Meet the beautiful Balawakula Marama who is vying for the Miss Asia Pacific International Fiji Franchise.

The 21-year-old is from Naisaumua, Tailevu and is currently pursuing a Degree in Medical Imaging Science at the Fiji National University’s College of Medicine Nursing and Health Science.

The talented student loves dancing and singing and enjoys outdoor activities, getting to meet new people and reading.

Ms Marama is one of eight contestants vying for the local pageant which will be held on September 9.

The winner will represent Fiji in the Miss Asia Pacific International in November in Manila, in the Philippines.

Miss Asia Pacific International is a beauty pageant headquartered in Manila, and has been held in various locations in Asia and Oceania since 1968.

It is said to be one of the oldest pageants in Asia.

The last contestant who represented Fiji in 1988 was former Miss Hibiscus, Lenora Qereqeretabua under the then name Miss Asia Pacific Quest.

Fiji, Samoa, Cook Islands, and Guam will be representing the Pacific in the pageant.

Know your Queen:

What do you think you will enjoy the most during the period of the contest?

Getting to meet new people and spending most of my time with these beautiful individuals who are also taking part.

Person you would like to meet and why?

I would like to meet Queen Elizabeth and it would also be a chance for me to visit Buckingham Palace.

Why do you want to win this contest?

To get a chance to travel overseas and advocate on important issues in Fiji and our neighbouring countries.

I would advocate on climate change since it is an issue that is affecting countries all around the world.

In Fiji, we are already experiencing the effects of climate change like the rise in sea level, high temperatures during the day, very cold nights and so forth.

This is not only happening in Fiji but in our neighbouring island nations as well.

To reduce or prevent climate change in the future, it starts with individuals by doing the little things like refraining from burning rubbish (on that note, dumping rubbish carelessly), using the 3Rs (Recycle, Reuse and reduce). The bottom line is that we need to bring down the level of pollution and use natural resources wisely.

Government should implement harsh fines and this would get the public to think twice about polluting the land and air. The city councils should provide more bins in and around the city.

This matter needs to be looked into more by the government and the public because the future of our children is in our hands.

What is the most unusual thing you have ever done?

Daydreaming while traveling in the bus and not getting off at my destination.

FAVORITES:

Sports Personality – Richie McCaw

Actor – Jason Statham

Singer – Beyonce

Film – Pirates of the Caribbean movies

Song – End of time

Food: Homemade roasted chicken

Colors – Black and White

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

Feedback:  mere.satakala@fijisun.com.fj