'This crown is for every young Fijian who dreams of making an impact'

What began as a daughter honoring her father’s wish ended in triumph on Saturday night, as 20-year-old Rhyelle Aisea was crowned Miss Hibiscus 2025 at the Suva Civic Centre.

The newly crowned queen revealed that it was her father, Michael Aisea, who encouraged her to enter the iconic pageant.

“I wasn’t planning on entering the competition, but my dad asked me to take part,” she said.

“At first, I thought it was just for him, but as the weeks went by, I realized this was bigger than us—it was about serving the people of Fiji.”

The Hibiscus Festival, known as Fiji’s 'Mother of All Festivals,' has for decades been more than just a beauty contest. It provides a platform for young women to advocate for social issues while celebrating culture, talent, and leadership.

This year’s contestants addressed pressing national concerns, from climate change to unemployment and drug abuse.

Aisea chose to focus her advocacy on youth empowerment and community development, pledging to use her reign to inspire and support young Fijians.

“Our young people are facing so many challenges,” she said.

“But I believe that with encouragement and the right opportunities, they can rise above them and become leaders in their own right.”

Her father Michael said seeing his daughter crowned was a proud moment for the family.

“I knew she had it in her,” he said.

“I wanted her to see her own potential, and tonight she showed Fiji just that.”

As the confetti settled and supporters crowded the stage for photos, Ms Aisea said her reign will focus on outreach, especially in schools and youth groups, to promote education, leadership, and positive choices.

“This crown is not just for me, it’s for every young Fijian who dreams of making an impact,” she said.

“The real work starts now, and I’m ready.”