I come from Rotuma — a small island far from the mainland, small enough that you have to look closely to find it on the map. But that’s what makes it special. From small spaces, sometimes grow the strongest plants.
Too often, we think of ourselves as small because we come from small islands, small villages, or humble homes. But being small doesn’t mean being weak — it means we come from places where roots run deep, where faith, hard work, and love are the foundation of everything we do.
“Too often we think of ourselves as very small people because we come from small islands… But we are forgetting that we are all part of the largest ocean in the world — the Pacific Ocean.”
We may come from small places, but we belong to something vast and powerful. The Pacific is our strength, our identity, and our reminder that small beginnings can hold incredible potential.
When I started this journey, I had prayed for “more opportunities,” not knowing the answer would come as a stage, lights, and a microphone. It was intimidating, but my parents reminded me that when we pray for more, we must also be ready to receive it. So, I said yes.
That yes changed my life. It taught me that courage doesn’t mean you’re never afraid — it means you trust that God will walk with you through every fear.
And through it all, I’ve held onto my faith. As Matthew 17:20 says, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move.” Nothing will be impossible for you.”
Even the smallest faith — just like the smallest island — can grow into something strong enough to move mountains.
To every girl from a small island: your voice matters. Your story matters. You don’t need to come from a big place to make a big impact. You just need to start where you are, with what you have, and believe that your small beginning is still a beginning.
“From small spaces sometimes grow the strongest plants.”
And maybe, one of those strong plants is you.
By Rhyelle Aisea, Miss Hibiscus and Miss Suva 2025
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