ALOVA MANU: FROM THE COSMOPOLITAN TO THE APEC HAUS – PNG’S FIRST FASHION DESIGNER ANNOUNCED FOR THE GENESIS SHOW AT PNG FASHION WEEK 2025
17 March 2025 - Port Moresby, PNG
Alova Manu, an emerging star in Papua New Guinea's fashion scene, is breaking boundaries and capturing hearts with every stitch. From the quiet heart of Central Province, Alova’s passion for sewing ignited in 2022, inspired by the steady hands of her mother, a lifelong tailor. With fashion running deeply through her veins, Alova’s creative journey is a testament to the power of family, tradition, and ambition.
In 2025, Alova’s dreams took flight when she triumphed in the prestigious Cosmopolitan Amateur Fashion Designers Competition, winning the top spot just last Saturday at the Cosmopolitan. Her victory, a powerful debut into the fashion world, opened the door to an even greater milestone: Alova is set to become the very first Papua New Guinean designer to be announced for the Genesis Show during PNG Fashion Week 2025. This moment is not just a personal triumph; it’s a monumental achievement for her entire family and the PNG fashion community.
Alova’s designs are more than just clothing; they are a celebration of the human body in all its forms. With every piece, she breathes life into fabric, sculpting garments that hug, embrace, and empower. Alova believes that fashion is a force of transformation — an art that should make every person feel their most confident and beautiful, regardless of shape, size, or background. Her creations are a testament to her philosophy: that fashion should empower and uplift, making the wearer feel elegant and proud in their own skin.
It’s no surprise that Alova’s ascent in fashion is fueled by the creative energy of her family. Her mother, a master of the sewing machine, has long been her guiding force, weaving the threads of talent and inspiration into Alova’s work. Fashion runs deep in her bloodline; her cousin, Geno Karo, is one of the top models at PNG Fashion Week, known for her commanding presence on the runway. Another cousin, Ruby Karo, is also making waves in the modeling world. With such a remarkable family legacy, Alova’s journey is destined to be one of brilliance, creativity, and global recognition.
As she prepares for her debut at the Genesis Show, Alova Manu stands at the precipice of a new era in PNG fashion. From her humble beginnings at the Cosmopolitan Competition to the prestigious APEC Haus, her rise is nothing short of extraordinary. This is not just her journey — it’s the story of Pacific fashion making its mark on the world stage.
Alova’s work is a stunning fusion of cultural heritage, cutting-edge design, and a commitment to body positivity. With every thread she weaves, Alova is shaping not just the future of PNG fashion but also redefining the way the world views beauty and style. Her creations will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression, as Alova continues to shine brightly and inspire others to follow in her footsteps. The world is watching, and Alova Manu is ready to lead.