Still coming to terms with her achievement, FMF Miss Hibiscus second runner-up Nicole Matavesi admits she never expected to walk away with one of the major titles of the night.

Representing Miss Superstore, Nicole was named second runner-up during the crowning of the 2026 FMF Miss Hibiscus Festival, bringing an unforgettable journey at Albert Park to a close.

But behind her achievement was a strong group of family, friends and young people who supported her throughout the competition, with her mother Daniella Matavesi proud to watch her daughter grow through the experience.

Nicole says the support she received throughout the journey made a huge difference, especially from her manager and chaperone Antonia Bhagwan, her sponsor team and the many people working behind the scenes.

Her mother also highlighted the young adults who helped bring Nicole’s journey to life, saying it reflected her daughter’s message of youth empowerment.

For Daniella, the title is only one part of her daughter’s journey, saying Nicole has always been an amazing young woman and will continue to achieve great things beyond the Miss Hibiscus stage.

BY: JOELI RAGONELIWA