Elizabeth Ruby Taurega Omeri
Fashion Designer & Owner of Denani
Elizabeth Ruby Taurega Omeri, aged 50, hails from a diverse background, with roots in Milne Bay and Central provinces, specifically Trobriand Island, Marshall Lagoon, and Domara. She is happily married and is the creative force behind the esteemed fashion label DENANI, named after her late father, Tony Denani Goweli Taurega. Her distinctive design, known as DOBA, is the signature mark of DENANI.
In her early teens, Elizabeth embarked on her sewing journey, initially crafting garments for family and close friends. Over time, she honed her skills, expanding into bridal, evening, and casual wear. Although largely self-taught, she furthered her expertise in pattern designing at the PNG Garment and Textile Training Institute in Port Moresby in 2009.
Inspired by her deep connection to Papua New Guinea's cultural heritage, Elizabeth established Denani Designs as a 100% nationally owned business. Since its inception in 2013, the label has actively participated in Fashion Runway platforms, both domestically and internationally, promoting the rich cultural tapestry of Papua New Guinea. Elizabeth envisions showcasing the nation's abundant creativity, talent, and diverse culture through traditional contemporary designing.
Denani Designs specializes in textile printing and accessories, with a mission to empower individuals, families, and communities through skill development. The label strives to be a hub for ethical and sustainable fashion, contributing to social and economic improvements in the community. Their values encompass a people-centered approach, an integrated sustainability focus, and a commitment to training and empowering women and youth.
Elizabeth aspires to establish a Fashion School of Design in Papua New Guinea, fostering a new generation of designers committed to sustainability. Sewing, to her, is a means of self-expression, and she believes it empowers individuals to take pride in their creations, standing out in a crowd.
Among the highlights of Denani Designs are multiple appearances at prestigious fashion shows such as Stella Runway, Pacific Fashion Festival, PNG Fashion Week, and Pacific International Runway in Sydney, Australia. Elizabeth's involvement in the Miss Pacific Island PNG Project Runway and Miss PNG Quest reflects her dedication to using fashion as a platform for empowerment and cultural preservation.
Elizabeth emphasizes the urgency of safeguarding Papua New Guinea's cultural heritage in the face of modernization, viewing traditional contemporary wear as a testament to her story, heritage, and pride as a Papua New Guinean. She believes the time is ripe for Papua New Guineans to harness their creativity, talent, knowledge, skills, and natural resources to preserve, promote, and protect their rich cultural legacy.