Newly crowned Miss Fiji, Dr. Peggy Ravusiro, is speaking out about the increasing brutality of online public opinion in Fiji, urging citizens to engage in conversations with more kindness and empathy. In an interview, she emphasized the need for Fijians to “learn how to talk to each other better,” highlighting that simple greetings like “How are you?” or “How are you feeling?” are often neglected in current discourse.
Dr. Ravusiro believes that a lack of respectful dialogue impedes the nation’s progress. She advocates for compassion, stating, “Be kind and caring even to people who may persecute you,” asserting that mirroring negative energy leads to no constructive outcome. Her call to action also includes instilling these values in children from a young age.
Drawing from her expertise in psychiatry, Dr. Ravusiro noted that childhood development is crucial for shaping personality and resilience. She outlined that key developmental milestones must be met to avoid personality deficits in adulthood. Her insights underline the importance of emotional foundations laid during formative years.
She cautioned that treatment for adults can be challenging, as reprogramming established behaviors is often a lengthy undertaking. Thus, her focus is on making a grassroots impact. Dr. Ravusiro is particularly concerned about the emotional well-being of Fiji’s youth, pointing out that issues like the HIV crisis, drug use, and homelessness can often be traced back to a lack of emotional nurturing in childhood.
Reflecting on her future, Dr. Ravusiro expressed a desire for spontaneity, stating she prefers to let her life’s direction unfold naturally. “I love to be spontaneous and let God make my Picasso, my mosaic,” she remarked, affirming her commitment to serve wherever she may be called.
Dr. Ravusiro’s message is a hopeful reminder of the power of kindness and the profound impact it can have on both personal and societal levels, encouraging Fijians to cultivate empathy and support for one another as a means to foster a healthier community.