The Hibiscus Events Group has denied a young woman was discriminated against during auditions for the 2014 Hibiscus Queens category.
Hibiscus Chair Hirdesh Prasad says the question about her background was asked – but it wasn’t part of her formal interview.
Naomi Bukalidi claimed she was asked how she was going to raise money for Hibiscus since she lives in a squatter settlement.
Hirdesh Prasad admits he was the one who asked the question – but this was a private conversation after Bukalidi’s audition was over.
Bukalidi alleged to FBC News, she was asked the question by the interview panel – she was offended by it.
Prasad says this isn’t what happened.
“After the interview process I had asked her that you have mentioned that you were raised in a squatter settlement I would like to ask you something. There are some sponsors we have that require our contestants to raise funds; now if you were given the opportunity to raise funds what are some of the networks you will be using and how will you raise these funds.”
He has no regrets asking Bukalidi about her background…Prasad says he was genuinely interested in her story
“I think she must have taken it the wrong way and like I said if she had any concern she should have come and asked us and raising that issue after two weeks is also; I’m getting feedback from people like what else can you do; what else can she do.”
The Hibiscus chair confirms Bukalidi’s non-selection was not a result of their conversation. So far as HEGI is concerned, this matter has been laid to rest.
