By ORCHY REX
CHAIRPERSON and Managing Director for ExxonMobil PNG Limited (EMPNG) Ms Tera Sandro has emphasised the importance of empowering women to drive economic empowerment for all Papua New Guineans to mark the International Women’s Day today, Friday 8 March, 2024.
Recalling ExxonMobil’s history in empowering women in workforce, Ms Sandro explained that the company’s mission is to meet the worlds evolving energy needs.
She said this can be fully accomplished by inspiring careers, business and community development opportunities for its workforce.
“Our operations are setting benchmarks globally and are breaking down traditional gender stereotypes and barriers.
“Today we have almost 650 women working across PNG LNG and over the last decade we have trained more than 200 highly qualified technicians of which 30 percent are women.
“This percentage is higher than most countries around the world where we operate, and it’s something we are very proud of,” she said.
Guided with this year’s theme: “Count Her In, Invest in Women and Accelerate Progress,” women from across EMPNG shared insights on their professional growth and opportunities.
Ms. Alma Gaso, who is currently on international assignment with ExxonMobil Singapore in the role of Commercial Manager had this to say.
“I’m fortunate to have gained experience and exposure to other areas not within my field of study and that is one aspect of working with EMPNG.
“I appreciate the opportunity to expand my knowledge and skills through various work fronts, training as well as constantly learning from the experiences of my colleagues.”
EMPNG’s Lawyer Kymerlee Cholai shared: “Our Company succeeds by identifying and enhancing the potential of its workforce, and my growth within the ExxonMobil legal team is an example of that.
“I have had the opportunity to work with and share insights with experts in their trades across all professions within ExxonMobil and its affiliate Mobil Oil New Guinea Limited across an array of subjects from engineering to finance.
“Everyone wants to see everyone grow regardless of your trade and for me, that’s what’s most special about being on this team”.
Ms Sandro further highlighted that “EMPNG aims to inspire and promote inclusion in the workplace by celebrating diversity and investing in programs that help women makes a difference through education, knowledge sharing and skills development”.
She said that commitment extends beyond the gates of the company and touches numerous civic organizations as well including Counterpart International, Advancing PNG, Women Leaders Network, the Business and Professional Women’s Club, and the Business Coalition for Women to name just a few.
“Creating equal and diversified opportunities for women in all facets of our business is something we are passionate about.
“From supplier diversity to talent and community investment, we know that when women move forward, they move the world forward.”
