Ailava Samuel, a courageous 19-year-old, is utilizing the platform of the 2025 Nasinu Festival to challenge harmful beauty standards prevalent in the Pacific. Her advocacy focuses on the negative effects these ideals have had, including fueling racism, colorism, and online bullying. Samuel is eager to shed light on these issues, emphasizing the normalization of cyberbullying and its impact on individuals.
Samuel’s participation in the festival is not just about competing but also about fostering friendships and learning from her fellow contestants. She is committed to promoting positivity and raising awareness about the real harm caused by cyberbullying. Through her efforts, Samuel hopes to transform perceptions of beauty, combat discrimination, and foster a more inclusive and respectful online culture within the Pacific region.
This initiative aligns with previous advocacy efforts seen in similar events like the Vodafone Nasinu Festival, where contestants have addressed issues such as cyberbullying, drug abuse, and the importance of a supportive community. By pushing forward with her mission, Samuel follows in the footsteps of other young advocates like Salaseini Seruvatu, who has also used pageantry as a platform to tackle social issues affecting youth and families.
Samuel’s dedication underscores a broader movement across various festivals in Fiji, where contestants use their platforms to highlight pressing social and health-related issues. The efforts of these young leaders signify a hopeful future, as they encourage collective action and community engagement to address critical challenges. Through their advocacy, festivals are proving to be more than just celebrations, serving as crucial venues for sparking conversation and inspiring meaningful change.