In a heartfelt message at the Vodafone Sugar Festival, contestant Michelle Lambert stressed the importance of families spending quality time with one another. “I believe if you look at it, most parents are not sure what their children do nowadays,” said Lambert, who is sponsored by Lei Entertainers. She highlighted that some parents are unaware of activities such as smoking among their children, prompting her advocacy theme.
At 20 years old and hailing from Navaka, Noco, with family ties to Kulukulu Village in Nadroga, Lambert is one of five contestants competing for the festival’s queen title. Expressing her enthusiasm, she shared, “It’s kind of exciting and a new thing for me. I would say it’s a real journey and I’m happy to be here.” Lambert dedicated a week to prepare her traditional Fijian attire, though she chose to keep the details of her ensemble private.
The festival serves not only as a celebration of culture but also as a platform for empowering young women. Lambert remarked, “It is a place where people can showcase and use their talents, and I believe younger women have the ability and confidence to be strong.”
This year’s festival theme resonates with other contestants as well, such as Vani Dianilawe Tobakarakarawa, crowned queen of the Vodafone Sugar Festival 2024, who has also taken this opportunity to advocate for youth engagement in addressing social issues like drug use. As a cornerstone of community unity, the Vodafone Sugar Festival fosters an environment where young women can share their voices and make significant impacts in the society.
Through their participation, young women like Lambert and Tobakarakarawa demonstrate a commitment not only to cultural representation but also to advocating for positive social change. Their efforts reflect a new generation of leaders who are determined to inspire hope and resilience within their communities.