Salanieta Galo is excited to participate in the 2024 Vodafone Nasinu Festival to raise awareness about the importance of addressing women’s health issues. The 21-year-old from Naivucini, Naitasiri, recently faced a personal health scare when she discovered an ovarian cyst late last year.
Representing the Kinoya community and sponsored by Hot Bread Kitchen, she is one of seven candidates competing for the festival crown. Galo emphasizes that women’s health concerns are often overlooked and not taken seriously.
“I would love to educate women of all ages about their reproductive health,” stated the University of the South Pacific student. “Many women tend to ignore this issue and shy away from discussing it, possibly due to embarrassment or fear of stigma.”
In addition to promoting women’s health, she aims to address rising concerns about burglary, theft, and robbery in her neighborhood. Galo plans to establish a charity account to fund the installation of solar street lights, seeking support from local donors. The festival will feature a variety of performances during The Pacific Night this evening, concluding the week-long event on Saturday.