Saturday night at the Back to Ba carnival ended with the crowning of Rukshar Zareen Begum as the carnival queen. Participating in carnivals has built up the confidence of Ms Begum.

The 24-year-old was crowned the Shop N Save sponsored Miss Back to Ba Carnival at the Vinod Patel ground in Ba on Saturday night.

Who is our Back to Ba carnival queen? Ms Begum is a third year Bachelor of Commerce student at the Fiji National University. She resides in Lovu, Lautoka.

She said her involvement in such a feat was not only to raise money for good causes, but to also overcome her stage fright. Her hobbies include exploring, making friends, and cooking. Her chosen career pathway is to be an accountant.

This event has motivated me in a lot of things, my confidence level and ability to perform in public,” she said.

“I actually wanted the crown, but I did not know that I would be here. Overall, it is the theme that we also champion on. Being with these six girls has brought about the best of us.”

Joyful event She thanked all who supported her during the event.

Her mother Rukshana Sofin was overjoyed to see her daughter achieve her goal.

“As a mother, I am proud to see her achieve her dream.”

She wanted to be involved in something like this,” she said.

Shop N Save regional manager west Rohit Chand revealed that the company pledges to sponsor the carnival for the next two years.

“We also especially acknowledge the contestants taking part this year, who have actively been raising funds to enable Ba Vision Centre to extend its services to all villages and settlements.”

WINNERS LIST

• Miss Back to Ba: Miss Rukshar Zareen Begum
• 1st Runner-up: Miss Nazhat Shazia
• Miss Congeniality: Miss Everi Lewenikoro
• Miss personality: Miss Ashmita Chand
• Miss Best Attire: Miss Avantika Prasad
• Miss Charity: Miss Rukshar Zareen
• Best Float Decorations: Miss Aristisha Dev

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj