'Meth steals dreams,' says carnival contestant
Adivaranisese Baravi says raising awareness about methamphetamine is more important than winning a carnival crown.
Monday 27 July 2026 | 10:30
From left, Miss Tanoa Electricals Adivaranisese Baravi, Miss Naqai Taxis and Car Wash Alice Cerenasiga, Miss Shield Security Services Mere Sigavunau, and Miss North Waste Management Veronika Likurua.
Photo: Shratika Naidu
Methamphetamine may offer a temporary escape, but it can have permanent consequences, says FMF Duavata Northern Crime Prevention Carnival queen contestant Adivaranisese Baravi.
Using the week-long carnival at Subrail Park in Labasa as her platform, Ms Baravi is raising awareness about the dangers of methamphetamine, commonly known as meth or ice.
Sponsored by Tanoa Electricals, the 18-year-old is urging people, particularly young Fijians, to reject drugs and choose a better future.
Related stories
"Recent reports show that deaths involving methamphetamine around the world increased from about 9,400 in 2017 to more than 34,000 in 2023," Ms Baravi said.
"Behind every statistic is a real person — a son, daughter, friend or loved one whose life was cut short."
The Tovata, Labasa, resident said the figures showed methamphetamine abuse was a matter of life and death.
"We can choose education over drug addiction, purpose over peer pressure and hope over hopelessness," the aspiring nurse said.
"I remind everyone that meth steals dreams, breaks families, destroys communities and, in many cases, takes lives."
Ms Baravi, a Year 13 student at Shri Guru Nanak Khalsa College in Labasa, said raising awareness about the dangers of methamphetamine meant more to her than competing for a carnival crown.
The FMF Duavata Northern Crime Prevention Carnival ends on Saturday at Subrail Park in Labasa.
Feedback: shratikan@fijisun.com.fj
