Debra Mauritz is the first female from Nakawakawa Village, Bua to be crowned Miss Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North.

Sponsored by Appex Enterprise, the 20-year-old was awarded the Best Sarong during the weeklong festival at Subrail Park in Labasa.

The second year Bachelor of Marine Science student at University of South Pacific, Laucala campus said: “This crown is not only for me, but for all the nine queen contestants because I believe we are all winners in our own right.”

The aspiring marine biologist’s advocacy message was that a healthy environment equals healthy people.

“Although I come from a rural area away from town and city, I consider myself blessed to participate in this famous event,” she said.

“I would like to thank the contestant committee and committee president for preparing us so that we can participate in this festival.”

Mr Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North winner gets emotional

Mr University of the South Pacific/Pacific TAFE- Lawrence Singh was in tears when he was crowned the Mr Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North at Subrail Park in Labasa last Friday

A day before he was awarded the Mr Personality.

Mr Singh, 19, said he missed his parents who have moved away from Fiji however, he dedicated the win to them for always giving him the opportunity to give back to the community.

“My father, Aman Singh is originally from Wailevu, Labasa and mother, Rose Singh is from Samoa and they are currently in Samoa,” Mr Singh said.

He was sent by his parents to spend one year with his grandparents in Labasa and at the same time pursue foundation studies at USP Pacific TAFE. Aspiring to become a doctor, his advocacy message for the festival was a green step to a flourishing Northern Division

The First Runner Up was Mr Tanoa Electric Works Ravikesh Lal.

Miss Charity winner

Mere Wainiqolo, sponsored by Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC), was crowned Miss Charity during the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North at Subrail Park in Labasa last Saturday.

This is after she contributed the highest amount to the charity chest. Among the 10 queen contestants she contributed $25,555.55 and managed to retain the crown.

Miss Northern Civil Service Sayal Singh was the first runner with $11,091 the amount she collected.

Ms Wainiqolo was chosen by the judges as the Miss Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North first runner up.

She also won the Best Float award. The 22-year-old of Nakobo Village, Cakaudrove , sharing materna links to Makadru, Lau advocate on mental health.