MADANG, Papua New Guinea — Newly crowned Mr. and Miss Divine Word University 2026, Gini Sega and Marcia Norman, say their pageant journey was about much more than winning a title. It became an opportunity to develop leadership, build confidence, and prepare for a year of service as ambassadors of the University.

Representing the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Gini admitted he entered the competition with little knowledge of what a pageant truly involved.

"Firstly, I didn't know much about pageants. I thought that a pageant is just fashion," he said.

As the competition progressed, however, he realised the experience was about leadership, advocacy and personal development rather than appearance alone.

Marcia Norman shared similar feelings, saying she initially questioned whether she was ready to compete.

"I was not too confident about participating. I asked myself, 'Am I ready for this?'"

Like many contestants, she balanced academic studies, fundraising activities, family responsibilities and preparations for the pageant while overcoming moments of self-doubt.

For Gini, the demanding schedule almost led him to withdraw from the competition.

"There were moments that made me want to back out, but then I didn't because I wanted to see what the end result would be."

Both titleholders credited their perseverance to the encouragement they received from family, friends and the pageant committee, whose support extended from the early screening process through interviews, fundraising events, rehearsals and crowning night.

"We owe it to them for everything," they said, acknowledging the dedication of everyone who contributed to their journey.

Faith also played a central role throughout the competition. Marcia said contestants and committee members began and ended the program with prayer, drawing strength and unity from their shared belief.

"Before we started the program, we started with a prayer with our committee. And we ended the program with a prayer because everything starts with God."

Despite competing for the same titles, contestants built strong friendships throughout the event, encouraging one another to remain calm and focused regardless of the final result.

"Whatever happens, at least we can inspire. As long as we represented our faculty."

The pair said hearing their names announced as Mr. and Miss Divine Word University 2026 was an unforgettable moment that reflected months of preparation, sacrifice and determination.

Now serving as ambassadors of Divine Word University, Gini and Marcia said they intend to use their platform to promote the University's values through community outreach, student engagement and leadership initiatives.

"We don't want to just be remembered as Miss and Mr. DWU 2026. We want to be remembered not just by the title, but by what we do."

As they begin their year of service, the newly crowned titleholders hope to inspire other students to embrace challenges, step beyond their comfort zones and use leadership as a means of making a positive difference.

Their journey reflects the values of Divine Word University, demonstrating that leadership is built not by titles alone but through resilience, humility, service and a commitment to others.

Divine Word University, Madang Campus, recently hosted the Westpac PNG Graduate Roadshow, providing students with valuable insights into career development and graduate opportunities with one of Papua New Guinea's leading financial institutions.

Facilitated by Ms Agnes Miria, Talent Acquisition Specialist, the session gave students an overview of the 2027 Westpac PNG Graduate Program, highlighting the skills, values, and attributes sought by Westpac, as well as the professional growth opportunities available through the program. Ms Miria was joined by members of the Westpac Madang Branch team, who shared their personal career journeys and experiences, inspiring students and offering firsthand perspectives on building a successful career with Westpac PNG.

Encouraging students to take advantage of the opportunity, Ms Miria emphasized the value of the program in preparing graduates for the workplace.

“The Graduate Development Program provides graduates with the opportunity to gain practical experience, build valuable networks, develop their professional capabilities, and gain exposure to different areas of the business as they begin their career journey,” she said.

Students were also given the opportunity to engage directly with the Westpac team, asking questions about the Graduate Development Program, career pathways, and the application process. The interactive session enabled students to learn from industry professionals and gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in the banking and financial services sector.

Divine Word University extends its sincere appreciation to Ms Agnes Miria and the Westpac Madang Branch team for visiting the University and investing their time to inspire, guide, and empower students as they prepare for their future careers.