More than 500 women from the Moresby South electorate attended a two-day Women in Leadership Forum held at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby.
Held under the theme “Economic Empowerment, Leadership and Advocacy,” the forum was the first of its kind for the electorate and aimed at building a stronger and more equitable Moresby South.
Addressing the participants, NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop MP described the forum as very important and commended the women of Moresby South for taking the initiative to organise such an event.
“Women must rise up and take their place, and not be suppressed or looked down upon by men,” Governor Parkop said.
“You are leaders in your own right. Today also marks Human Rights Day. Development should be about the progress of our people. The laws are there-think about our children.”
The women who attended were selected from various suburbs within the electorate based on their leadership roles and responsibilities within their communities.
Participants discussed pressing community issues to help inform Moresby South MP, Hon. Justin Tkatchenko, about challenges faced at the grassroots level. Topics included women in politics, gender-based violence, women living with disabilities, women in economic leadership, women in community leadership, and young women in leadership.
Moresby South Motu-Koita Women’s Representative, Ms Anna Skate, said the forum highlighted key issues affecting women and focused on finding solutions.
“The forum will enable us to consolidate our outcomes and present them to Minister Tkatchenko so these issues can be addressed to help women in our villages and communities,” Ms Skate said.
She added that the presenters and panelists were among the most experienced women leaders across different sectors in Moresby South.
“Our focus was to bring these women forward to speak about the challenges they face and share their leadership experiences. I believe this forum is a step in the right direction for women who are open to change, want to make a difference, and aspire to reach their full potential.”
Ms Skate said the forum would strengthen women’s ability to continue supporting and uplifting women across the electorate.
The program also featured cultural entertainment and performances by groups including the Talis Women’s Group from Gulf Province and the Walis Dance Group from Pari.