Leading the panel as Chief Judge is prominent lawyer Jon Apted, a partner at Munro Leys who has practised law for 40 years.
Apted also has extensive experience in fashion, entertainment and the arts.
He is a former prize-winning fashion designer and photographer and previously hosted IQ Active.
He has also served as a judge on music competitions, including Vodafone MIC and Vocal Battle.
Joining Apted on the panel is Permanent Secretary for Justice, Selina Kuruleca.
Kuruleca is also Chairperson of Fiji’s National Anti-Money Laundering Council.
The panel also includes Pacific climate leader and narrative strategist Fenton Lutunatabua, who brings more than 20 years of experience in climate action, movement building, communications and global partnerships.
Lutunatabua is the founder of Pacific Climate Warriors and leader of Beyond the Narrative.
He has worked with governments, international institutions, media and civil society and is also a filmmaker, podcaster and TED speaker.
Vineeta Nand, a Rotarian and Past District Governor of Rotary International District 9920, is also part of the judging panel.
Nand has a diverse professional background spanning banking, aviation, government and communications, including senior political and communications roles at the British High Commission in Suva.
She brings experience in leadership, public affairs, stakeholder engagement, media relations and event management.
Completing the panel is Miss Hibiscus 1975 Michele Smith, who brings a direct connection to the festival's history.
Smith was the last Miss Hibiscus to wear the traditional crown before the introduction of the modern tiara.
Her international career has included management and marketing consultancy, public relations, event marketing and destination marketing.
The five judges bring together a wide range of experience in leadership, creativity, communication, cultural awareness and community service.
Their expertise will be used to assess contestants not only on stage presence and presentation, but also on their intellect, communication skills, character, cultural understanding and ability to represent the values of the FMF Hibiscus Festival.
The Hibiscus Festival will begin this Saturday at Albert Park and conclude next Saturday.
