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.