Meet the Designer Behind Ezinma’s Eagle Costume
BY CHRIS ALEX
WHEN Miss Guadalcanal, Erinma Keni Kausua, took to the Miss Solomon Islands Pageant 2024 stage on 25 August at the Pacific Crown Hotel, many people were wondering who managed to put together the eagle costume, and it was none other than Elizabeth Sally Lovi, a fashion designer and native from Guadalcanal province.
Elizabeth, the owner of Elizabeth Design, is a single mother, fashion designer, and entrepreneur who makes a variety of garment designs and other tailoring services for children, men, and women.
She emerged as a beacon of cultural pride and creativity with her stunning traditional attire for Ezinma Kausua, Miss Guadalcanal. Her contemporary design played a key role in bringing to life the story of Guadalcanal’s ancestral guardian, the great eagle, through her beautiful traditional attire for Miss Guadalcanal in the Miss Solomon Islands competition.
The journey began with a vision from Miss Guadalcanal herself. Ezinma Kausua wanted an outfit that would honor the deep-rooted history of her people, and Sally Lovi seized the opportunity to blend her design expertise with her passion for Guadalcanal’s traditions.
“This project was a dream come true,” Lovi shared, reflecting on the chance to infuse contemporary fashion with the essence of her island’s history. Her design was driven by the great tabu-eagle, a symbol of strength and protection for Guadalcanal.
The costume was a masterpiece of intricate craftsmanship. Incorporating bird features and pandanus leaves—a traditional material used in making mats and umbrellas—the attire reflects Lovi’s dedication to blending modern fashion with traditional cultural elements.
“The great eagle is a sentinel over Guadalcanal,” Lovi explained. “It symbolizes the strength and protection of our ancestors and watches over our land and seas.” The eagle, featured prominently on the Guadalcanal provincial flag, is believed to watch from Mount Vatupochau, a site sacred to the island’s ancient settlers.
Lovi’s careful attention to detail in the costume ensured that the cultural significance of the eagle was preserved while making it resonate with today’s audiences. Her work was a labor of love, embodying the spirit of Guadalcanal’s heritage.
Julia Mara, a collaborator on the project, praised Lovi’s contribution. “Sally’s design has beautifully showcased our culture. I’m incredibly proud of how Ezinma has brought our history to life,” Mara said.
The costume’s debut at the Miss Solomon Islands competition was a highlight, with Ezinma Kausua symbolizing the great eagle’s spirit and offering a glimpse into Guadalcanal’s ancient story. For Sally Lovi, witnessing Kausua’s performance was an emotional and proud moment.
“To see Ezinma bring the eagle’s story to life on stage was incredible,” Lovi said. “It’s an honor to contribute to the preservation and celebration of our heritage.”
