The people of West Sepik Province gathered in Vanimo on Sunday, August 31, to witness history as the first Miss Bird of Paradise Sandaun Pageant crowned its inaugural queen. The week-long cultural celebration brought together five contestants who showcased the unique traditions, beauty, and talents of West Sepik. The final night featured competitions in four categories: Sarong, Talent, Traditionally Inspired Dress, and Stage Interview. Earlier events included Topic Presentation, Float, and Miss Traditional. At the end of the night, Carol Hwena, representing Vanimo Free Trade Zone Ltd, was crowned the first Miss Bird of Paradise Sandaun. Hwena also claimed several major awards, including Best Stage Interview, Best Float, Best Sarong, and Miss Traditional. The 24-year-old is from Vanimo Village in the Bewani Wutung Onei LLG and holds a bachelor’s degree in forestry from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology. Other awards went to; - Kristina Konie (Miss Bewani Palm Oil Development Ltd) 1st Runner Up - Annie Rose Wouwou (Miss Seleven Sio Construction) 2nd Runner Up - Natasha Fulieng (Miss Telefomin) Miss Friendship - Tia Nalaik (Miss Golden Medallion Hotel) Committee’s Choice In a statement, the Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Pageant Committee congratulated Hwena on her victory and praised all contestants for being “tremendous ambassadors for their communities and West Sepik Province.” The successful staging of the inaugural event was celebrated by organizers and participants alike as a proud milestone for the province.