PNG’s Iampela Popena Highlights Culture at Fiji Pageant

Papua New Guinea’s representative in the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant, Iampela Popena, attended the World Safer Internet Day event at the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa this week, joining contestants from across the region to advocate for safe and responsible internet use.

 PNG’s Iampela Popena Highlights Culture at Fiji Pageant/Photo credit: Miss Pacific official

Iampela drew attention with a stunning bilum dress, which reflects PNG’s cultural artistry. The gown, designed by renowned bilum fibre artist Florence Jaukae Kamel, earned admiration from both peers and spectators for its intricate weaving and traditional design.

On the third day of pageant activities, the Miss Bird of Paradise remains fully engaged in events, promoting her message of positive influence, community service, and empowerment.

In online voting, PNG currently tops the Miss Internet poll with 18.4K reactions. Tonga follows with 16.2K, Samoa 13.3K, and Kiribati 5.9K. American Samoa has 3.6K, while Fiji and the Cook Islands are tied at 2.2K reactions.

Fans can continue casting their votes until 5pm Fiji Time on 13 February, ahead of the main pageant events scheduled for 13–14 February.

Iampela encouraged supporters to take part: “Every vote helps my country shine and spreads an important message about safe digital spaces in the Pacific.”