Fiji-born beauty wins Miss Samoa

SAMOA – Priscilla Paleagaese Olano is Miss Samoa 2016-2017. The 25-year-old from Lauli’i – with Indian, Rotuman and Native American blood – was crowned at Tuana’imato on Friday night by former Miss Samoa, Ariana Taufao.

She collected the ultimate prize having also won the Best Talent, Best Interview, Miss Photogenic and Miss National Tourism Award by the end of the pageant.

Born in Fiji, Olano said she entered the pageant with the aim to empower and lead young people to the Lord.

Through tears of joy, she immediately credited God for her success.

“It was God, who brought me here, and he helped me through it,” she said, “I dedicate this crown to Him.”

Olano said the win took her by surprise.

“I entered the pageant to inspire the youth of Samoa and I gave it my best,” she said. “I didn’t expect to win, but I am grateful to God and to everyone who supported me and helped me to get to where I am now.”

Priscilla is the eldest daughter of Paratiso and Maria Olano’s seven children.

She works at SPREP’s Climate Change division as the Technical Assistant for the Pacific Climate Change Portal (PCCP).

Her hobbies include playing guitar, capoeira and reading.

The first runner up in the pageant was Miss Samoa Australia, Miriama Meafou.

The second runner up was local girl Flora Dinan Vaiaoga.

The third was Miss Samoa New Zealand, Naomi Fruean.

The fourth runner up was Miss Samoa New South Wales, Tayla Scanlan. - SA