Ailava Samuels being crowned on Saturday night. 14 February 2026 Photo: Facebook / Miss Pacific Islands
Ailava Samuels of Fiji is the new Miss Pacific Islands.
Samuels won the beauty pageant on home soil during the crowning night in Nadi on Saturday, marking Fiji's first win since 2016.
The 19-year-old also received the Best Interview award.
Samuels win "was not an easy feat", The Fiji Times reported on Monday, adding that "who many of us know faced cyberbullying in the lead-up" to the event.
"And despite being written off by some critics, the young contestant graced the week-long regional pageant with humility, strength and respect for her Pacific sisters," the newspaper said.
Samuels said her journey "was not and easy one and has not been an enjoyable one".
"But I must say I'm grateful for all the support I have had from all my family, friends and beautiful sash sisters and their teams."
In a winner's speech, Samuels said winning the crown was not a reward, but a responsibility. She promised o continue her advocacy on online.
"My mission is that when I pass the crown to the next queen I leave a legacy behind where I have created as many safe spaces for each and every Pacific Islander out there."
The 19-year-old also received the Best Interview award. Photo: Facebook / Miss Pacific Islands
The runners-up included Papua New Guinea's Iampela Popena was (1st), Samoa's Feagaimaali'i Soti Mapu (2nd), Tonga's Siosi'ana Patricia Taumoepeau (3rd), and Cook Islands Petra Mataiti (4th).
Other special awards were presented to Miss Tonga (Miss Tourism & Best Sarong), Miss Papua New Guinea (Miss Internet & Best Traditional Wear, Miss Cook Islands (Miss Photogenic & Best Talent), and Miss Kiribati Atiterentaai Rinimarawa (Miss Personality).
