Miss Tebara, Shereen Lata, hopes a support centre for men will be set-up soon in Fiji.

The 24-year-old was crowned the 2022 Vodafone Tebara Queen at Syria Park in Nausori on Saturday night.

She said boys and men can be victims of all forms of abuse including domestic violence and rape.

She said as communities change perceptions about who can and cannot be a victim, more men and boys are finding the courage and support to seek the help and care they need.

“I would like to see in the future a support centre for male to support them in the daily challenges they face in life, like the Fiji Women Crisis Centre.”

“There should be one, the question is, why isn’t there a support centre for male. They are also human and have feelings.”

“One day I was sitting at my work place when I stumbled upon the Fiji Police Force annual report on the statistic about males having high suicide rates.”

“Some years back I had a colleague of mine who had lost her husband to suicide, this is why I see this topic as a relevant one to be discussed in public.”

“This centre could be where men can go and speak as they also face not only psychosocial abuse but also physical abuse.”

“We have always known that women have been the victims of abuse but men also face abuse, we need more voices to support our men too,” said the postgraduate diploma in professional accounting student.”

She said she never expected to win the crown because the competition was tough.

“With my performance, I was adamant that I would be placed in the top three during the crowning night, but I never expected to win,” said the Tavua lass.

“I am looking forward to advocate on the same issue on all platforms that I will be given because I genuinely feel that needs attentions.

“The support from my close families and friends was really great, they supported me from day one. My parents helped to raise funds for my charity and friends helped with my outfit.”

She said the win was for every man who faced any form of abuse from their partner, family or friends.

Story By: NACANIELI TUILEVUKA

Feedback: nacanieli@fijisun.com.fj