The 69th Hibiscus Festival has been praised as a celebration of Fiji’s culture, unity and community spirit, with Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Prof. Biman Prasad, describing it as “the beating heart of our nation.”
Alongside Miss Hibiscus 2025 Rhyelle Aisea (Miss National Fire Authority), Miss Unique Rubber Stamps Temalesi Tuiwalese was named first runner-up, and Miss Leleuvia Resort Tiare Colavoli took second runner-up.
Speaking at the festival’s closing ceremony in Suva, Prof. Prasad congratulated the newly crowned Miss Hibiscus 2025 and commended all ten contestants for their “grace, intelligence and poise.”
“To the ten contestants, you have embodied the festival’s spirit, and you have inspired us all.”
The Acting Prime Minister also thanked the festival’s major sponsor, Flour Mills of Fiji, as well as Vodafone, Coca-Cola, Holiday Inn, Fiji Water, Fiji Airways, Fiji TV, Fiji Times, contestant sponsors and other partners for their contribution.
Prof. Prasad applauded the Suva City Council, the Hibiscus Committee, WWF Pacific, All Nations Youth, and the many volunteers who ensured the festival was safe, clean and family-friendly.
“The Hibiscus Festival is not just a carnival but a platform that empowers our women and youth, strengthens our communities, and reminds us of the power of coming together.”
He described this year’s event as a “resounding success” and said he looked forward to the milestone 70th festival next year.
Prof. Prasad, who personally presented the winner’s bouquet, said it was a privilege to take part in the crowning ceremony and offered his best wishes to the new queen and her fellow contestants.
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.
