Miss Pacific Islands calls for values in digital spaces

Miss Pacific Islands Ailava Samuels says humility, service and respect must guide digital platforms at all times.

She spoke after winning the title at Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau, Nadi, on Saturday night.

Her victory marked the crown’s return to Fiji for the first time since 2016, when Anne Dunn won the title.

Miss Samuels faced negative comments from local and regional commentators following her win.

She said people had strayed from their values on online platforms such as social media, describing it as a troubling trend.

“Values that we carry from our cultures and traditions, which we practise in person, we practise online,” Miss Samuels said.

She vowed to advocate for safer digital spaces grounded in cultural values.

“I will always advocate for what I am passionate about — creating a safe online community,” she said.

Miss Samuels said the most significant lesson she had learned was that humility, service and respect would pay off.

“That’s what kept me going. When you find yourself in a situation where it feels like everything is not going well, stay humble, trust in God’s plan and continue to serve and respect others,” she said.

Quoting James 4:10, she said: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you.”

“I cannot wait to use this platform to share my message, reach as many people as I can and leave a positive impact wherever I go,” she said.

Miss Samuels said the journey, which began last year and culminated this week, was enjoyable.

“With the support from my family, friends and my beautiful sisters, I feel blessed. Not many people are given this opportunity or receive this level of support,” she said.

She said she was thankful and gave all glory and honour to God.

“He has strengthened me and reminded me that everything happens for a reason,” she said.

Miss Fiji Pageant director Ana Tuiketei said for a 19-year-old to wear the prestigious Pacific crown and become one of the youngest titleholders was a victory for Fiji.

“It is a testament to the strength, resilience and unwavering faith of our youth. Despite every challenge she faced, she chose to put her nation first. That is true leadership. That is the heart of Fiji,” she said.

“We have no doubt she will continue to be a woman of impact in whatever she sets her hands to, always grounded in service and love for her people.

“This moment reminds us that our young people are capable. They are called. They are ready. Fiji is blessed with young women leaders like Ailava who are passionate about serving, uplifting others and being ambassadors of positive change across our Pacific.”

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka congratulated Miss Samuels, describing the victory as a moment of immense national pride.

“In the face of intense scrutiny and challenges, you demonstrated remarkable composure and strength of character,” he said.