Naituku, 26, Grabs 2018 Adi Senikau

Twenty-six-year-old Miss Nicole Naituku won the Adi Senikau title on Friday night. Twelve contestants of the pageant were vying for the Bank of Baroda sponsored Adi Senikau title during the pageant at the Bank of Baroda tent at the Valelevu Ground. The pageant drew a crowd of more than 300 people.

Apart from taking the pageant title, Ms Naituku of Kuku in Bau, Tailevu also won the best talent award.

The best creative wear and first runner-up award was scooped by Melanie Jenner while the second runner-up award was scooped by Ms Taylor Brandy.

Ms Naituku said her win came as a surprise because she did not expect to be crowned the Bank of Baroda Miss Adi Senikau.

She said her performances and creative wear ideas were planned at the last minute because she was not able to prepare well beforehand.

“I cannot believe that I won. It took a lot of challenges and hard work and it paid off for me,” Ms Naituku said.

“I am so thankful for the team that I have. Whatever I did today was last minute.

“I am thankful for all the families and friends I have for supporting me and their words of encouragement.”

She said winning the crown was the cherry on top of her achievement. “This pageant has been one of the most beautiful experiences for me, especially the bonding with the sisters.

“We are all queens, but only one can take the crown,” Miss Naituku said.