Photos by Linny Folau and Katalina Siasau.

A Talent Quest, the fourth Miss Heilala judging event held on 4 July, at Sir Sofele Kakala Hall, Ma’ufanga, was received by an appreciative crowd.

Contestants got the crowd on their feet and raised loud cheers toward the end of the night with their outstanding talent performances.

The top 5 contestants for the Talent Quest were announced, in no particular order:

• Contestant #3 Miss Tonga Australia, Monica Vave
• Contestant #8 Miss Brilliant Star Silapeluua, Lata ‘I Tu’a Tau Naeata
• Contestant #9 Miss Malo e Lelei Travel, Loketi Serenity Mahoni
• Contestant #10 Miss ‘Eua Masani, Sitita Hamilton Va’enuku
• Contestant #12 Miss Ha’apai Masani, Mele Afenga-he-lotu Sika

This category was judged based on the appropriateness of the costume, originality, natural ability in performance, quality of presentation, entertainment and ability to attract audience.

The panel of judges for this category were Aniva Nickel, Diamond Langi, Finau Afeaki, Josie Nicholas, and Mishka Tuifua.