Crowned for a cause: Miss NFA’s victory sparks fire safety revolution
With 5.1 million views and thousands engaged, Rhyelle Aisea’s win becomes a symbol of teamwork, resilience, and national impact.
Friday 03 October 2025 | 23:30
From left: Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Nalumisa, Miss Hibiscus 2025 Rhyelle Aisea and National Fire Authority chief executive officer Puamau Sowane at the NFA headquarters in Walu Bay, Lami.
National Fire Authority (NFA) chief executive officer Puamau Sowane says the crowning of Miss NFA, Rhyelle Aisea, as Miss Hibiscus 2025 marks a historic moment for the organisation and the biggest public awareness campaign in its history.
Mr Sowane told staff and stakeholders at a celebration yesterday at NFA headquarters in Walu Bay, Lami, that the win was a reflection of teamwork and a milestone in taking fire safety messages to a wider audience.
“Our participation in the Miss Hibiscus Festival this year has been NFA’s biggest public awareness campaign in history. From live demonstrations to online presence, we were able to showcase who we are, what we do, and most importantly, remind the nation of our emergency number – 910,” he said.
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He said the initiative had reached thousands across the country, with the NFA’s social media page gaining more than 9,600 new followers and 5.1 million views during the festival week.
“This was not just about beauty and culture, it was about visibility, awareness, and community connection,” Mr Sowane said.
He thanked the Minister for Local Government and Housing, Maciu Nalumisa, for supporting NFA’s involvement, corporate sponsors for their partnership, and the Aisea family for raising “a remarkable young woman” who carried the NFA brand with pride.
The event was attended by Mr Nalumisa, Suva City Council acting chief executive Tevita Boseiwaqa, sponsors, NFA senior management, divisional officers and staff from all three divisions.
Mr Nalumisa congratulated NFA for using the festival platform to advocate fire safety and resilience within communities, while also paying tribute to the Rotuman community and Ms Aisea’s family.
“This victory is not just Rhyelle’s—it belongs to all of us. Together, we showed what can be achieved when teamwork, passion, and service unite,” Mr Sowane said.
