By Tupou Vaipulu Jr.

At their Orientation gathering today, seven contestants for the Miss Heilala crown 2025 drew their order of appearance and pre-pageant interview topics at the Ministry of Tourism’s HQ in Nuku’alofa, and posed for their first group photograph.

The reigning Miss Heilala, Rachel Guttenbeil welcomed the contestants with a few words of encouragement, highlighting her personal struggles throughout the pageant and how she overcame them.

Rachel said that one of the challenges she faced during her reign was being scrutinized by people on social media. She told the contestants that they will face similar challenges but it’s important to ignore what people say and focus on their goals. 

“You will be scrutinized by the public but pay no mind to what they say. Since I began my journey as a contestant vying for the Miss Heilala 2024 crown and up to date, I still face these challenges,” she said.

“Your worth is not measured by the amount of likes, shares and comments.

“Just be yourself, know your goal and follow it, don’t be afraid to make mistakes, dare to challenge yourself and exceed your limits and believe that you can and be confident and have the courage to try.”

This year’s pageant theme is ‘Celebrating Our Heritage, Shaping Our Future’.

Contestants and topics

1. Miss Lady Maria Australia, Ana-Li Pisa Li – Technology
2. Miss Pangaimotu Island, Siosi’ana Taumoepeau – Tourism
3. Miss Tongatapu 2, Fugaau Elizabeth Amanaki Mafi – Mental Health
4. Miss Ha’apai Masani, Ati Liliani ‘Olie – Climate Change
5. Miss S&S USA, Sinivia Tu’avao – Labour Shortage in the Pacific Countries Due to Seasonal Employment Schemes
6. Miss Current of Love Charity Vava’u, Talita Fainga’a – Sports
7. Miss Tika Way Creations, Malia Toatepi Tonga’uiha – Culture

The contestants will be judged in the first judging event, the Pre-pageant Interview next week on Tuesday, 1 July.