Enga Province has officially become the newest and first-ever Highlands province to join the prestigious Miss Bird of Paradise (MBOP) Papua New Guinea Pageant.
The partnership was sealed on Saturday, September 27th, after MBOP Founder and Chairlady Anna Bais signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Tania Nugent, CEO of the Enga Provincial Tourism Bureau. The signing was witnessed by officials from the Enga Provincial Administration.
The MBOP and the new Enga Pageant team stressed that the platform will be a significant opportunity for the daughters of Enga. It aims to develop them as young woman leaders while promoting education and advocacy for disadvantaged children, particularly those living with disabilities.
MBOP PNG Chair Anna Bais commended the partnership, stating, “Through this partnership, Enga is empowering its young women to step forward and represent her people. Papua New Guinea looks forward to learning more about Enga through the voice and presence of her Queen.”
Tania Nugent highlighted the speed and enthusiasm surrounding the launch. She revealed that in just two days since the call-outs, the committee had received over 50 applications from young women both in Port Moresby and Enga Province.
Nugent also confirmed the cultural significance of the inaugural event:
- The first-ever Miss Bird of Paradise Enga will be crowned on October 2nd, coinciding with Enga Provincial Day.
- The pageant will now be an annual event, managed by the Enga Provincial Administration and Tourism Bureau.
Nugent acknowledged the strong backing from the provincial leadership, including the full support of Enga Provincial Administrator Sandis Tsaka and Governor of Enga Province, Sir Peter Ipatas, ensuring the platform’s sustainability.
Both organisations are optimistic, looking forward to seeing the Enga Pageant grow into a proud platform for advocacy and cultural pride in the Highlands region.
