IAMPELA Papena is set to represent Papua New Guinea at the upcoming Miss Pacific Islands Pageant, showcasing her commitment to her cultural heritage and advocacy work. At just 19 years old, Ms. Papena is a dedicated economics student at the University of Papua New Guinea and hails from Kugmumb village in the Western Highlands Province.
As the sixth of seven children with roots in both the Western Highlands and Enga Province, Ms. Papena has spent most of her life in the capital city of Port Moresby but remains closely connected to her village, often returning during school breaks to reconnect with her family. “I am honoured to represent my people in the Pacific Pageant and hope to inspire the youth and continue advocating for the rights of women, children, and people with special needs,” she expressed.
Her journey to the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant began during a school break when she first represented her district, later earning the title of Miss Bird of Paradise for her province. This title, she believes, comes with great responsibility. “It carries the duty to serve and to represent my people and land with grace and humility,” she noted.
In her leisure time, Ms. Papena finds solace in gardening, which she describes as a therapeutic hobby that has taught her patience and the reward of nurturing life. She relishes traditional Highlands dishes, particularly Mumu and Talai Rigir, showcasing her pride in Papua New Guinea’s culinary heritage. Furthermore, she enjoys watching documentaries about different cultures, which fuels her curiosity to explore the world.
The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant not only celebrates the beauty and talent of young women but also highlights cultural heritage and leadership within the Pacific community. Ms. Papena’s participation promises to inspire others and shine a light on the potential of youth from her region. Her story is not just one of personal achievement but also embodies the values of community, resilience, and cultural pride.
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