Ten Miss Galaxy contestants showcased their spectacular "own creations" in the pageant’s first judging event last night, 12 July, at the Queen Salote Memorial Hall.

The crowd enjoyed a mesmerizing range of creative outfits made out of natural and recycled materials such as plastic, newspapers, serviettes, DVDs, coffee cups and aluminium foil as well as ngatu, sea shells, flowers and plants.

Through all the fun and laughter as each contestant strutted their stuff, they promoted an important message, calling on all Tongans to keep the country clean by recycling material and ensuring rubbish is thrown in bins or taken to the dumpsite.

The annual event, organized by the Tonga Leiti’s Association (TLA), is celebrating its 24^th anniversary this year.

TLA Vice President, Ms Joleen Mataele, said that since 1992, the annual event has supplied 52 scholarships.

“The money we get from the annual Miss Galaxy, we donate every single year for our school drop-outs to go back to school, to all the technical schools, so they can gain knowledge, get a certificate and get a job, or start a business of their own.”

“Some of our scholarship holders have made it overseas - started their own life. They are among the best chefs, hairdressers, you name it, they’re there.”

Miss Galaxy runs over three nights 12-14 July, with the talent category taking place tonight. At the final tomorrow night the contestants will be judged on international wear before the winner is announced.

The Miss Galaxy contestants are:

1. Miss Fafa Island - Miss Lady Egypt Gaga (30)
2. Miss Taufa’ahau Village – Ironicah All (21)
3. Miss Lady Maria Australia – Miss Capri Leonard (29)
4. Miss Tonga Netball – Rihanna Brown (23)
5. Miss Havelu Bulldog Rugby – Kaina Jacob Jackson (24)
6. Miss Manaui Group – Natasha Finau (23)
7. Miss South Pac Builder Supplies – Eva Tanya (26)
8. Miss Tonga Hawaii – Sarabi Avan Jogia (28)
9. Miss Jowella Group – Giovanna Mafi (17)
10. Miss La Quinda Restaurant – Bellarina Aldma Dinah (17)