Nicolina June Ah-Kuoi was formally crowned as Samoa's beauty contender for the Miss Global Beauty 2024 at a remarkable event held at Taumeasina Island Resort on Tuesday.

The crowning ceremony was attended by Acting Prime Minister Tuala Tevaga Ponifasio, Vodafone Samoa, judges, and distinguished guests, as well as family and friends.

In his keynote address, Tuala expressed the government's wishes and congratulated Ms. Ah Kuoi the best with all of her preparations.

“The Miss Global is an extravagant and prestigious global competition that empowers women for leadership and serves as an ambassador for cultural diversity,” he said.

“With its vision to empower women, embrace cultures and embodied the beauty within. The Miss Global organisation celebrated its 10th-anniversary last year, marking a decade of essence and aspirations.

He went on to speak of the huge impact that Samoa made last year in its debut on the international stage and how it made history after Haylani Pearl Kurupu was named the first runner-up among 70 competitors.

“This remarkable achievement is a testament that Samoan women can reach extraordinary heights when given the right opportunity and support.

He then acknowledged Vodafone Samoa for again being the major sponsor for the initiative and helping further promote Samoa to the world of international pageantry.

“Vodafone Samoa has been instrumental in this endeavour taking Samoa to the world of international pageantry by providing such once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and initiate world-class training for the Samoan contestant making it a life-changing experience for each participant.

This year is no different, as Vodafone Samoa is once again pleased to support Miss Global 2024 for another round.

Miss Ah Kuoi will be travelling to the Philippines in September to undergo training to ensure she is fully prepared to shine on the global stage.

“International beauty pageants can be powerful tools for tourism promotion, leveraging their global reach to attract visitors and to promote tourism and Samoa will significantly benefit from this exposure.

“This miss global pageant attracts millions of viewers and followers from various countries, providing an excellent platform and introduces Samoas unique attraction and tourist destination to a diverse audience in over 80 countries.

“With 1.3 million worldwide following, the miss global organisation and the potential for promoting our beautiful Samoa is immense.

“Samoan government is committed to empowering women, promoting gender balance and gender equality and eliminating all forms of violence against women.

“Our new Miss Global will carry forward a legacy of empowerment and service and will be an ambassador of goodwill, touching lives and creating positive changes right across the globe," said Tuala.

“This title is not crowned on a responsibility, but a commitment to embodying the values of kindness, empathy and leadership.

“We are crowning a woman who embodies grace, intelligence, and compassion. She also possesses a combination of physical attractiveness, confidence and several qualities that make her desirable to others on the international stage. 

“As you step into this role, know that you carry the dreams and inspirations of countless young women, especially young Samoan. 

“Use your Samoaness and who you are, qualities and values of being a Samoan tamaitai. Use it and use it best."

Miss Ah Kuoi expressed her gratitude and humility for the opportunity to serve her people and community, adding that she is thrilled to have this wonderful chance to represent her beautiful country of Samoa on a global platform.

Nicolina June Ah Kuoi with her family at the crowning ceremony. 

“This kind of opportunity doesn’t come often but I felt like God's timing is always perfect and looking forward to what is to come," she said.

“I know it is not going to be easy but I will just let God be the guide and I pray for his provision through my journey. 

“It won’t be impossible as well because I have a whole village behind me and God at the forefront always."

Nicolina hails from Sapapalii, Safotu, Leulumoega, Tulaele, Pata Falelatai and Nuuuli American Samoa.