Miss Hagen Central crowned first Miss Western Highlands

Some of the bilum design handiwork of Delco's Artwork was worn by the four finalists of Miss Bird of Paradise Western Highlands. Far right is Miss Hagen Central, Iampela Popena (Image: Supplied)

An 18-year-old economics student has made history as the first Miss Western Highlands, marking a milestone moment in a pageant that blends faith, culture and women’s empowerment.

Miss Hagen Central, Iampela Popena, a second-year student at the University of Papua New Guinea, was crowned Miss Bird of Paradise – Western Highlands 2025 after emerging the winner from a strong field of more than 50 contestants.

Popena, proudly sponsored by United Finance, stood out for her confidence, intelligence, and cultural pride throughout the week-long event that culminated in the crowning night on November 8 in Mt Hagen.

The other three finalists were:

Miss Mul Baiyer – Deshar Raima, 24, of PNG Motors, a Diploma in Business Management holder.

Miss Tambul Nebilyer – Stacey Rawuth, 21, final-year Engineering and Mineral Processing student at UNITECH.

Miss Dei – Theresianthea Bengi, 22, third-year Communication Arts student at DWU.

A prayerful beginning set the tone for this year’s Miss Bird of Paradise – Western Highlands Pageant, where faith, culture and women’s empowerment took centre stage.

The week-long event opened with a dedication service on November 2, led by ELCPNG Hagen District Head Reverend Ten Tengdui, who urged the finalists to follow the example of Queen Esther, a woman of courage and devotion.

“There were many beautiful women who came before the King, but Esther’s devotion to God made her stand out,” Rev. Tengdui said. “Always put God first, respect your parents, and let your character shine.”

For Pageant Chairlady Delilah Goni, beginning the event in prayer was a must. “In everything we do, God must come first,” she said. “This Pageant is about values, confidence, and empowering young women to serve with humility and faith.”

Throughout the competition, contestants showcased traditional wear and elegant evening gowns all designed by Delco’s Artwork, which also contributed K10,000 worth of locally made designs.

Ms Goni said fashion was being used as a platform for empowerment. “Through fashion and art, I’ve helped create opportunities for women and youth,” she said. “This Pageant celebrates culture, creativity, and the strength of Western Highlands women.”

The Western Highlands Provincial Government threw its full support behind the event, with Governor Wai Rapa presenting a K100,000 cheque as Diamond Sponsor.

“The Pageant strengthens and gives voice to women by nurturing confidence, leadership, and the true traits of Western Highlands women,” he said.

Contestants Miss Dei Theresianthea Bengi and Miss Mul Baiyer Deshar Raima also appealed for continued support from local businesses, saying such sponsorships help promote empowerment, culture and community pride.

Ms Goni said feedback from local partners such as RedFern Ecotourism Lodge and United Finance was encouraging, showing that the community was embracing the Pageant’s purpose.

The newly crowned Miss Western Highlands will now represent the province at the Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Pageant in Port Moresby on December 3, joining other provincial queens from across the country.