By GEORGINA MICHAEL
THE 2026 Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Pageant Week and National Crowning Event will be held from November 23 to December 3 in Mt Hagen, Western Highlands Province, with contestants from 19 provinces expected to participate.
The dates were announced by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister and Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Patron Hon. Belden Nama, Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Chairlady Anna Bais, reigning queen Iiampela Popena and Western Highlands Governor Hon. Wai Rapa, who will host the event.
The announcement was made in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and the Western Highlands Provincial Government.
Minister Nama said the pageant had grown significantly since 2023 and had become a respected national institution.
“What began as a vision to create a meaningful platform for young Papua New Guinean women has evolved to champion leadership, culture, advocacy, education and community service,” Mr Nama said.
He said the pageant was more than a beauty competition, describing it as a national platform that celebrates the intelligence, leadership, resilience and cultural pride of Papua New Guinean women.
“It provides an avenue for young women to develop confidence, leadership skills and a commitment to serving their communities while becoming advocates for tourism, culture and nation building,” he said.
Ms Popena said she was proud that the national crowning would be held outside Port Moresby for the first time.
“I’m especially excited that this year’s national crowning event will be hosted in Mt Hagen. It is a historic moment for the province and for the Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Organisation,” she said.
Ms Popena said her journey with the pageant began in Western Highlands and described it as a journey of self-discovery, leadership, cultural pride, personal growth and service.
“I look forward to welcoming all provincial queens, contestants, chaperones and delegates to Mt Hagen to experience the warmth and cultural richness my province is
known for,” she said.
Ms Bais acknowledged the Western Highlands Provincial Government and Governor Rapa for hosting the event and thanked sponsors for their continued support.