The Australian Government, through its Team Up program, is making a positive impact in Papua New Guinea by partnering with local sporting organizations to use sport as a platform for promoting social change.
As part of the global 20 Days of Activism campaign, Team Up partners recently conducted a series of activities aimed at promoting gender equality, respect, and empowerment.
These initiatives highlighted how sport can unite communities, foster inclusivity, and drive progress.
One of the standout events took place on Women Human Rights Defenders Day, when AFL PNG’s Pilai Long Senis program led a collaborative visit to Bomana Correctional Services.
The visit was joined by other Team Up partners and focused on engaging women inmates in discussions about human rights, wellbeing, and empowerment.
Through the use of sport, the visit aimed to promote physical and mental health, resilience, and the importance of community support.
Participants were introduced to a variety of sports, each with a focus on teamwork and skill-building:
- Australian Football League (AFL) drills, led by AFL PNG.
- Basketball fundamentals through Basketball PNG’s Basketball4Good program.
- Teamwork and collaboration exercises from Hockey PNG’s Hook In4 Health initiative.
- Rugby League skills through NRL PNG’s League Bilong Laif program.
The day culminated in interactive games and mini matches, reinforcing the values of respect, inclusion, and teamwork.
Bomana Prison Chief Inspector, Mrs. Iuki Gerason, praised the initiative, noting that the activities offered inmates a valuable opportunity to engage in positive, uplifting experiences.
"Their participation in these activities makes a significant difference. It provides relief from sadness and depression and contributes to improving health.”
