A controversial decision by judges on the night incorrectly awarded the wrong winner at the Gala Top Ten finalists Event held at the Pearl Resort last night, that has led heartbreak and tears for two contestants.
The actual winner of the top 10 was Nadine Roberts, but she was announced as the Runner Up on the night, after a rushed announcement and error.
Unfortunately for Miss Roberts, this has happened to her twice now, after the pageant wrongly announced another winner Manshika Prasad.
It’s not the first time this has happened in the beauty pageant world, but could have been easily avoided, if the contracted organiser had followed correct procedures in the event.
The 8 votes had led to a tie, meaning the licensee holder must then decide on the winner, not the contracted organiser, who wanted a Fiji Indian winner to leverage potential Global Business deals. A failure to count the licensee vote, to ensure only the Fiji Indian contestant would win by the judges, against a local Fiji non Indian contestant winning.
7 judges plus one vote by licensee holder, left the two girls with 4 votes each, an internal review revealed, after concerns were raised by the local licensee representative on the night , sent to ensure transparency in voting calculations.
The contracted organiser failed to count the licensee vote, and failed to then consult in the event of a tie, who has the determining vote to decide who is best to represent MUF at the finals in Mexico, in November later this year.
Despite concerns raised on the night by the local licensee representative that was in attendance, that the Licensee vote must be counted, and then consulted in the event of a tie, to then decide on the winner, the contracted organiser rushed to announce their favourite candidate as the winner on the night, creating unnecessary confusion and controversy.
The MUF licensee representative said it’s upsetting when such errors occur that taint what has been a very successful event, and with amazing contestants and a top ten that Fiji can be proud of.
The close competition however means that such an event will only get bigger and stronger in the years ahead, and we congratulate Nadine Roberts on being chosen as MUF 2024, and thank all the contestants for their contribution and efforts.
The Miss Universe brought together Fiji’s elite in hospitality, business, and fashion. Hosted at the luxurious The Pearl Resort & Spa, the event marked the country’s long-awaited return to the Miss Universe global stage, 43 years after its last participation.
Pre Event Red Carpet Cocktail/Drinks
The Gala Event began with a glamorous red carpet photo opportunity featuring the Miss Universe 2024 Fiji Top 9 Finalists, all adorned in stunning Tracey Ann Farrington evening and cocktail dresses. Following this, VIPs and guests were treated to pre-event drinks hosted by Natalie Marletta, General Manager of The Pearl Resort.
The Crowning Event
The Miss Universe Fiji 2024 crowning gala was a night of culinary delights, captivating entertainment, and stunning fashion.
After a sumptuous buffet dinner, VIPs and guests were treated to electrifying performances by the award-winning Vou Dance Group and Bitz n Pieces Band. The nine finalists showcased their elegance in three breathtaking fashion parades. Tracey Ann Farrington, the official MC, and Raj Suri, a host and judge, presided over the event, with Raj handling the voiceovers and category award presentations, including the crowning ceremony.
The Miss Universe Fiji 2024 contestants captivated the crowd with their beauty and confidence in three breathtaking fashion parades: swimwear, resort wear featuring Tracey Ann Farrington designs and a formal gown parade in self-styled creations.
Susana Ranadi was recognized for her exceptional catwalk skills with the Best Catwalk award, while Nadine Roberts and Manshika Prasad were honored as Fashion Ambassadors, Manishka wearing Australian designer, Amy Taylor. Nadine Roberts also won the Best Evening Gown award, wearing a stunning Minh Tuan Couture gown.
The Miss Universe Fiji 2024 Gala Crowning Event concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, marking a memorable end to a night that celebrated Fiji’s triumphant return to the Miss Universe stage after a 43-year absence.
Miss Universe Fiji 2024 Category Awards:
1. Miss Swimwear – Manshika Prasad
2. Miss Congeniality – Kathleen Mason
3. Best Smile – Salanieta Galo
4. Best Catwalk – Susana Ranadi
5. Miss Fitness – Nicole Matavesi
6. Best Evening Gown – Nadine Roberts
7. Miss Social Media – Nadine Roberts
8. Miss Rising Star – Narishma Sharma
9. Miss Photogenic – Prashantika Prasad
10. Fashion Ambassador x 2 – Nadine Roberts and Manshika Prasad
11. Cultural Ambassador x 2 – Salanieta Galo and Susana Ranadi
12. Ocean Ambassador – Nicole Matavesi
13. Miss Environment – Ashlin Alveena Prasad (received on Ashlin’s behalf by the Judge Jennifer Chan, as Ashlin had to pull out of the contest for personal health reasons)
14. Miss Charity x 2 – Prashantika Prasad and Mumta Nandani
The past three days at The Pearl Resort have been unforgettable for the Miss Universe Fiji 2024 finalists. They’ve participated in fashion photo shoots with renowned photographer Raj Suri, wearing stunning Tracey Ann Farrington swimwear and resort wear. Exclusive dinners and captivating Fijian live performances, including the thrilling Walking on Fire shows, have made this experience truly memorable, all thanks to the hospitality of The Pearl Resort.
About Miss Universe Fiji 2024 Officials, Sponsors, and Partners:
Miss Universe Fiji 2024 Official License Holder:
LUX Projects Fiji – An international property development company building residential and resort properties throughout Asia and the South Pacific.
Official Accommodation and Host Venue Partner:
The Pearl Resort & Spa – A special thanks to General Manager Natalie Marletta for her amazing support.
Partners:
-Charity Partner: seakeepers.org
-Official Photography and Video Production Partner:
-Raj Suri and Karigar Australia
-Official Experience Partners:
-Cloud 9
-Malamala Beach Club
-South Sea Sailing
Official Water Sports Activities Partner:
-Water Sports Central
-Official Fashion Partner:
-Tracey Ann Farrington
-Beverage Sponsors:
-Tappoo and Moët & Chandon
The winner of Miss Universe Fiji will be flown to Mexico City via LA to compete in the Miss Universe International Final – Mid November 24′ and represent the Fijian nation on the global stage.
Photographs and video footage from the Miss Universe Fiji 2024 event will be available through Raj Suri, the official photo/video media director.
WINNERS QUOTES:
“I am a professional singer, commercial dancer, and property manager, I passionately advocate for empowering young girls and women in Fiji. My mission is to inspire the future generation, providing them with a platform to shine and reach their full potential “
– Nadine Roberts, Winner Miss Universe Fiji 2024
“I was born and raised in the beautiful town of Lakena Nausori ( Tailevu Province) I studied at Saraswati Primary Manoca and did my high school at Bhawani Dayal Arya College. My passion is advocating against domestic violence. This cause is deeply personal to me, as I have witnessed the devastating impact it has on individuals and families.I don’t seek this title for the glitz, glamour, or personal gain. Instead, I aim to use the Miss Universe platform to amplify the voices of those silenced by fear and violence. My goal is to raise awareness, inspire change, and help create a society where women feel safe, supported, and empowered”
Manshika Prasad, Co Runner Up Miss Universe Fiji 2024
“I have six years of experience as a fashion model, which has given me a deep understanding of the industry and a passion for style and creativity. Now, I’m focusing on becoming a model agent in Fiji, where I can use my industry knowledge and experience to mentor and guide aspiring models in their careers.”
Empowering women is all about lifting each other up,supporting and breaking barriers.
Let’s remember that when one woman succeeds, we all succeed.
Thank you and Vinaka Vakalevu.”
– Susana Ranadi
Instagram – official_miss_universe_fiji
For queries, contact us on :
Email: events@missuniversefiji.org