Miss Kiribati grounded in her culture  

Miss Kiribati Atiterentaai Rinimarawa connects to her Kiribati heritage through dancing, singing and weaving.

Source: Miss Pacific Islands Pageant

At 23 years old, Atiterentaai Rinimarawa is honoured to represent Kiribati in this weekend’s 2026 Miss Pacific Islands Pageant.

A recent graduate from the University of the South Pacific with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and Tourism Management, Atiterentaai is now preparing for the next steps in her journey of service to her community.

Born and raised on Kiritimati (Christmas Island) in a close-knit family, Atiterentaai has understood the values of love, kindness, patience, and humility from an early age.

As the youngest in her family, she developed a gift for observation and listening, shaping her into a compassionate leader who serves with purpose.

Living on a low-lying island nation has given Atiterentaai firsthand experience of the climate crisis impacting the Pacific and the world.

Witnessing rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and changing weather patterns has fuelled her passion for climate change advocacy.

She is committed to raising awareness and advocating for the protection of Pacific environments and ways of life.

In her free time, Atiterentaai enjoys dancing, singing, and weaving – cultural practices that connect her to her heritage.

Atiterentaai’s dream is to build a meaningful career in community development, youth empowerment, and environmental sustainability.

As Miss Kiribati, Atiterentaai hopes to inspire others to take small steps toward a brighter, kinder, and more resilient future.

The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant 2026, hosted in Nadi from February 13-14, celebrates cultural heritage, traditional knowledge and leadership among young Pacific women.

Check with Pasifika TV and your local broadcasters for coverage of the 2026 Miss Pacific Islands Pageant.