Ailava Samuels, the first runner-up of the Miss Fiji Pageant, will represent Fiji at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant next month.

This was confirmed by the Miss Fiji Secretariat at a press conference this morning.

Miss Fiji winner Peggy Ravusiro will not be able to take part due to personal reasons.

The Secretariat says Ravusiro was unable to sign her participation contract despite several attempts.

Miss Fiji Pageant Director Ana Tuiketei says the decision was made to ensure Fiji meets the pageant’s timelines and participation requirements.

Tuiketei says Samuels was offered the same contract last week and formally accepted the role.

Samuels is currently serving her Nasinu community and is also one of Fiji’s Online Safety Ambassadors. She has previously represented Fiji at the Oceania Athletics Championships while in Year 13.

The Miss Fiji Secretariat says Samuels is well prepared and will represent Fiji with pride at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant next month.

By: JOELI RAGONELIWA