Photos by Linny Folau

Twenty out of 25 contestants vying for the Miss Heilala 2019 crown, made their first public appearance this afternoon, June 26 at the Fa'onelua Convention Centre in Nuku'alofa.

The contestants, both local and from abroad, were radiant during an orientation program held ahead of judging events, which start on July 1 and end with the crowning of the new Miss Heilala on July 5.

Reigning Miss Heilala, Kalo Funganitao welcomed 20 of the contestants, with the Deputy Prime Minister Hon. Semisi Sika.

Another five contestants are expected to arrive in Tonga later in the week.

The theme of this year's pageant is 'Tonga Masani'.

This thought to be the largest ever number of contestants in the Miss Heilala Pageant.

Contestants at the Orientation were (random order)

Miss Makafeke Resort- Arden Fatai

Miss ‘Alovili Home Australia- Melefifita Percilla ‘Alovili

Miss Salone Accounting Services- Manutu’ufanga Lavemai

Miss Langakali ‘o e Vai ko Puna 2019- Peti Na’a Iotamo

Miss Terra Pacific Australia- Nunia ‘Akanete Petelo

Miss Tonga Australia 2019- Anna Ma’ilei

Miss Apraxus Radio Waves of the Pacific- Tangi ‘a Tonga Latu

Miss Apraxus/Ngutulei Bar and Restaurant- Kieoma Lavulo

Miss Apraxus/Nasita Production- Lolohea Lomekina

Miss Tuitui Fashion 2019 - Soana Aleva

Miss Fe’unu Koula- Fe’ofa’aki Laula

Miss Tyer Runner Express Australia- Finalolani Chanelle Liu

Miss Bou Sports- Lesieli Tonga Kafa

Miss ‘Eua Tourism- ‘Emeline Napa’a

Miss Tonga Tourism- Denise Hafoka

Miss Infrastructure- ‘Otile ‘Ikani

Miss S&S Trading USA- Yehenara Soukop

Miss Vava’u Tourism- ‘Asinate Tupou

Miss Ha’apai Tourism- Mele Malafu

Miss Cruise Ships- Sia Tu’ipulotu

Others to come

Miss Lady Maria Tonga Australia 2019- Theresa Mafile’o

Miss Apraxus/LJ Hooker Real Estate- Catherine Hansen

Miss Bou Fashion- Kilisitina Veilofia

Miss Makahokovalu- Seletute Kinikini

Miss Apraxus NZ 2019- Jeanavieve Pome’e