MEREWALESI NAILATIKAU is the Fiji National Provident Fund’s entrant to the Hibiscus Festival Queen’s pageant.

Fund Chief Executive Officer Mr Aisake Taito said the FNPF was proud to have Ms Nailatikau as its contestant.

He said the Fund’s participation is an indication of its commitment to its corporate social responsibility.

“The Board, Management and staff have all shown tremendous support towards this initiative and even though we are one of the last to enter a candidate, we have begun our fundraising drives with much enthusiasm,” Mr Taito added.

“The Fund stands to confirm its resolve in giving back to those in Fiji who are less fortunate.”

Ms Nailatikau, 24, holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology & Management from the University of the South Pacific and also undertook undergraduate psychology studies for two years at Saint Louis University in Madrid, Spain.

Originally from Rakiraki, Yale in Kadavu, she received her secondary education at International School where she was Head Girl, Yat Sen Secondary and Natabua High School.

Ms Nailatikau is an accomplished young woman, having held several representative positions including being the Pacific Youth Representative for ‘Inspia!’ Environmental Group at the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, South Africa and at their cleanup campaign at Bellingshausen Beach, in Antarctica.

She lists her hobbies as watching movies, meeting new people and travelling. She describes herself as a self-motivated humble person with an enjoyment for learning.

The Fund last sponsored a contestant in 2006 and won the title, Miss Charity.