Contestants Reminded of Public Scrutiny
Their ability to change the lives of underprivileged children by empowering them with the opportunity to further their education is the reason they are called agents of change.
The seven queen contestants for the Lautoka Farmers Carnival were reminded that the way they conducted themselves at various social engagements and the way they speak would be scrutinised by the public.
While officially opening the festival at Churchill Park in Lautoka on Saturday night, Divisional Police Commander West Senior Superintendent of Police Verani Nakauyaca said public scrutiny was something the contestants were expected to encounter.
“At times scrutiny can be harsh, but don’t let any negativity hold you back because it takes a lot of courage to face the public and we salute you for that,” he said. “Know that everything you do will be seen and even emulated by others, which is why we have labelled you agents of change because you have the power to influence others.”
SSP Nakauyaca acknowledged the carnival committee members, saying their ability to change the lives of underprivileged children by empowering them with the opportunity to further their education was the reason they were called agents of change.
“The carnival has always provided a platform for festivities here in the Western Division, being the first festival in the division every year, and you have always raised the bar.
“Many of the children assisted from proceeds of this carnival owe their life to everyone associated with this event, some have become carpenters, school teachers, nurses and one, I am proud to say, became a police officer and is now serving right here in the sugar city of Lautoka,” he said.