Yasmine Tabogani, a graduate engineer at PNG DataCo Limited, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to her company for sponsoring her participation in the 2024 Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant as Miss DataCo. Speaking at the event, Yasmine thanked her company’s leadership, including Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Paul Komboi and the general managers, for their unwavering support. "I want to thank my bosses, especially CEO Chief Paul Komboi, and the general managers at DataCo," Yasmine said, her voice filled with appreciation. "To have them take time from their busy schedules to join me tonight means so much to me. Their belief in me has been invaluable, and I'm truly honored." Yasmine also shared an inspiring and fun fact about her sponsorship. She revealed how she acted quickly to submit her requisition form for participation just hours before the deadline. "The deadline by the MBoP to confirm a sponsorship ends by 4p.m, and I sent mine in by 12 p.m. on the same day," she explained. "I honestly didn’t think I would make the cut, but to my surprise, I received a response from management almost immediately. And now, here I am, standing before you, sponsored by DataCo to take part in this amazing pageant." In addition to expressing her gratitude toward DataCo, Yasmine thanked the Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant committee for giving her the opportunity to take part in this year's Pageant. “I am deeply thankful to the pageant for choosing me. This opportunity is not just about me; it is about the cause I stand for,” she said. "I’m proud to use this platform to advocate for the empowerment of others, especially young people and those with disabilities." Yasmine’s participation in the Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant is driven by a deep desire to create positive change and empower others. "I’ve always wanted to contribute to my country, but I never thought I had the confidence to do so," she shared. "The Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant has given me the opportunity to raise my hand and represent my country in a way that can truly make a difference." Her ambition extends beyond the title of Miss Bird of Paradise, for Yasmine is more committed to using her platform to inspire and empower young people. "Through this platform, I want to empower young people and show them the power of believing in themselves," she explained. "When I changed my mind set and started believing in my own potential, doors began to open for me, and I want others to experience that same transformation." Yasmine is also passionate about advocating for people with disabilities. "I want to encourage people with disabilities to know that they can accomplish their dreams, just like anyone else," she added. Looking to the future, Yasmine is excited about the journey ahead. “This is just the beginning of my journey,” she shared. "I’m excited to lead with purpose, and I look forward to using this platform to create a lasting impact, not only for my country but for those who need it most.”