Bold claim: Miss Western Highlands has just crowned a new Miss Bird of Paradise PNG, turning PNG’s pageant scene into a blaze of color, culture, and ambition. The night fused traditional heritage with contemporary talent, inviting young women from across the provinces to showcase their hopes and hold the title with pride.
Miss Western Highlands Crowned New Miss Bird of Paradise PNG
Yampela Popena, representing the Western Highlands Province, won the crown and walked away with notable prizes: K20,000 in prize money, a return trip to Israel, a gold necklace and pendant, a bouquet, and automatic qualification to the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant along with other international appearances. She will also participate in cultural events and promotional engagements throughout PNG.
The First Runner-Up went to a contestant from Enga Province, who received K15,000 and a silver jewelry set. East Sepik Province followed as the Second Runner-Up with K10,000. Gulf Province finished in third place with K7,000, while all other contestants earned K1,000 and silver pendants.
Aside from the main crown, Popena captured multiple Major Awards, triumphing in the Pre-Pageant Interview, Miss Traditional, Sarong, and Best Talent categories. Enga Province’s representative earned strong results in the One Minute Intro, Traditionally Inspired Dress, Best Designer, and Stage Interview.
Several contestants from Enga, Morobe, and Western Province shared the Minor Awards, each securing K2,000. Special recognition went to Miss Gulf and Miss Sandaun, who tied for the Entrepreneurship Award. Popena from Western Highlands also earned Best Float and added another K5,000 to her total winnings.
The pageant concluded on a celebratory note, emphasizing perseverance and cultural heritage—a night that honored every PNG woman who steps forward with confidence.
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