Faith based organization Believe Global, recently opened its first Community Hub in Mandress in Gazelle district in the East New Britain Province. The community hub first opened on the 22nd of April in the presence of East New Britain Governor, Michael Marum, Open Member for Gazelle and Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources Jelta Wong as well as Believe Global Director, Neil Smith along with leaders and members of the community.
The opening ceremony was a momentous occasion not only for Believe Global but for the local community, the district and the province as a whole. Believe Global exists to bring positive impact in five key spheres of influence; leadership, business, education, health and the church. With that, the Community Hub functions as the infrastructure needed to bring transformation and uplift in these areas.
Hubs are designed to provide dedicated youth development programs such as education training, health services and general community support in rural areas across the nation which are equipped with high-tech A/V connections via internet for ease of global connectivity and program delivery.
Meanwhile, this Hub model breaks away from the traditional “silo” model of community services, providing a holistic and integrated model that fosters community engagement and connectivity with the belief that the installation of these Hubs will significantly contribute to Papua New Guinea’s 2050 vision of becoming a smart, wise, fair, healthy and happy society, transcending geographical boundaries to build a stronger nation and brighter future for all.
According to Believe Global Director, Neil Smith, the Community Hubs are the realization of a vision that began in 2015, and the product of a strong partnership with Minister Jelta Wong.
“Believe Global has been involved in community initiatives, youth development and education programs in Papua New Guinea since 2015 and has been expanding since.”
Governor Michael Marum expressed that he was impressed by the scale of the project, which exceeded his expectations and looks forward to the positive outcomes that will emerge over time, especially for the youth of the community.
In addition, Minister Wong, in turn, communicated his deep appreciation of the Believe Team and encouraged everyone to make the most of these facilities for the betterment of the community. The recent launch of the Community Hub is just the first of many and hopes to see many more in the future.