Polopa in race to fight for women

AN employee of the Porgera mine is hoping to strike gold and become queen of Papua New Guinea.
She is Vinnlynne Polopa, 25, from Enga, who works as an environmental management officer at the mine.
Polopa is chasing the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant PNG crown this year.
She wants to win to be a stronger voice for women in her community.
She said the association supports mothers in Porgera valley in agricultural activities and she, as a pageant contestant, not only represents the association but also the women in rural communities.
“I decided to join because we need more women to be outspoken about the issues affecting women in rural areas,” she said.
Pagenat chairwoman Molly O’Rourke said it is amazing to see women and groups such as the association standing up in society to empower women.
She thanked the association for giving young women like Polopa an opportunity to act as cultural ambassadors of their country.
Reigning Miss Pacific Islands PNG Niawali Twain said the pageant gives young women the opportunity to grow in virtue and value.
“Women empowerment is at the heart of this pageant, and is seen through the contestant’s participation, designers’ show at the Project Runway and the scholarships provided to young women each year,” she said.
“It is our hope this year that we shall be joined once more by the sponsors, contestants and supporters to continue this journey of empowerment. I would like to encourage every young woman; your life’s journey is unique and has the power to inspire many others.”
Today is International Women’s Day.