Former Hibiscus Queens return to mentor next generation

Three former Hibiscus Queens are returning to the festival that launched their journeys, volunteering their time and experience to mentor contestants as the iconic event celebrates its 70th anniversary.

Festival director Ellen Whippy-Knight confirmed that former queens Alisi Rabukawaqa (2011), Patricia Naisara (2007) and Michele Smith (1975) would be working behind the scenes during this year's festival, which runs from August 29 to September 5.

"I'm thrilled that behind the scenes this year we have former queens Alisi Rabukawaqa (2011), Patricia Naisara (2007) and Michele Smith (1975) who are volunteering their time. Of course we hope other former queens will join them," Ms Whippy-Knight said.

She said each woman would bring valuable experience to support this year's 12 contestants.

"Each of these three ladies is giving their time, their skills and their unique festival experience to help the current generation of contestants. Alisi will head the complex pageant activities for this year's 12 contestants and we are fortunate to have her mastery of organisational detail. For the show-stopping crowning ceremony at Albert Park on 5 September the MC microphone will be in the polished hands of Patricia Naisara."

After spending many years overseas, Michele Smith has returned to help establish a new mentoring programme for contestants.

"After many years overseas, my primary school classmate Michele Smith has shared her career experience and developed a brand new Queens Mentoring Programme," Ms Whippy-Knight said.

For Ms Smith, returning to the festival more than five decades after winning the crown is about giving back.

"I may once have been a queen, but I've never been a princess. Giving back to the community has been important wherever I've lived and worked, and I'm especially privileged now to give back to Hibiscus after more than 50 years."

Festival organisers are also inviting other former Hibiscus Queens to reconnect with the festival and share their experience with the next generation.

The 2026 Hibiscus Festival marks the event's 70th anniversary. Established in 1956, it remains Fiji's longest-running cultural celebration and will culminate in the crowning of the 2026 Hibiscus Queen at Albert Park on September 5.