BBQ stall owner, Tucibi Matavesi crowned Friendly North King

By Mansi Chand , Mohammed Feroz

06/09/2025

19-year-old Tucibi Vulimaivulinitu Matavesi has been crowned the 2025 Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North King.

While speaking to fijivillage News after the crowning, Matavesi says he participated in the festival to gain confidence in public speaking.

The Friendly North King dedicated his win to his dad, who runs a BBQ stall, his mum, and his sponsors, Hometown Hardware.

Matavesi, who is originally from Qamea, Taveuni, is currently on a study break and helps his parents with their BBQ business in Labasa.

Meanwhile, Shivyal Chand, sponsored by Shahs Amusement, was the runner-up.

The float procession will begin at 1pm while the Queen crowning will be held tonight at Subrail Park.

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