Isabella Raidriwa champions better health at Friendly North Festival

For Isabella Sarafina Helen Raidriwa, competing at this year’s Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North is less about defending Labasa Divisional Hospital’s winning streak and more about using the platform to promote better health and opportunities for people in the North.

The 24-year-old medical laboratory scientist will represent Labasa Divisional Hospital at the weeklong festival, which begins on August 29 at Subrail Park, Labasa.

The hospital has retained both the Miss Charity and Miss Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North titles for two consecutive years, placing expectations on this year’s representative.

Ms Raidriwa, however, sees that record as motivation.

“I do feel the expectation, but I choose to see it as motivation rather than pressure,” Ms Raidriwa said.

“I am here not only to compete for a crown, but to represent a cause, to serve the community of Labasa and the North, and to be a voice for positive change.”

Health creates opportunities

Her campaign will centre on the message “Great health creates greater opportunities”, encouraging people to see their health as an investment in their future.

“I would like to make a positive plea to the people of the North that investing in health means investing in their future,” she said.

“My journey is about creating an impact, inspiring the youths of the North and making the Labasa Divisional Hospital and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services proud.

“I believe that health is the foundation upon which individuals, families and communities can build a successful future.”

Originally from Dreke Village in Nadi, with maternal links to Suvavou in Rewa Province, Ms Raidriwa said she joined the festival to challenge herself, develop as a leader and connect with people from different backgrounds.

She also hopes to be a role model who represents compassion, service and commitment to the people of Vanua Levu.

“This festival celebrates our culture, unity and resilience, and I am honoured to be part of a movement that brings hope and positive transformation to our communities,” she said.

Message to young people

Ms Raidriwa hopes to use the festival platform to encourage young people in the North to prioritise their health and believe in their potential.

“My goal is to encourage our young people to prioritise their health, believe in themselves and understand that good health creates greater opportunities.

“I hope to be a voice for healthier choices, stronger communities and a brighter future for the North.”

Ms Raidriwa also hopes to make her friends and family proud, particularly her mother, Helen Dyer.