BY INDY MAEALASIA
As the countdown begins to the highly anticipated Miss Solomon Islands Pageant (MSIP) next month, one young woman is not only embracing the glamour and dazzle on stage but also seizing the opportunity to advocate for tourism and education.
Meet 25 year-old Kerrie Faradatolo from Malaita Province, a contestant of the 2024 MSIP and inspired to be raising her voice for a good cause.
“Growing up, I’ve always seen pageants happen. I saw it as a great platform for women and girls to advocate for particular issues that are affecting them directly or that are affecting people and society” Kerrie shared.
So when the opportunity came up, she did not let it slip “When I saw the ad on the last week before the closing of application, I had a chat with my coworkers and then I put in an application on the very last day and got in” Kerrie said.
Describing herself as “reserved”, Kerrie’s acceptance surprised her family but garnered support. “They are supportive and I’ve got a good team in the background cheering me on so I am excited for the journey” she said.
Entering the pageant as Miss Tourism, she has set an ambitious goal, to promote the country’s tourism sector.
“We have a very vibrant tourism destination here but we need the support, we need the exposure. We need people to see how beautiful the Islands are and what we can offer and share with them” Kerrie emphasized.
Beyond her advocacy for tourism, she is equipped with a Bachelor of Laws, Professional Diploma in Legal Practice, and a Professional Diploma in Legislative Drafting from the University of the South Pacific(USP). Kerrie is also passionate about advocating for the introduction of legal education into the current education system.
“Teach them young, set them on the straight road, get them to have an understanding and knowledge that there are laws we have in society, and it is backed by teaching from home” she emphasized.
“It goes hand in hand, home teaching, education and respect of the law” she added.
The road to the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant (MSIP) is undeniably intense, with all six contestants engaged in meticulous planning, and relentless preparation.
For Kerrie, who works as a senior legislative drafting counsel at the Attorney-General’s Chambers, striking a balance is key.
“I’m currently working so I have to find time to balance the priorities at work first, home and also the pageant events” she said.
But she remained optimistic “But I have a supportive team both at work, home and with my sponsors so we are pushing forward and we are going strong, I would say”
With only a month left to the grand event, in which the best will be selected to represent Solomon Islands in the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant to be held in Honiara on February 2024, Kerrie wants to be an inspiration to other younger women.
“Maintain your confidence, maintain your composure and go with a goal in mind. It is not about the pretty dresses or the makeup. It’s about achieving something and making something better for everyone” Kerrie added.
