Koge wins inaugural Miss Bird of Paradise Western Province title

Naomi Koge, a 23-year-old kindergarten teacher from Drageli village in South Fly District, was crowned the first Miss Bird of Paradise Western Province during a pageant at the Crows Nest Hotel in Daru, Saturday, 6th September.

Seven contestants competed in the inaugural event, showcasing retro 1960s fashion, traditional attire representing their cultural heritage, and elegant evening gowns. Contestants were judged on style, poise, and confidence.

Koge impressed the judges with her performance, also earning the Miss Introductory title. Diana Olivia Olewale, representing Potters Christian Guest House, was named first runner-up and received the Miss Traditional and Miss Humanitarian awards.

Kimberley Rulete, sponsored by Next Gen-Child Nutrition and Social Protection, won Miss Charity and Miss Photogenic. Sophie Asa received Miss Personality, while Jacklyn Manuambi won Miss Interview.

In her victory speech, Koge expressed gratitude and pledged to serve her community.
“I pledge to work together with people from Western Province to put Western Province up there,” she said. “I stand today to work with the youths, the mothers, the children, my abidas and balas, and uncles.”

Koge thanked the pageant committee, judges, and supporters, vowing to collaborate with youths, mothers, children, and the wider community.