Claims of bullying and body shaming have surfaced against the Miss Fiji Pageant Committee following allegations made by Miss Fiji 2025, Dr. Peggy Ravusiro. During a recent press conference, she expressed concerns over her treatment during the pageant, specifically referencing unprofessional remarks regarding her weight.
Dr. Ravusiro revealed that comments were made implying she should lose more weight, and she was told that her weight might disqualify her from the competition. She also recounted being criticized for her team, which included former Miss South Pacific Alisi Rabukawaqa, describing the feedback as damaging and unhelpful.
While recognizing the significance of representing Fiji at regional contests, Dr. Ravusiro emphasized that the concerns were communicated in an inappropriate manner. “Through the lens of pageantry, we are selling female empowerment. From the beginning, that is not something that you say to the contestant that will represent a nation on a regional stage,” she stated.
The Miss Fiji Pageant Committee has yet to publicly respond to these claims but has indicated that a statement will be forthcoming. The ongoing dialogue surrounding body image and empowerment in pageantry underscores the necessity for respectful and supportive environments for all contestants.