Miss National Fire Authority, Rhyelle Aisea won the iTaukei Night Cultural Performance at Hibiscus Festival 2025 with her performance reflecting the cultural and generational legacy carried through traditional attire.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Aisea says the headdress and feather choker symbolized sacred heritage, pride, and chiefly honour, representing the strength and resilience of women.
She also paid tribute to her grandmother, who preserved leaves for a decade to be used in weaving, and to her family, whose collective effort created the corset made of pandanus—symbolizing generations of women’s craftsmanship.
Aisea says her attire embodied identity, strength, and the aspirations of women across generations.
The first-year University of the South Pacific student adds that without the support of her family, friends, and the staff of the National Fire Authority, she would not have made it this far.
Tonight’s event celebrated iTaukei Night, with the Queen contestants dressed in their finest traditional iTaukei attire.
Entertainment also featured performances by the Kaunohoga Dance Group of Rotuma, Namuka-i-Lau, and Cagi ni Delai Yatova.
Tomorrow will be Pasifika Night.
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