Photos by Linny Folau

Miriam Ngaue (21) a student of Ma'ufanga was crowned Miss Valentine 2008 last night, winning a cash prize of $1,000 pa'anga and all expenses paid trip to compete in the Miss Tourism Queen International in China next month.

The Miss Valentine show spectacular made its debut in style at the International Dateline Hotel with special decorations, lighting and performances by popular local artists like Lepolo Pole'o.

The four contestants appeared in four categories the Best Traditional Wear, the Best Sarong Wear, the Best Evening Wear and the Interview.

The Guest of Honor HRH Princess Latufuipeka Tuku'aho crowned the winner at the conclusion of the colourful and fun event.

Miriam's prizes also include one week of training in catwalk and presentation in New Zealand before leaving for the Miss Tourism Tourism Queen International, March 20 - April 12 at the Zhengzhou City, Henan Province in China.

The first runner-up was Seini Tu'ihalangingie (19) of Kolomotu'a who took home a cash prize of $700, followed by second runner up Maria Kata (19) of Ma'ufanga with a $500, cash prize and Luse Nonu (18) of Patangata with $200.

Accountancy

Miriam who aspires to become an accountant in the future is currently taking courses at the Tonga Community Development Training Centre.

She said she is very happy and is looking forward to representing Tonga as a tourism ambassador, and she sees this as a great opportunity that will open up many doors for her.

Monalisa Palu, the Director of Professional PR, the organiser of the pageant, said the Miss Tourism Queen International, which aims at enhancing tourism development, friendship and international culture exchange, is a huge pageant that attracts entrants from over 80 countries.