Queens dive into culture ahead of Miss Fiji Pageant

Miss Fiji pageant contestants today visited the Fiji Museum as part of their cultural preparation ahead of this week’s competition at the Suva Civic Centre.

The Queens attended a church service at Churchward Chapel in the morning, hosted by the Rotuman community, before making their way to the museum at 2.30pm.

Organising committee member Ana Tuiketei said the cultural tour was essential for the contestants' education about Fiji's heritage.

“This ties into the Miss Fiji pageant because Miss Fiji is a celebration of not only beauty and intelligence but also about Fijian culture and displaying Fijian culture,” Ms Tuiketei said.

She said the visit was particularly important as many Fijians have never been to their national museum.

“A lot of people who live in Suva have never been to the museum and a lot of Fijians have never visited the national museum,” she said.

“So we’re also trying to bring attention to educating yourself via visiting the museum and also appeal to children.”

Ms Tuiketei said the tour would help contestants prepare for upcoming segments including talent night, sarong wear, and traditional attire competitions.

“The traditional attire gives us the essence of what materials and other items that they will display that connects them to their own culture,” she said.

Miss Fiji 2019 Jessica Fong encouraged the public to visit the museum during the school holidays.

“Learning about our culture, learning about our history. So you're welcome to come and visit our museum,” Ms Fong said.

Following the museum tour, the contestants attended a private high tea at the Grand Pacific Hotel.

The Miss Fiji Pageant will be held from December 10–13 at the Suva Civic Centre.

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