The impact of cyberbullying on the fa'afafine community and the general public will be the main theme for this year's Miss Fa'afafine pageant, says Manu Junior Samuelu, Vice President of the Samoa Fa'afafine Association.

Samuelu said by focusing on inclusivity, equality, and digital advocacy, the event seeks to create awareness and provide a space for positive change.

The Samoa Fa'afafine Pageant has been a cornerstone for showcasing the unique experiences of Fa'afafine individuals in Samoa, as well as in the Pacific region. According to  Samuelu, the pageant has evolved to become a platform for advocacy, with a focus on promoting equality and inclusivity. “The primary goal of this event is to challenge societal perceptions and to promote equality from the perspective of Fa'afafine,” Samuelu said.

Each year, the pageant features seven main categories, including special awards, with contestants competing for the prestigious Fa'afafine crown. This year, however, a new and relevant theme—cyberbullying—has been selected to reflect the increasing harm caused by online hate speech and harassment. 

“We recognise that Fa'afafine are often targeted, but we must remember that they are children of others, just like anyone else,” he remarked.

Cyberbullying, Samuelu noted, impacts not only Fa'afafine but the public at large, particularly through social media and online platforms. To address this issue, the pageant will utilise digital apps to amplify positive messages and educate the public. Contestants will use these tools creatively to spread awareness, counteract negativity, and promote kindness online.

The Samoa Fa'afafine pageant is a key event celebrating the faafafine community, which blends both masculine and feminine identities. Organised by the Samoa Fa'afafine Association, the pageant promotes inclusivity and equality while raising awareness about the issues fa'afafine face.