Martina Kathleen Tulpe Sigrah, a 19-year-old representing Island Accommodation, will be a key advocate for ocean conservation at the upcoming 2024 Miss Hibiscus Festival in Suva. Sigrah, who earned a bronze medal in the V12 open 500m women’s category at the 2023 Pacific Games, is currently pursuing a dual degree in Journalism and Law at the University of the South Pacific.
Hailing from Rabi, home of the Banabans, Martina has connections to Kiribati and Kosrae Island, and comes from a large family of eight, supported by her parents, three sisters, and two brothers. She took up paddling at the age of 14, inspired by her siblings, and has become the first in her family to wear the national jumper, representing her country on the international stage.
In addition to her athletic pursuits, Martina is also a cultural dancer, focusing on the narratives surrounding the Banaban people’s struggles since colonial times. Her passion for the ocean drives her involvement in beach and ocean clean-up efforts, addressing the issue of pollution.
Her sponsor, Island Accommodation, provides serviced apartments in Suva and Nadi, along with villas in Pacific Harbor, catering to a diverse clientele that includes professionals, families, students, groups, and sports teams. The Hibiscus Festival is scheduled to take place from August 31 to September 7 at the Suva Foreshore and the Civic Centre.