THE reigning Miss Solomon Islands Camilla Grossmith says her recent journey in the Miss South Pacific Pageant was a very good experience.
Camilla created history by placing Solomon Islands on the second runner up position, moving one place up from the previous country record.
Speaking to the Solomon Star in Nadi last night, she said it was an experience that really opened her eyes to know most of the things she did not see it coming – the one that takes her out from her comfort zone to be part of something big.
“The journey was a very god experience and it has built my confidence in a whole new level.
“Because, I get to mix up with all other Pacific Islanders and it improves my confidence enough to do things I won’t be able to do before.
“Like me, with different islanders has sort of broaden my understanding to know more about the other cultures of the Pacific,” she said.
She added that, this year’s competition is tough because each of the contestants have their own potentials which saw the awards being shared amongst them, unlike in the past years where the winner always put a gap behind the runner ups.
“I am so happy to be where I am in the results standing. With the historic achievement, it is something for the country to be happy about.
“Competing with other queens from the pacific is very tough but it is how I presented myself during the pageant has changed everything,” the Miss Solomon Islands 2016-2017 said.
Camilla falls one point just behind the first runner up and also grabs the Best Talent Category – for singing.
“Winning the Best Talent category is a great achievement for me and I must thank God for giving me such a talent,” she added.
Ms Grossmith said, she is looking forward to promote the country in tourism during her one year of reign; something that she knew most of the pageants from the other Pacific countries did.
Meanwhile, the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant Director Joyce Konofilia wishes to acknowledge everyone back home for their support since the beginning of Camilla’s reign.
“I would like to thank the Platinum Sponsor Coral Sea Resort and Casino, King Solomon Hotel, Camilla’s family, team Miss Solomon Islands, and everyone that has supported Camilla in the pageant competition.
“Camilla has done extremely well and has set a record for the country as well,” the Pageant Director added.
Ms Konofilia said, with the support from the Government and other stakeholders in next year’s Miss Solomon Islands Pageant, she is optimistic that the country will be at the top in the next Miss South Pacific Pageant.
She also thanked the National Fisheries Development (NFD) and its General Manager Frank Wickham for sponsoring a mini-cocktail at the Hexagon International Hotel in Nadi, last night.
The Miss Solomon Islands and her team will be arriving in the country, today.
By RONALD TOITO’ONA
In Nadi, Fiji
