Ashlin Prasad who represented Fiji in the Queen of International Tourism pageant in the Philippines says securing a place in the top 10, was an incredibly rewarding experience that taught her a great deal about perseverance, grace, and the importance of cultural representation.
She says she is grateful to the organizers for their dedication and for creating an environment that celebrates diversity and empowerment.
Prasad is urging those who want to get into pageantry to embrace every opportunity with courage and to remain authentic.
The 18-year-old says believe in yourself, stay true to your values, and remember that the journey is as important as the destination.
She says the experiences you gain, the people you meet, and the challenges you overcome will shape you into a stronger and more resilient individual.
Prasad has thanked her parents, Asesh Prasad and Aireen Lata, for their love and support of her brother, Ravneel, and his spouse, for being her pillars of strength and encouragement.
She has also acknowledged her mentor Lalen Sharma and his family, her school, Swami Vivekananda College and her director Tito Sania Stowers.
