Mole Kabu champions HIV awareness at Ba Carnival

Seventeen-year-old Mole Kabu is using her platform at the Fiji Gas Ba Farmers Carnival to advocate for HIV and AIDS awareness among youth, urging them not to feel excluded or ashamed.

“Don’t shy away, you are still part of society,” said Mole, a Year 12 student at Nukuloa College, who is representing Miss Koronubu in the pageant.

Mole believes young people affected by HIV should be supported and empowered, not stigmatised.

Her message of inclusion and compassion has resonated with many during the carnival, which ends tomorrow.

Beyond her advocacy, Mole has set her sights on becoming a biosecurity officer, inspired by her interest in agriculture and science.

“I’m fascinated by their work,” she said. “I take Agriculture, Biology, and Chemistry, which have helped shape my interest in this field.”

Originally from Nadrau, Nadarivatu in Ba, with maternal ties to Nubumakita, Nalawa in Ra, Mole is the fourth of six siblings. Known for her calm presence and graceful charm, she admitted that pageantry wasn’t her initial plan.

“I just went with a friend to the interview and got selected,” she said. “It was unexpected, but I’ve been involved in school oratory and debate competitions.”

Mole also enjoys dancing and singing, and was recently seen in traditional Indian attire during the Indian-themed night at the Vinod Patel ground in Ba.

Her journey reflects a blend of advocacy, ambition, and cultural pride, qualities that make her a standout contestant in this year’s carnival.