At just 17 years old, Adi Bose Vakaturaga is seizing the opportunity provided by the Vodafone Sugar Festival to raise awareness about non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their connection to drug use. The festival, which kicked off last Saturday, is being held at the Churchill Park carnival grounds in Lautoka and spans an entire week.
Hailing from Waya in Yasawa and having familial ties to Nabukeru, Yasawa, Ms. Bose is a student at Ami Chandra High School and the Ba Provincial Freebird Institute in Lautoka. Sponsored by Manis Amusements, she is eager to enhance her public speaking abilities. Coming from a large family with eight siblings, she values her family relationships deeply.
“My family was surprised – but happy – because they didn’t know I would be a contestant,” she shared, reflecting on her unexpected journey into the spotlight. Though she admits to feeling nervous, Ms. Bose is committed to fostering camaraderie among her fellow contestants while keeping her ambitions high for the crown.
The queens will soon participate in their first public judging, where they will showcase their talents and advocacy efforts. This festival not only celebrates culture but also serves as a vital platform for addressing significant societal issues like health and drug awareness.
Similar initiatives at other festivals, such as the Vodafone Nasinu Festival, illustrate a growing trend among young contestants who leverage their platforms to advocate against pressing issues. For instance, 19-year-old Salaseini Seruvatu aims to tackle cyberbullying and drug abuse, striving to create supportive environments for youth. Similarly, Vani Dianilawe Tobakarakarawa, the newly crowned queen of the Vodafone Sugar Festival 2024, emphasizes the importance of community support in combating drug-related challenges, encouraging her peers to connect religious organizations with vulnerable individuals.
Ms. Vakaturaga’s efforts reflect a new generation of leaders who are not only competing for titles but are also dedicated to making a difference in their communities. Engaging youth in discussions surrounding health and societal challenges is crucial, and events like the Vodafone Sugar Festival provide a valuable stage for these important conversations. Through her participation, Ms. Bose hopes to inspire others to join the cause in the fight against NCDs and drug-related issues, highlighting the power of advocacy in fostering a healthier society.
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