Linoka Yepthomi, representing Chümoukedima, was crowned Miss Sümi 2025 at a pageant held at the Town Hall, Zunheboto on November 7. (Photography Club Zunheboto)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | November 8
Linoka Yepthomi, representing Chümoukedima, was crowned Miss Sümi 2025 at a pageant held at the Town Hall, Zunheboto on November 7. Akinali Kits, representing Kohima, was adjudged the first runner-up, while Linoka Achumi, from Saptiqa, was named the second runner-up. The event, organised by the Sumi Totimi Hoho, saw eight contestants vie for the coveted crown.
Held under the theme ‘Sülimi Yegha’, the pageant celebrated the qualities of strength, grace, and purpose.
The special guest, Ani Yepthomi, Director of Livingston Foundation International School and College, Dimapur, emphasised the importance of pursuing excellence in all aspects of life while addressing the gathering.
She stated that the youth represent hope for their generation, and their worth is defined by character, not strength or beauty. “Strong women seek confidence. Pain and purpose walk together. God humbles those who exalt themselves; don’t let pride stand in your way,” Yepthomi said.
She encouraged the participants to have faith in themselves, even when others do not, and to use their potential to shape the world with “kindness, compassion, and love.” Yepthomi further advised the young women to prioritise their time, remain grateful to God, and never forget the friends and family who have supported them.
In her address, she also outlined the institution’s initiatives, highlighting its mission to provide holistic education with over 150 skill-based activities. The director announced that students from Zunheboto district can avail a 20-25 per cent concession in both the school and college.
She shared that the institution has established a Center of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence and Drone Technology in collaboration with leading companies and has partnered with the Adani Group for airline-related training programs. For academic courses, the college offers a B.Sc. program for Class 12 Science stream graduates, and GNM courses for those seeking opportunities in Germany and Japan, she added.
The judging panel included, Chief Judge Mele Pucho: President, Northeast Beauty Pageant Organization & Beauty and Aesthetic Society of Nagaland; D Ledia Awomi: President, Ethnic Group of Nagaland (EGoN) & LA Creation & Entertainment; Hikali Achumi: Miss Sumi 2022, Miss Nagaland 2022, and recipient of the Beauty & Glamour Creation Award 2025; Isatoli Aye: Assistant Professor, Zunheboto Government College; Aghato K Naga: Actor, Director, and Producer; Founder & Director of King Chillies Entertainment, Dimapur; and founder of the first Naga OTT platform, Nagaflix.
The event was hosted by Ikali Achumi and Tunavi G Assumi and invocation was said by Rev Inakhu Sumi, Pastor of Zunheboto Town Sumi Baptist Church, with welcome address from Vitoli Rochill, President of the Sumi Totimi Hoho, presentation by Tavinto K Sumi, Event Coordinator and vote of thanks delivered by Linoto Yeptho, Organizing Secretary of the Sümi Totimi Hoho.
Subtitle winners
Miss Multimedia and Miss Talent: Heli Wotsa
Miss Queen of Hearts: Inaghali Yeptho
Miss Fluent Sutsa: Ilobo Aye
Miss Rampwalk: Linoka Yeptho
Miss Beautiful Smile: Vinika P Kiba
