Pageant all about ‘cultural values’

PORT MORESBY – The newly-crowned Miss Pacific Islands Papua New Guinea, Abigail Havora, says she is looking forward to showcasing PNG at the international final in Cook Islands next month.

Abigail Havora, from Gabagaba, a village in Central Province, took out the crown and other awards, including Best Sarong Wear and Miss Tourism.

The 24-year-old science graduate from the University of PNG was one of six finalists at this year’s pageant, held at Crowne Plaza Hotel in Port Moresby.

She told Radio Australia’s Pacific Beat the event was about “being a cultural ambassador” rather than physical beauty.

“Pacific islanders are very tied to our culture and that’s what the pageant hopes to bring out,” Havora said.

“It’s just about drawing from within, because that’s where our true beauty lies.

“Culture is our way of life so each girl had their own definition or own way to show what culture meant to them, and that was what was showcased on Saturday.”

The first runner-up went to Shamila Paliwa while Mary Konobo was named second runner-up.

Havora said she is looking forward to representing PNG at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant 2015 in Rarotonga from December 5 to 13.

“PNG has a lot to offer, we are very diverse,” she said.

“The pageant is a really good initiative because I looked at it as showcasing your values, what you carry.” - ABC