DWU Crowns Mr and Miss Divine Word University 2026 at a Night of Leadership, Talent and Service

The Mr. & Miss Divine Word University 2026 Pageant Night was a spectacular evening of elegance, talent, and leadership at the DWU Madang Campus. Contestants representing the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Faculty of Business and Informatics, and the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences impressed the audience with their career wear presentations, contemporary talents, evening wear displays, and on-stage responses to questions from the judging panel, showcasing confidence, intelligence, and character.

In his welcome address, Student Representative Council President Mr. Penuel Ben Wangu reminded the audience that the pageant was about much more than competition, emphasizing that "being crowned is not only about appearance, but about character, intelligence, confidence, and a genuine desire to serve." He also highlighted the event's greater purpose, noting that proceeds from the evening would support the installation of water tap filters across student residences and the FMHS campus, adding that "every contribution made tonight is helping turn this vision into a reality for our students."

The evening was further enriched by a keynote address from DWU President Professor Fr. Philip Gibbs, who encouraged contestants to embrace leadership through service and to use their gifts and education to make a meaningful difference in their communities. Reflecting on the role of young leaders in nation-building, he reminded the audience that "true success is measured not only by personal achievement, but by the positive impact we have on the lives of others." Guest speaker Ms. Kappa Gaoma, Miss Divine Word University 2022 and Communication Arts (Journalism) alumna, thanked Divine Word University for providing a platform that helps students grow holistically and pursue their dreams, noting that "DWU continues to empower students to discover their potential, build confidence, and become leaders in their own right." Miss Divine Word University 2025, Theresianthea Bengi, a Communication Arts (Journalism) student, also shared her journey of growth and service, encouraging students to support one another and reminding them that "a woman's success doesn't take away from yours; there is enough room for all of us."

The night concluded with the presentation of awards and the crowning of the new Mr. and Miss Divine Word University 2026. DWU extends its heartfelt congratulations to all contestants for their outstanding performances and sincere appreciation to the Student Representative Council, organising committee, staff, students, sponsors, and volunteers whose hard work made the event a memorable success.

The DWU Pageant Contestants (from left to right)

Mr and Miss Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences,

Gini Sega & Marcia Norman, Mr And Miss Faculty

of Business & Informatics, Jonathan Waso &

Sietske Kapera, Mr & Miss Faculty of Medicine &

Health Sciences  McQuard Kombe & Shantelle Auka.

Mr. and Miss DWU 2026.

Mr. and Miss Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences