By WASITA ROYAL
In Papua New Guinea, where job opportunities are scarce and environmental degradation looms large, Brenda Balawagi has turned adversity into innovation.
Armed with a Master’s in Environmental Science degree, Brenda has carved a unique path by transforming her struggles into a force for change.
Her story is a reflection of the challenges she faced in her youthful days.
Born in East Sepik and raised in Lae City, Brenda attended Bugandi High School before earning her degree at the University of Papua New Guinea. Determined to deepen her expertise, she self-funded her postgraduate studies at the University of San Carlos in the Philippines from 2014 to 2017.
“Going to the Philippines to study had given me a wider and broader perspective on things like education, business, and innovation,” she said.
“I became a different person after I graduated because I have discovered that there is much I can do with the knowledge and skills I have now. For example, a coconut tree is a tree, but I can do so many things with that one plant.
“Finding jobs in Papua New Guinea is very challenging,” Brenda told the Sunday Bulletin in Kokopo.
Undeterred by the notion of being jobless, she volunteered her serve with a church organisation in 2018 and later became its communication and media director from 2021 to 2023.
However, Brenda’s determination to get a real job or do her own thing persisted.
Frustrated by unemployment, she embraced a new mantra: “Keep trying and also start up something you can do whilst job hunting”.
Brenda’s new mindset birthed EcoBiota Environmental Services, which is focused on environmental education.
The research and presentation skills honed in the Philippines has equipped her to advise communities on sustainability.
“My business is focused on environmental education, and it is satisfying when I help clients learn to solve issues they face from environmental impacts around them,” she said.
Beyond consultancy, Brenda invests in grassroots change. She mentors youth and women through church programs, advocating for women’s leadership and empowerment.
“Use your skills, talents, or what you are passionate about to help those in the communities close to you. Starting a business should not only focus on money; you must be purpose-driven to help provide options to solve a problem—and that’s where people will support your dream. When we share, we continue to expand our knowledge and skills.”
Brenda aims to transform EcoBiota into an educational organisation that creates jobs in East Sepik by providing employment opportunities for business-minded people.
Brenda’s journey of education, resilience, and purpose has rewritten destinies—both personal and national.
For students hesitating to leap, she urges: “Take the risk and explore while you still have the chance. Life evolves and we age over time. When you have the opportunity to study abroad, take it and go. You may never know what is waiting for you out there.”
Indeed, Branda is showing the way for young Papua New Guineans to turn challenges into ventures, and passion into impact.