Fiji’s Ailava Samuels crowned Miss Pacific Islands 2026 in historic emotional Nadi finale

There were cheers, tears, and a sense of relief in Nadi on Saturday night as Ailava Samuels was crowned Miss Pacific Islands 2026.

In a powerful moment for Fiji and the wider region, Samuels took the crown at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant, ending a six-year wait for a Fijian winner.

The sash and crown were handed to her by outgoing titleholder, Litara Ieremia-Allan from Sāmoa, in front of a packed crowd.

It was a result that carried extra weight.

Samuels, 19, stepped onto the regional stage under intense scrutiny after the original Miss Fiji winner, Dr Peggy Ravusiro, was barred from representing the country.

The Miss Fiji Pageant then selected Samuels, who had finished runner-up, to compete instead - a decision that sparked debate and strong public reaction in the lead-up to the regional event.

Outgoing titleholder Litara Ieremia-Allan hands over the crown to Fiji’s Ailava Samuels in an emotional ceremony at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant. Photo/Facebook

On Saturday night, she answered that pressure in the brightest way possible.

When her name was announced, the room erupted. Draped in the Fijian flag and visibly emotional, Samuels embraced her fellow contestants before taking her first walk as Miss Pacific Islands 2026.

Her victory marks Fiji’s first win in six competitions and was met with loud support from the home crowd in Nadi.

Contestants from across the Pacific stood united on stage in Nadi with Miss Pacific Islands 2025 Litara Ieremia-Allan (fifth from left), celebrating culture, identity, and sisterhood at the 2026 Miss Pacific Islands Pageant. Photo/Miss Pacific Islands

Strong regional field

The 2026 contest showcased culture, talent, and Pacific pride from across the islands.

Miss Papua New Guinea, Iampela Popena, was named first runner-up. Miss Sāmoa, Iliganoa Feagaimali’i Soti, took second runner-up. Miss Tonga, Siosi’ana Patricia Taumoepeau, was third runner-up, while Miss Cook Islands, Petra Mataiti, finished fourth runner-up.

Beyond the main title, several special awards were presented by Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister, Viliame Gavoka.

Taumoepeau received the Miss Tourism 2026 title and won Best Sarong 2026. Popena was awarded Miss Internet 2026 and Best Traditionally Inspired Attire 2026. Mataiti took home Miss Photogenic 2026 and Best Talent 2026.

Miss Kiribati, Atiterentaai Rinimarawa, was named Miss Personality 2026.

Samuels herself had earlier been awarded Best Interview 2026 - a sign of the calm and clarity she brought to the stage despite the noise surrounding her selection.

Watch the Miss Pacific Islands 2026 crowning ceremony in Nadi on Saturday below.

A Pacific moment

The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant is more than a beauty contest.

For many across the region, it is a celebration of identity, language, culture, and service.

Contestants speak not only about personal goals, but about climate change, youth development, health, and the future of Pacific communities.

Samuels’ journey to the crown will be remembered as one of resilience. Thrust into the spotlight amid controversy, she carried the expectations of a nation and emerged with the region’s top honour.

For Fiji, it is a moment of pride. For the Pacific, it is another reminder of the strength and grace of its young women.

On Saturday night in Nadi, the crown has come home.

Photo/Miss Pacific Islands