North Malaita student among USP panel for interview with Radio Australia on "Real beauty of women" in the Pacific context

A North Malaita student, Joyce Konofilia-Maetoloa who is currently completing studies in Tourism at the University of the South Pacific in Suva has today been interviewed by Radio Australia along with a four member panel from the university on the topic "Real beauty of Women" in the Pacific context.

The interview on the above theme was facilitated by the Laucala Campus FM radio which is known as "Radio Pasifika" in partnership with Radio Australia.

Mrs Maetoloa was among a panel of three women and one male which comprises two staff members, a Fijian female students and Joyce.

Mrs Maetoloa says her selection was based on her work as former Women's representative at the USP Students Association, and current Tourism students' representative in the USP Department of Tourism.

Joyce adds that the topic of discussion was very important as far as women are concerned especially amidst the pressure of modernisation.

"I was asked about what real beauty means in our society (Solomon Islands) and how we compare ourselves to Fiji especially with the more obvious trend now with Fijian women relaxing their hair as opposed to the traditional Fijian hair."

"My response was that we have the same practice emerging in the Solomon Islands but to a lesser degree. However, as developing countries this changes are inevitable. It's how we deal with them that is important adding that in our culture real beauty is from within, and not really the external features."

"I also stated the fact that every one is unique in their own way and should not copy others to be considered beautiful," said Mrs Maetoloa.