Kariha keen to hand crown to Miss Pacific successor

MISS Pacific Leoshina Kariha is looking forward to handing over her crown in Port Moresby during the Miss Pacific Islands pageant this month.
Kariha attended the crowning of Gladys Habu as Miss Solomon Islands in Honiara last Saturday.
Habu, 24, is the granddaughter of the late Sir Dennis Young of Milne Bay, a former speaker of the PNG Parliament.
Her father is from Santa Isabel in Solomon Islands.
She graduated in Pharmacology (with Honours) from Monash University in Melbourne, Australia.
She is a climate change action champion.
“Our country’s industry contributes very little to the acceleration of global warming and, in turn, sea levels rise and climate change,” Habu said.
“Yet, we are the ones facing its negative impacts on the frontline. We have learnt to adapt and fight but we can’t do it on our own.
“I believe as people of planet earth and climate change action fighters, we can do more to slow down this harmful process.
“We need global support. Let us stand together and protect what we have left of our heritage.”
Habu will arrive in Port Moresby later this month.
Her concern for sinking islands was featured this year in a British television documentary in London.
Her island’s story was also featured on 60 Minutes on Australia’s Channel Nine with journalist Liam Bartlett in support of research done by Queensland University’s Dr Simon Albert.
“It was very emotional for me, having to dig up old childhood memories of our lovely Kale Island,” she said.
“However I am humbled to have had the privilege to share on such a platform.”
During the Miss Solomon Islands pageant, Habu strongly advocated for action against climate change and the prevention of cancers affecting women.
Kariha will host Habu and new beauty queens from the Pacific in Port Moresby.
“I and many throughout the region have been following each woman’s advocacy messages and we are astounded by the women’s boldness in lending their voices for the important causes they each stand for.
“I hope that they will continue the valuable work they have started on this platform, in their own communities.”
A new Miss Pacific will be crowned.