Gold N Water Queen vows to use crown to fight substance abuse

Newly crowned Vodafone Gold N Water Queen 2026 Unaisi Valaibulu hopes to use her title to campaign against substance abuse while pursuing her dream of becoming the first lawyer in her family.

The Tavua College Year 13 student, sponsored by Dayals Quarries, was crowned at the end of the week-long festival at Garvey Park on Saturday night.

Unaisi said she hoped to inspire young people and use her platform to address issues affecting them.

"I want to advocate for justice, stand up for those who may not have a voice of their own, and contribute meaningfully to the development of our beloved nation," Ms Valaibulu said.

Originally from Wailevu, Tunuloa, with maternal links to Wairiki, Bua, she dedicated her crown to her parents, family, youth groups, friends, her designer, make-up artist, Papa Joey and Auntie Elma.

"They have stood by me, inspired me, and encouraged me.

"As the reigning Gold N Water Queen 2026, I will use this platform to advocate on issues related to substance abuse affecting our nation today.

"I've read about and watched young people my age become vulnerable to peer pressure and substance abuse. It has affected many of them negatively, and I want to make a difference by being a positive influence on our youth."

Her grandmother, after whom she is named, said she was proud of her granddaughter's achievement.

Meanwhile, Miss Vatukoula Gold Mining Limited, Ro Ateca Vuidreketi, won the Miss Charity title.

The 24-year-old hails from Burebasaga, Rewa, and works as an Instrumentation Trades Assistant at Vatukoula Gold Mines Pte Ltd.