The 2024 Digicel Miss Samoa pre-pageant program has officially commenced, with Onomea Productions hosting a grand welcome event for this year's 15 contestants. 

The introduction ceremony took place at the Samoa Tourism Authority (STA) Fale in Apia, marking the beginning of a week of activities leading up to the main pageant week next week. 

Under the theme "Alofa i lau Samoa matalasi", the contestants took the stage to introduce themselves and their sponsors to the public. 

The ceremony began with a sermon by Reverend Uele Uele of the Congregational Christian Church Samoa (C.C.C.S.) in Vaiala. Reverend Uele praised the contestants for their courage and dedication, encouraging them to maintain their faith and keep God at the center of their journey.

Outgoing Miss Samoa, Moemoana Safaatoa Schwenke, delivered a moving keynote address. 

Reflecting on her own experiences, Ms. Schwenke shared insights into the emotional journey the contestants are about to undertake. 

She emphasised that the true reward of the pageant lies not in the crown itself but in the outpouring of love and support from the community. 

Ms. Schwenke applauded the contestants for their bravery in using their platforms to champion issues they are passionate about and highlighted their roles as representatives of their families, villages, and communities.

Nonetheless, she stressed the importance of the Miss Samoa platform as a means of serving Samoa, being the best representation of the country's rich culture and traditions, and addressing pressing issues with grace and fearlessness. 

The pageant provides a vital opportunity for young Samoan women to make a visible impact and shape the future of their nation. A space for the tama'ita'i Samoa to be seen, heard and contribute to the communities. 

The event concluded with the contestants drawing numbers to determine their order of appearance and the topics for their pre-pageant interviews. 

As they embark on this two-week journey, the contestants are poised to showcase their talents, passions, and dedication to their nation, setting the stage for an exciting and inspiring Miss Samoa pageant.