Marawa wants to be an agent of change

Nasole HART resident, Vinaina Tabua Marawa was overjoyed after she was crowned Miss Nasinu at the conclusion of the 2024 Vodafone and Gavya Nasinu Festival on Saturday.

She advocated on the issue of homes and communities afflicted by domestic violence.

She was one of the seven contestants. The last Nasinu Festival held was four years ago.

Ms Marawa said advocating against domestic violence was an issue that needed a lot of attention due to the high number of women and children suffering from it within local communities.

“Being crowned Miss Nasinu Crown was a stepping stone in achieving a target of mine; that is to be an agent for change,” Ms Marawa said.

“The competition was tough but I thank my mum for being there throughout the whole competition.”

She said the festival brought the entire Nasinu community together with the hope of breaking barriers.

Ms Marawa also participated in the Miss Hibiscus Festival’s teen category when she was 16 years old.

She said participating in events like the Nasinu Festival as a valuable opportunity to serve with dignity and respect.

“The one-week festival focused on advocacy and fostering change at national level, I am eager to use my voice for this cause,” she said.

Ms Marawa believes that initiating change begins at home. Reflecting on her own experiences as the oldest of eight siblings raised by a single mother, she acknowledged the significant responsibilities she faced.

She said balancing household duties with her studies was challenging, but her mother’s unwavering support made her journey worthwhile.

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