'A dream interrupted is not a dream ended': Bula contestant's message of hope

For Anali Vakaloto, the spotlight at the 2026 Nadi Bula Festival is about more than music and the festival crown. It is a chance to remind young people that setbacks do not have to define their future.

The 20-year-old, representing Sharmas Music, has combined her love of music with a message of hope and perseverance, encouraging young Fijians to keep believing in themselves and never give up on their dreams.

Originally from Namuamua, Namosi, Ms Vakaloto holds a Seminary Diploma and said the festival had given her a platform to champion a cause close to her heart — keeping young people connected to education and hopeful about their future.

She hopes her story will encourage those who may have left school early or faced difficult circumstances to keep striving.

"A dream interrupted is not a dream ended. I want every young person who left school early to know their story is still being written," Ms Vakaloto said.

She believes education, faith and determination can help young people overcome life's challenges and create brighter futures.

Throughout the week-long festival, Ms Vakaloto has also showcased her passion for music, reflecting the spirit of the sponsor she proudly represents.

Her performances have earned warm applause from festival-goers at King Charles Park, but she hopes the message she shares will leave an even greater impression.

She said every young person deserved encouragement and another chance to succeed, regardless of the obstacles they faced.

For Ms Vakaloto, wearing the festival sash represents more than a pageant.

She said it is an opportunity to inspire hope, remind others that every setback can become a new beginning, and encourage Fiji's youth to keep believing in their future.

As the Nadi Bula Festival draws to a close with Saturday night's crowning, Ms Vakaloto hopes her message will continue to resonate long after the final performance.