The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant is a platform that enables young women who represent the countries in the region to talk about issues that affect our families, societies and nations.

This was highlighted by President Jioji Konrote while speaking at the official opening of the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant at Prince Charles Park last night.

Konrote stressed regardless of the challenges and differences we are united as a Pacific Family and a collaboration is critical for all in the Pacific especially at this pivotal and most challenging time in the Pacific’s history when we have to deal with many modern day challenges such as climate change, money laundering, people smuggling, trans national crime, refugee migration, illegal fishing and many others.

He says these issues also need to be discussed within our households adding that the more aware and educated we are about these issues the more likely we are able to find opportunities to collaborate and explore solutions.

Nine contestants are vying for the crown this year with Fiji represented by Hally Qaqa who won the Miss Fiji Pageant last month.

The contestants sarong judging was held last night and the winner will be announced on Saturday.

The talent judging will be held at 7 tonight.

The 2017 Miss Pacific Islands will be crowned at 7.30pm Saturday.

The reigning Miss Pacific Islands is Fiji’s Anne Dunn.