Seven contestants will compete for the 2024 Miss Nasinu Carnival crown in the next fortnight. Among them is Vinaina Marawa, who plans to advocate the fight against domestic violence within our homes and communities. Ms Marawa is committed to using the week-long carnival to combat this pressing problem.
Fiji has alarmingly high rates of violence against women. Statistics reveal that two-third of women in Fiji are victims of physical or sexual violence from an intimate partner during their lifetime. Additionally, 60 per cent of women face troubling situations within their homes because of lack of support and abuse.
Representing the Nasinu Town Council, Ms Marawa is no stranger to beauty pageants. At just 18, she participated in the Hibiscus Festival Teen category. She views participation in events such as the Nasinu Carnival as an opportunity to serve with dignity and respect.
It’s not about the clothes or looks, it’s about representing our community, Ms Marawa said. This one-week carnival I will focus on advocacy and fostering change at the national level, and I am eager to use my voice for this cause. Ms Marawa believes that initiating change begins at home.
Reflecting on her own experiences as the eldest of eight siblings raised by a single mother, she acknowledges the significant responsibilities she faced. Balancing household duties with her studies was challenging, but her mother’s unwavering support made her journey worthwhile. At this year’s Nasinu Carnival the Kadavu lass will make use of the plat-form to advocate for change.
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