Kina Bank was delighted to collaborate with RISE on "I Build My Pathway" Careers and Entrepreneurship workshop on Saturday 10th May 2025 to teach young girls entrepreneurial skills and offer them valuable opportunities to learn and serve.

As part of its sponsorship, Kina Bank presented a business loan (with no interest) to schoolgirls from Tokarara Secondary School in NCD. Envelopes containing cash were given to five groups of girls to start their own business project. RISE Founder and Director, Michelle Pillay expressed her gratitude to Kina Bank for the support.

“The inclusion of Kina Bank in the entrepreneurship project, particularly through the presentation of the business loan concept, offered a critical, real-world dimension to our students’ learning.”

“This opportunity not only enhanced their understanding of financial literacy and business fundamentals but also encouraged innovative thinking and leadership.”

“The mentees were inspired by the idea that a major national institution believes in their ideas and is willing to support them.”

“As the lender for our young women’s business projects, Kina Bank is not only helping to launch entrepreneurial ventures but is also actively shaping the next generation of PNG’s business and community leaders,” she said.

Kina Bank Executive General Manager Business - Retail Banking and Guest Speaker Rayeleene Elston shared her inspiring personal journey to motivate both mentees and mentors.

She urged the girls to step out of their comfort zones and break the cycle of generational hardships, stating, "No matter what you go through in life, choose to be different. Choose your path and make the decision to be somebody."

Kina Bank Chairman Ian Clough also applauded the partnership between the bank and the RISE Program saying, “It was great to see our team involved in this fantastic program which is helping to further empower and engage women in PNG.”

Kina Bank is also pleased to have two staff members, Grace Eli - Senior Legal Officer and Margarette Maggio - Asset Recoveries Officer, serving as mentors in the program, providing their expertise and guidance to these young girls.

The RISE Program is a youth empowerment initiative aimed at fostering personal growth, education, and employment opportunities through structured mentoring. The program aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly focusing on quality education and gender equality.