This year, Australian NGO, the Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF), supported 11 exceptional final-year tertiary students to undertake the Archer Leadership Development program including a transformative exchange trip to Australia.
The Archer Leadership Development Program is now in its thirteenth year and seeks to find and foster the next generation of dedicated and passionate leaders for Papua New Guinea.
The year-long, experiential leadership program includes mentoring by a senior leader, work experience placements in Australia and Papua New Guinea, support for tuition and boarding fees, an educational and professional development resource allowance, community projects, as well as the life-changing exchange program to Australia.
The 2023 Archer Leaders are:
● Courtneyella Dotson (Bachelor of Law, University of PNG)
● Latifa Jonathan (Bachelor of Law, University of PNG)
● Rodwaltaz Billy (Bachelor of Law, University of PNG)
● Raymond Billy (Bachelor of Science, University of PNG)
● Luther Temai (Medicine and Surgery, University of PNG)
● Flare Namaliu (Executive Masters in Business Administration, University of PNG)
● Herman Namora, Bachelor of Arts, University of PNG)
● Julia Tubang (Bachelor of Arts, University of PNG)
● Getta Kambar (Construction Management, University of Technology)
● Houston Nen (Building and Construction Management, University of Technology)
● Dianne Siweli Nason (Bachelor of Dentistry, University of PNG)
During the 12-day exchange to Australia, the Archer Leaders participated in a series of enriching experiences intended to enhance their education, broaden their cultural understanding, provide professional experience, and foster invaluable networks.
These included adaptive leadership workshops by Conversus Leaders, a personalised tour of NSW Parliament House hosted by Greens Member for Balmain, Kobi Shetty MP and former member, Jamie Parker, tailored work experience placements, meetings with key leaders from Government, private sector and the community sector, a visit to Channel 7 Hosted by Sharyn Ghidella and an immersion day that included visits to the Auburn Community Centre and the Street University in Western Sydney.
Latifa Jonathan, a 2023 Archer Leader completing a Bachelor of Law at the University of PNG stated, “The Archer Leadership Exchange Program taught me more about myself and my leadership style in 12 days than I ever learnt in 4 years of university.”
“Every day was a journey with myself but also and most importantly with those around me.”
“It has exposed me to new perspectives, new mindsets, new food and amazing people and connections.”
“For the longest time, I’ve become complacent with my impact and what I can do in my community and country.”
“This exchange trip has equipped me and prepared me to see leadership through a different lens and I’m ready to bring every day the best version of my leadership style that I can offer amongst my peers, within my university and in my community in PNG.”
Archer Leaders had the opportunity to engage with distinguished experts in their fields including Anna Madgwick, Director Newcrest Sustainability Fund; Rachel Mason Nunn, Director at Equity Economics; Rory Butler, Associate Director at Avista Strategy; Helen Hamilton-James, Managing Partner at Deloitte Western Sydney; Ian Kemish AM, Chair KTF; and Mihai Sora, Director at Lowy Institute.
Additionally, KTF also partnered with some of Australia’s leading organisations to offer a two-day work experience to the Archer Leaders including Minter Ellison, Newcrest, Victorian Bar, Deloitte, AICD, Canadian High Commission, Partridge Engineers, Dentons and Ashurst.
Dr Genevieve Nelson, CEO of KTF, said “The exchange programme to Australia was transformational!” “We witnessed so many moments of “firsts”.”
“First flights for some, first tram, train and ferry rides for others, first culinary experiences.”
“But more importantly, the exchange focused on broadening perspectives, networks and experiences by introducing the young leaders to new people and organisations working innovatively on the frontline of some of society’s most challenging issues.”
“We are so grateful to every individual and organisation who made the experience “one of a kind!”
This life-changing program would not be possible without the generous support from the Fred P. Archer Trust (via Perpetual Trustees), the Newcrest Sustainability Fund and Kina Bank.
KTF would also like to express its gratitude to the numerous Australian organisations and individuals who played a pivotal role in providing invaluable learning and development opportunities, making this experience truly unforgettable for the Archer Leaders.
KTF takes pride in supporting these young, dynamic leaders who are deeply committed to giving back to their communities and working towards the betterment of Papua New Guinea society.