guest and emphasized the festival’s charitable focus.
“Charity for the needy is not just a theme for this festival; it reminds us of our shared responsibility to extend a helping hand to those less fortunate and to work towards a more inclusive society,” Ms. Saheb remarked.