The Miss Universe Fiji 2024 crown was proudly claimed by 24-year-old Manshika Prasad, a native of Lakena Nausori currently pursuing an MBA in Australia.
On being crowned Miss Universe Fiji 2024, Manshika Prasad said:
“My passion is advocating against domestic violence, a cause deeply personal to me. I aim to use the Miss Universe platform to amplify the voices of those silenced by fear and violence, raising awareness and inspiring change.”
Sharing the spotlight as co-runners up were 23-year-old Susana Ranadi, from the island of Ekubu and raised in Lautoka, and 30-year-old Nadine Roberts.
Nadine Roberts, Co-Runner Up Miss Universe Fiji 2024, said:
“I am a professional singer, dancer, and property manager, dedicated to empowering young girls and women in Fiji. My mission is to inspire the future generation to shine and reach their full potential.”
Susana Ranadi, Co-Runner Up Miss Universe Fiji 2024, added:
“With six years of experience as a fashion model, I’m now focusing on becoming a model agent in Fiji, using my industry knowledge to mentor aspiring models. Empowering women means lifting each other up and breaking barriers.”
Hosted at the opulent Pearl Resort & Spa, the Miss Universe Fiji 2024 Gala Crowning Event marked a spectacular return to the global stage for Fiji, ending a 43-year hiatus.
The evening brought together the nation’s elite from the hospitality, business, and fashion sectors, making it a night to remember.
The evening began with a red carpet event, where the Top 9 finalists dazzled in evening and cocktail dresses by designer Tracey Ann Farrington. The pre-event cocktail reception, hosted by Natalie Marletta, General Manager of The Pearl Resort, set the tone for the night, as VIPs and guests mingled and enjoyed drinks.
The gala itself was a feast for the senses, with a lavish buffet dinner followed by electrifying performances from the award-winning Vou Dance Group and Bitz n Pieces Band.
The finalists showcased their beauty and poise in three fashion parades, featuring swimwear, resort wear designed by Tracey Ann Farrington, and formal gowns of their own creation.
Throughout the evening, Raj Suri, a host and judge, guided the event with his voice-over and presentations, while Tracey Ann Farrington served as the official MC. The pinnacle of the night was the crowning ceremony, with Grant Dwyer, Miss Universe Fiji’s Marketing, Events & Sponsorship Director, bestowing the coveted crown upon the winner.
The contestants were recognised in various categories for their outstanding performances. Susana Ranadi was awarded Best Catwalk, while Nadine Roberts and Manshika Prasad were honoured as Fashion Ambassadors. Nadine also took home the Best Evening Gown award for her stunning Minh Tuan Couture creation.
The gala concluded with a breathtaking fireworks display, a fitting end to a night that celebrated Fiji’s triumphant return to the Miss Universe platform.
Category Awards included:
- Miss Swimwear – Manshika Prasad
- Miss Congeniality – Kathleen Mason
- Best Smile – Salanieta Galo
- Best Catwalk – Susana Ranadi
- Miss Fitness – Nicole Matavesi
- Best Evening Gown – Nadine Roberts
- Miss Social Media – Nadine Roberts
- Miss Rising Star – Narishma Sharma
- Miss Photogenic – Prashantika Prasad
- Fashion Ambassador – Nadine Roberts and Manshika Prasad
- Cultural Ambassador – Salanieta Galo and Susana Ranadi
- Ocean Ambassador – Nicole Matavesi
- Miss Environment – Ashlin Alveena Prasad (received by Judge Jennifer Chan due to Ashlin’s health-related withdrawal)
- Miss Charity – Prashantika Prasad and Mumta Nandani
The panel of judges included:
- Paris Jade, Miss Universe Fiji National Director
- Grant Dwyer, Miss Universe Fiji Marketing, Events & Sponsorship Director
- Natalie Marletta, General Manager of The Pearl Resort & Spa, Fiji
- Riri Febriani, Lux Projects Fiji
- Raj Suri, Photographer, Bollywood Co-Producer, Actor, and Talent Mentor
- Jennifer Chan, USA On-Air TV Host, Style, and Beauty Expert
- Melissa White, Seakeepers.org South Pacific Director
Over the past three days, the Miss Universe Fiji 2024 finalists experienced an unforgettable journey at The Pearl Resort. Fashion photo shoots with renowned photographer Raj Suri, exclusive dinners, and vibrant Fijian performances, including the thrilling Walking on Fire shows, created lasting memories for the contestants.
Miss Universe Fiji 2024 is officially licensed by LUX Projects Fiji, a prominent international property development company. The event was graciously hosted by The Pearl Resort & Spa, with Natalie Marletta providing exceptional support.
Manshika Prasad, as the newly crowned Miss Universe Fiji 2024, will now represent Fiji at the Miss Universe International Final in Mexico City this November.
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