Ruopfuzhano returns as brand ambassador for Toyota Hornbill Music Festival 2025

KOHIMA — Former Miss Nagaland Ruopfuzhano Whiso has been announced as the brand ambassador for the Toyota Hornbill Music Festival 2025.

The announcement was made by Y Vikheho Swu, Managing Director of Okusa Automobiles Pvt. Ltd., during a press conference at the Toyota showroom in Kohima on Friday.

The briefing was addressed by Swu, Whiso, and a representative from Toyota Kirloskar Motor. Swu said Whiso was chosen again because of her ability to promote and give identity to Naga youth, adding that her previous engagement as ambassador had been impactful.

Also read: Nagaland: Line-up for Toyota Hornbill Music Festival 2025 announced

He noted that Toyota has been given the privilege of presenting the Hornbill Music Festival for the fourth year and expressed gratitude to the government of Nagaland. Describing Hornbill as a platform to showcase Naga culture, food, art, creativity and innovation, he said music continues to play a central role in the festival’s appeal.

Swu also acknowledged the contribution of the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), saying it has taken Nagaland’s music scene to new heights and helped promote Naga musicians to wider audiences. He said the company aims to support Naga youth, especially in the field of music, and is satisfied with the progress made so far.

Sharing her experience, Whiso said it has been “wonderful” associating with Toyota. This will be her second year as ambassador, and she recalled last year’s experience as exciting, with several activities and engagements, including interacting with the Japanese troupe DrumTao, who are set to perform again this year. She added that the public response has been encouraging and expressed hope of contributing even more this year.