The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant project runway, was a testament to the fact that fashion sense has truly evolved in PNG!
The challenge however is that when PNG steps up its game in fashion, other Pacific Islands will always be a few more steps ahead, as is the statement made by one local designer Yana Copeland.
The project runway that took place over the weekend, showed something more beautiful – and it was collaboration between designers.
This is hope enough.
And it was highlighted by the patron of MPIP PNG, Lynda Babao O’Neill, wife of the Prime Minister.
She made mention of the guest designers Epeli Rakai Tuibeqa from Fiji, Sione Maileseni from Tonga and judges Bou Fonua and Cecelia Keil, who are also professional experienced designers.
“I believe that it is through collaboration that PNG’s fashion industry would be sustainable,” said the patron.
She also applauded local designers for the courage and boldness to share their creation that will play a role to develop this industry.
“When a designer designs, they pour their heart and soul into it. They are giving us a glimpse into their being. I commend their boldness, their bravery to change the way we look at fashion in PNG.
“And they are paving the way to inspire up and coming designers, designing a building block for a bright and vibrant fashion industry in PNG” she said.