In an inspiring showcase of intelligence and advocacy, the 15 remarkable contestants competing for the Miss Samoa title captivated the judges with their insightful presentations during the pre-pageant interviews.

Held at the Taumeasina Island Resort on Thursday, this year's interviews provided a platform for the contestants to address diverse pressing global and local issues, demonstrating their depth of understanding and commitment to societal change.

The contestants tackled topics that ranged widely, reflecting the complex challenges and opportunities facing both Samoa and the world. 

Among the subjects discussed were community health, leadership development, technological advancement, and the growth of the digital landscape. 

They also delved into themes such as diaspora and development, climate resilience, and disability inclusion. 

Equity for social development, sustainable tourism, governance, peace, and security were also on the agenda, alongside youth creativity, innovations, and knowledge management.

One of the standout moments of the interviews was the heartfelt discussions on "alofa i la'u Samoa matalasi"—a term reflecting deep affection and respect for Samoan culture—and the role of women in sports. 

The contestants also shared their perspectives on the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (C.H.O.G.M.), labour mobility, and economic growth, highlighting their awareness of local and global contexts.

The judges were visibly moved by the contestants' powerful presentations. 

Many contestants drew from their personal experiences, sharing compelling stories that underscored the issues they addressed. 

This emotional depth and authenticity made it challenging for some judges to maintain their composure as they engaged with the contestants during the Q&A sessions. 

Laughter and moments of levity also punctuated the event, as some contestants used humour to navigate the questions posed.

Teuila Emmy Alofipo, Miss Liahona Consultancy praised the organisers for incorporating such a significant category into the beauty contest. 

She highlighted that this component of the pageant allows contestants to voice their perspectives on crucial issues affecting women and communities both in Samoa and globally. 

Alofipo emphasised that while beauty pageants are often perceived as focusing solely on physical appearance, they also offer a valuable opportunity for participants to articulate their views on matters impacting today's youth.

The pre-pageant interview segment is a critical component of the overall competition, with contestants being judged on their overall presentation and ability to engage with complex topics. The results of this category, along with the outcomes of all other competition segments, will be revealed on Saturday.