In a glittering ceremony in Nadi, Fiji, Ailava Samuels has been crowned Miss Pacific Islands 2026, ending a six-year drought for the host nation.
Samuels received the crown and sash from Miss Pacific Islands 2025 Litara Ieremia-Allan, marking a historic moment for Fiji.
Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka congratulated Samuels on behalf of the Fijian government, praising her grace, courage, and ability to turn challenges into inspiration.
“You have carried our nation’s hopes with honour and have shown the Pacific the spirit of Fiji: humble, compassionate, resilient, and proud.”
The runners-up were:
- First runner-up: Miss Papua New Guinea, Iampela Popena
- Second runner-up: Miss Samoa, Iliganoa Feagaimali’i Soti
- Third runner-up: Miss Tonga, Siosi’ana Patricia Taumoepeau
- Fourth runner-up: Miss Cook Islands, Petra Mataiti
Special awards presented by Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka highlighted the contestants’ unique talents and contributions:
- Miss Tonga, Siosi’ana Patricia Taumoepeau: Miss Tourism 2026, Best Sarong 2026
- Miss Papua New Guinea, Iampela Popena: Miss Internet 2026, Best Traditionally Inspired Attire 2026
- Miss Cook Islands, Petra Matina Mataiti: Miss Photogenic 2026, Best Talent 2026
- Miss Kiribati, Atiterentaai Rinimarawa: Miss Personality 2026
- Miss Fiji, Ailava Samuels: Best Interview 2026
Samuels’ victory is especially remarkable given her recent experience with cyberbullying. Drawing on her role as an Ambassador for Fiji’s Online Safety Commission, she turned adversity into advocacy, speaking openly about the harms of online attacks and championing safe, respectful digital spaces for Pacific youth.
“I know firsthand how damaging online attacks can,” Samuels said.
“But we have the power to change the narrative around digital behaviour in our Pacific communities.”
The eldest of seven children, with strong Samoan roots, Samuels has built her reputation on resilience, faith, and leadership. Her talents in music, dance, public speaking, and community service reflect a commitment to empowering others while representing Fiji with pride.
Samuels’ triumph not only celebrates her personal achievement but also shines a light on the power of advocacy, resilience, and leadership in the Pacific region.
Support our Journalism
No-nonsense journalism. No paywalls. Whether you’re in Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, or India, you can support The Australia Today by taking a paid subscription via Patreon or donating via PayPal — and help keep honest, fearless journalism alive.
