Tobakarakarawa Takes the Sugar Crown
Law student crowned Vodafone Sugar Festival Queen 2024 after week-long charity event.
Monday 07 October 2024 | 13:43
From left: Second runner-up Miss Mani's Amusement and Rides Arieta Ronaqato Mainatiki, Miss Vodafone Sugar 2024 Vani Tobakarakarawa, and first runner-up Miss Al Sounds and Events Laisa Olivia Vakararawa after the crowning on October 5, 2024. Photo: Supplied
After a week of vibrant activities and dedication to charitable causes, 20-year-old Vani Dianilawe Tobakarakarawa was crowned the new queen of the Vodafone Sugar Festival 2024.
Hailing from Waciwaci, Lakeba, in Lau, with maternal links to Yalobi, Waya, in Yasawa, the University of Fiji law student was still processing her achievement on Saturday night.
"Words are not enough to express how grateful I am," she said.
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"The journey has not been easy, but a lot of wonderful people have supported and guided me and my fellow contestants along the way to reach this stage."
Sponsored by Travel Consultant and Tours, Vani used her platform to advocate for religious organisations to support the fight against illicit drugs.
"Churches have stepped outside their traditional roles to welcome and nurture affected youths, providing a safe space and essential social support," she explained.
Chief guest and Vodafone's Chief Financial Officer, Farheen Saheb, highlighted the festival's focus on charity.
"Charity for the needy is not just a theme for this festival; it reminds us of our shared responsibility to extend a helping hand to those less fortunate and to work towards a more inclusive society," Ms Saheb said.
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