Miss Hibiscus Challenges Women to Join the Cause
“For the vanua to stand behind me is something I didn’t know I needed, but I did. They have been a great support, sending me messages, and I am grateful. I will go and celebrate with them soon. I am very excited for them."
Monday 09 September 2024 | 10:31
2024 Miss Hibiscus Melania Tora with her fellow youth members after the church service at USP Laucala Campus on September 8, 2024. Photo: Wati Talebula-Nuku
True to her word, the 2024 Miss Hibiscus Melania Tora did not let the week’s hype and activities tear her spirit as she attended church to give thanks to God for the victory.
She emphasised giving thanks and praising God was non-negotiable.
The 24-year-old is looking forward to celebrating her victory with her Sabeto family soon.
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She shares maternal links to Vanuabalavu, Lau.
"Being with Jesus is so wonderful. I am not perfect in any way, shape, or form, but I have had my own journey and testimony," she said after the service at Fiji Connect Held the USP Laucala Campus yesterday.
“He has been so gracious and loving to me. I can do things like these because He is with me, and because He is with me, I know I am victorious with the crown or no crown, since the victory is already with Him,” Ms Tora said.
“For the vanua to stand behind me is something I didn’t know I needed, but I did.
“They have been a great support, sending me messages, and I am grateful. I will go and celebrate with them soon. I am very excited for them.
“I am overwhelmed with love and thank you to everyone that supported me throughout the one week.”
Ms Tora said she would continue to advocate for those who need her support.
“Without even realising it, I have been preparing for this platform for the last two years. I have been working in the community with cancer survivors, sex workers, juveniles, and Inspire Pacific," she said.
“I believe this platform allows me to advocate for these organisations and their work on the ground. We need to go beyond them and see some real, sustainable change.
“I am excited to continue this work and hopefully involve more of my fellow Fijians.”
Ms Tora expressed her gratitude for having met the other contestants and for each of their contribu-tions.
“It has been a privilege to be on this platform and to get to know all the wonderful women and every-one involved in the team.
“It was overwhelming early mornings and many tears along the way, but they were happy tears. I know I have strength in the Lord, and I’m fortunate to have a great support system.”
Make the real difference
Her advice to those planning to participate next year is: “If you are considering to participate next year, please do so. It doesn’t matter where you come from or what ethnicity you are.
“If you feel you have what it takes to make a real difference in the community and to create a platform like my fellow sisters have done, I encourage you to take that risk. It may be uncomfortable, but it is a once in a lifetime, amazing experience.”
Feedback: wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj
