REIGNING Miss South Pacific Islands, Litara Ieremia Allen, has described her journey in the role as transformative and inspiring.
Reflecting on her experiences and the responsibilities of the title, the Samoan said she was grateful for the opportunities to connect with different communities, particularly during her time in Fiji.
“Being the Pacific Islands Queen has been a beautiful journey,” she shared.
“I am very grateful that it brought me here.”
She highlighted the pageant’s legacy, noting that former titleholders have gone on to excel in fields ranging from media and government to advocacy and activism.
“It goes beyond just one year. It’s a legacy,” she said.
A significant part of her mission, Ieremia-Allan revealed, has been to function as a “peacemaker,” fostering collaboration between Pacific nations.
“I hope I have done a good job at going to different islands and promoting collaboration rather than conflict or distrust,” she said.
“That’s been something very meaningful in my role.”
Addressing the theme of this year’s Miss Fiji pageant—online safety and confident self-expression—she urged young women and girls to focus on what they could control online.
“You can’t control what other people are doing, but you can influence change by making your own choices,” she advised.
Ieremia-Allan uses her own platform to inspire positivity, sharing devotionals and encouraging young people not to dwell on negativity.
“Even if you have five followers, inspiring five people is more meaningful than focusing on five negative things,” she said.
Ieremia-Allen’s advice for girls who look up to her is rooted in self-discovery and faith.
“Every young Pacific Island woman has an innate and individual calling from God,” Ieremia-Allan said.
“It’s not our job to judge someone else’s calling, but to get to know how He made each of us.”
She believes that knowing your cultural background builds confidence and helps women serve others without feeling insecure or judgmental.
As Pacific Queen, Ieremia-Allan encourages her peers to “challenge the norm in graceful and dignified ways.”
She praised contestants who spoke about issues like online bullying and misinformation, showing how these topics relate to their own cultures.
“The great thing about being a Pacific woman is that we are resourceful and innovative,” she said.
“You don’t have to go back; you can add to culture with respect.”
With the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant set to be hosted in Fiji next year, she expressed her excitement.
“The pageant brings an opportunity for outreach, for excellence, creativity, youth innovation, and leadership,” she said.
“It’s a rare opportunity for our region to celebrate what it looks like for our young people to lead change.” She is looking forward to both the public events and to supporting and getting to know the contestants personally.
As her reign continues, Litara Ieremia-Allan remains dedicated to promoting unity, digital safety, and cultural pride throughout the Pacific.
She hopes to inspire the next generation of Pacific women to lead with confidence and purpose.