First time fashion designer for the PNG Fashion Week Runway show 2024, Stephanie Tukavai was all smiles as she expressed excitement showcasing some of her unique pieces that she is bringing to the runway tonight in Port Moresby city. Tukavai is among three emerging designers who were selected by PNG Fashion Week to take part in this year’s runway show and with that, shared with PNG HAUSBUNG an insight into her collection. “My collection is called Kuma Ri Kai, which in Kuanua tokples (language) means, ‘arise.’” Tukavai, who comes from a mixed parentage of Madang and East New Britain provinces and lives in Lae city, has always had an interest in fashion and now in reality can share that tonight with others to see, especially the guests international designers. “Mostly, my collection is more casual. I am into up- cycling and recycling sustainable fashion and that’s something I haven’t seen any other designers do yet and so I’m both nervous and excited at the same time to bring in something new to the runway.” “My pieces are more to do with off cut fabrics in the dresses that I make. So right now, I am mostly focusing on women’s wear and later in the future, hopefully get into creating men’s wear as well.” In addition, Tukavai hopes to grow and nurture from here in this area of fashion and to bring something unique and wearable for all ages to wear. Meanwhile, the show will start at 6pm this evening at the APEC Haus. For those who have not had a chance to purchase tickets, they can still purchase them at the venue entrance.