A historic Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed on Wednesday, 9th July 2025 between Miss Bird of Paradise PNG (MBoP PNG), the West Sepik Provincial Administration, and the Vanimo Green River District Administration, marking the official launch of the Miss Bird of Paradise Sandaun Pageant. The agreement paves the way for a strategic collaboration aimed at elevating cultural identity, empowering young women, and positioning Sandaun Province as a vibrant hub for cultural tourism in celebration of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary Golden Jubilee. The pageant will be coordinated by the Commerce and Tourism Division of the West Sepik Provincial Administration, led by Director Mr. Ian Tonte, in support of Mrs. Chrissilla Kabe Talis, the official MBoP Sandaun Pageant Organizer. Anna Bais, Founder and Chairlady of MBoP PNG, commended the momentum in Sandaun, stating: “The ecosystem of empowerment being built here across designers, artisans, dancers, performers, photographers, and videographers will be showcased to the rest of the country.” Deputy Provincial Administrator Mr. Albert Mutumap, who officiated the signing on behalf of the Acting Provincial Administrator, confirmed the full support of the West Sepik Provincial Administration, describing the initiative as a timely platform for unity, inclusion, and cultural pride. Echoing the enthusiasm, Mr. Kida Ambakua, District Administrator for Vanimo Green River, reaffirmed the district’s commitment, noting the pageant’s potential to promote tourism, inspire youth leadership, and boost regional visibility. The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Member for Vanimo Green River Electorate, and Patron of Miss Bird of Paradise, Belden Norman Namah, is a key champion of the program and has expressed unwavering support for the rollout of 22 Provincial Pageants. “Having 22 Provincial Culture and Tourism Ambassadors will be a powerful symbol of national identity and pride. Each young woman represents a story, a people, and a culture worthy of the world’s attention,” he said. The Miss MBoP Sandaun Pageant will be held in Vanimo from 25th to 31st August 2025. The crowned winner will go on to represent Sandaun Province at the National Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Pageant, alongside winners from all 22 provinces, each serving as a Culture and Tourism Ambassador for Papua New Guinea. The Sandaun Pageant is part of the VGRE 50th Anniversary Celebration Plan, which features four signature events: - Miss MBoP Sandaun Pageant – 25 to 31 August - VGRE Pikinini Culture Show- 12 to 14 September - VGRE Musical Festival – 15 September - Sandaun Selkambang Show – 16 September Together, these events create a meaningful platform to honor the nation’s Golden Jubilee by celebrating cultural diversity, empowering communities, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.