News
Empowering individuals and strengthening communities
Mary Balupa is an ambitious advocate for the elimination of violence against women, girls and children. She has contributed enormously not only to the training of nurses on counselling skills but also to the establishment of Family Support Centres in Southern Highlands Province since last year.
Surviving the tsunami and became a teacher
Gethrude Amunti survived the tsunami that swept away the whole Sissano village in West Sepik Province 25 years ago. She obtained a Diploma in Primary Teaching through an Australia Awards Scholarship and is now teaching at Olbrum Primary School. The school currently sits on land that was a place of refuge for Gethrude and her family when fleeing from the tsunami that claimed more than 2,000 lives.
The legacy continues for Mary Roroipe
For most coastal people, the sea is part of their way of life – this is true for 29-year-old marine engineer Mary Roroipe. From an early age, Mary was exposed to seafaring through her late father’s small craft business, chartering passengers across the maritime province of Milne Bay. So, it comes as no surprise that Mary followed in her father’s footsteps by becoming a marine engineer after completing a marine cadetship, supported by an Australia Awards PNG scholarship.
The story of Pacificana
From a humble beginning in a single parent’s home to owner of a thriving business, we celebrate the remarkable story of Amanda Kanasa on the day of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises.
Amanda is known for her Port Moresby-based local SME, branded Pacificana, that designs and sells fashion products ranging from hair flowers and coconut earrings to dresses and bags sold throughout the Pacific and now in Cairns, Australia.
Profession for all
Despite being a male nurse in a profession often seen as traditional for women, Issac is proud to break stereotypes and serve his community with compassion and excellence. “Nursing is not just a profession for women, it’s a profession for all,” says Issac. “I want to make a difference in the lives of my patients, regardless of their background,” says Issac with empathy.
Commemorating Seafarer’s Day: Celebrating Women in Maritime
Today, on Seafarer’s Day, we appreciate the extraordinary women who are part of the maritime industry, paving the way for aspiring women seafarers. These remarkable individuals are part of the Australia Awards Maritime Scholarship Program for women, an initiative established through a partnership between Australia Awards PNG and Steamships Trading Company. This program goes beyond addressing the global shortage of female seafarers—it is a catalyst for gender equality and empowerment.