Contestants of the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant (MPIP) visited Sabeto Village in Fiji on Monday as part of an enriching cultural immersion program designed to enhance their understanding of the region’s rich traditions. Representatives from American Samoa, Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, and Tonga were warmly greeted by the village elders of the Vanua o Betoraurau, under the leadership of na Momo Levu na Tui Sabeto.
The visit marked the beginning of a morning dedicated to embracing local customs and unraveling the cultural importance of Sabeto. The contestants participated in storytelling sessions and engaged in various traditional practices central to the village’s lifestyle. The elders took this opportunity to impart wisdom about Sabeto’s history, kinship structures, and the values that bind the community together.
This initiative underscores the pageant’s commitment to promoting Pacific identity and fostering cultural awareness among the contestants. The representatives shared their admiration for the similarities they found between Fijian customs and those from their own backgrounds, deeming the visit an enriching experience that enhances regional understanding and unity.
Meaningful interactions between the contestants and local villagers, including women’s groups and youth, added a layer of depth to the experience as they exchanged knowledge about their daily lives and cultural duties.
The cultural immersion program is set to continue throughout the week, with contestants scheduled to engage in a variety of community activities, public events, and additional cultural briefings leading up to the main pageant events. This initiative not only honors the unique heritage of the Pacific islands but also fosters mutual understanding and appreciation amongst the diverse cultures involved, paving the way for a more interconnected future.