Ailava Samuels, a 19-year-old aspirant from Fiji, has emerged as the newly crowned Miss Pacific Islands 2026, ending a nine-year title drought for her country. Her journey to victory was marked by her resilience in the face of cyberbullying, showcasing not only her determination but also her grace throughout the 37th Miss Pacific Islands Pageant held at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Nadi.
Despite criticism from some quarters, Ms. Samuels showcased her humility and strength, earning admiration from her peers and the audience. In reflecting on her hard-fought victory, she expressed profound gratitude, attributing her success to divine guidance. “I feel so blessed,” she stated, emphasizing the challenges she faced during the competition. “This journey was not an easy one and it has not been an enjoyable one.”
Ms. Samuels credited her family, friends, and fellow contestants for their unwavering support, highlighting the importance of community in overcoming obstacles. She noted, “I will give back all the honour and glory to the Man above for bringing me this far, strengthening me and for reminding me that He knows what He is doing in my life.”
Additionally, she reached the pinnacle of her achievements by also winning the Best Interview award at the pageant. Reflecting on her faith, she shared a cherished Bible verse, Jeremiah 29:11, emphasizing her belief that, despite the hurdles, everything unfolds for a greater purpose guided by divine wisdom. She stated, “What I must do from there is to try and see the positives because at the end of every tunnel is light.”
Support played a crucial role in Ms. Samuels’ journey, including prayers from the Reverend James Bhagwan, who bolstered her confidence as she participated in the competition. Her story is not just a personal triumph but a testament to the enduring spirit of Fiji’s pageantry, inspiring many with her remarkable narrative of faith and perseverance.