By GABRIEL KATUHO
IN the scenic village of Agemant, nestled within the Wapenamanda Local Level Government (LLG) of Tsak District in Enga Province, a remarkable story unfolds.
A story of a man with no formal education, who has defied predictable career paths by becoming a skilled individual with a wide range of expertise in electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, mechanics, and panel beating.
Unlike many who choose a specific field of expertise, Newman Paro’s journey led him through various trades, showcasing his adaptability and resilience.
His journey into the workforce began when he left his village and ventured to OK Tedi mining, where he spent two decades working in diverse roles. Upon returning to his roots after 20 years, Newman leveraged the skills acquired at the mining site.
He devoted himself to helping his community by constructing houses and installing electrical lines. His selflessness not only improved local infrastructure but also allowed him to earn a living.
Driven by a continuous quest for employment opportunities, Newman embarked on a journey to Pogera Mine, where he started working as a security guard for three years. After gaining experience and financial stability, he returned home and engaged in private jobs in Wapenamanda and Wabag areas. In 2019, he sought fresh opportunities in the LNG industry in Hela Province.
Newman’s transition at the LNG site marked a turning point in his career. Under the guidance of James – an Arab man who owned a construction company at the mine site – Newman evolved from a security guard to an equipment operator. James imparted knowledge on various heavy machinery, including rollers, dozers, moxies, global cats, Komatchu, and Tata.
During his three-year tenure at the LNG site, Newman contributed to the upgrading of the airport. However, when the company’s contract concluded in 2000, Newman had accumulated sufficient funds to pursue his long-cherished dream – relocating to Port Moresby for a better life. After a two-month stay in Lae, Newman finally made his way to the capital city in 2002. Today, he resides at 14Mile and served as the Hygiene Officer for The Napa Napa LNG landowners.
Beyond his official role, Newman continues to showcase his versatile skill set, offering services in panel beating, welding, plumbing, mechanics, carpentry, and even operating heavy-duty machinery when needed.
Newman’s journey has come full circle as he is now a proud father of six children, with his oldest son employed at PNG Power. His commitment to provide a better life for his family reflects the resilience and determination that defined his unconventional career path.
From the remote village of Agemant to the bustling city of Port Moresby, Newman Paro’s story stands as a testament to the extraordinary possibilities that unfold when one embraces diverse skills and opportunities on the journey of life to become the man of all trade.
