Eighteen-year-old Ciara Radini Nayau Gabriella Ganilau Lee exemplifies a remarkable blend of creativity, intellect, and cultural richness in her pursuits. As the youngest participant in this year’s Hibiscus Festival, she captivates audiences not only with her beauty but also with her exceptional talents and commitment to social initiatives.
Crowned as Miss Moutai, Ciara’s inspiring journey began at home with her mother, Adi Koila Ganilau, where education and entrepreneurial skills were emphasized from a young age. By the age of ten, she was already involved in a family-run clothing business, cultivating resilience, innovation, and a strong entrepreneurial mindset that continues to shape her today.
Ciara’s artistic journey is equally impressive. At the Conservatorium of Music, under the guidance of Master Lai Veikoso, she discovered her passion for the arts. By 13, she had joined the Mata Dance Company, transitioned to the Moana Loa Dance Company, and eventually became a member of the Oceania Dance Theatre at the University of the South Pacific. Under the mentorship of esteemed choreographer Glenville Lord, she has excelled in dance, theatre, and modeling, quickly establishing herself as a rising star.
Her influence, however, extends far beyond the performance arts. At just 14, she began collaborating with the Haus of Koila and the Society of Sustainable Entrepreneurs (SOSE), igniting her passion for social causes. Among her most fulfilling experiences was her three-week stay at Wainiyavi Primary School in Namosi, where she provided essential school supplies and engaged deeply with village life, enhancing her community ties and dedication to service.
As an advocate for pressing global issues such as climate change and human trafficking, Ciara harnesses her dance performances and social media platforms to raise awareness. She has been acknowledged as one of Fiji’s prominent social media influencers through participation in the Regional Pacific NDC Hub’s #SwipeUp4Change initiative, which supports young climate advocates throughout the region. In her impactful role as Mili in the Butakoci Production, she highlighted the grim realities of human trafficking, reflecting her commitment to significant social causes.
Recently, Ciara was invited to Kokomo Island Resort in Kadavu for a trial as a Teens Attendant, where she surpassed expectations, enhancing guest experiences through her engaging approach to activities such as hiking and night snorkeling with manta rays, showcasing her passion for adventure and hospitality.
Supported by her sponsor Kweichow Moutai, a premier Chinese liquor brand known for its quality, Ciara Lee is not only vying for the title of Miss Hibiscus 2024 but also serving as an ambassador of creativity, dedication, and a relentless quest for excellence. The Miss Hibiscus 2024 Festival, scheduled to take place at the Suva Civic Foreshore and Suva Civic Centre from August 31 to September 7, promises to be a remarkable event, with FMF and Vodafone as the Gold sponsors.