In the spirit of this year’s International Women’s Day theme—Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls—staff from Femili PNG’s National Office and Lae Case Management Centre (CMC) gathered at Lae Secondary Hall on March 6 to honour and celebrate female colleagues whose tireless commitment continues to transform lives across Morobe Province and Papua New Guinea.
The Femili PNG Outreach Team led the program, paying tribute to the women who embody justice, leadership, and hope. From management and project heads to case managers, outreach and communications officers, finance, administration, and support staff, these women carry out their roles with courage and compassion, driving the organisation’s mission forward every day.
The event opened with remarks from Executive Officer Elly Toimbo, who welcomed attendees and underscored the importance of recognising women’s contributions in both communities and workplaces. Her message set the tone for a celebration that highlighted the strength, resilience, and leadership of women across the organisation.
Following the opening remarks, Communications Manager Renat Muruket gave a brief introduction to Femili PNG’s work and the significance of International Women’s Day. She emphasised not the organisation’s journey or history, but the brave and courageous women who have been the driving force behind Femili PNG’s growth and impact. Renat expressed special gratitude to Femili PNG’s CEO and senior female staff, acknowledging them as the backbone of the organisation.
“Let us take heart, reflect and acknowledge our strength, contributions, and commitment. Let us celebrate knowing that our service to survivors of family and sexual violence—both behind the scenes and as frontliners—has truly helped them gain the support, care, and change they deserve,” Renat said.
In his keynote address, the Australian Consul-General in Lae, Mr Brenton Kanowski, spoke on the importance of partnerships and sustained support for gender equality initiatives. He emphasised: “Empowering women and girls strengthens communities. When women thrive, societies thrive, and we must all work together to ensure opportunities, protection, and equality for all. We are proud to support Femili PNG through the PNG-Australia partnership.”
Femili PNG male staff and IT Manager, Joash Emmanel, took the opportunity during this year’s International Women’s Day celebration to deliver a special presentation acknowledging his female colleagues for their outstanding leadership and performance despite challenges.
Reflecting on his experience at Femili PNG, Joash shared:
“One of the significant things I experience being with FPNG is the true potential of women. Having an organization where the top management is female, down the line we have females—women make decisions, women set up policies, women call the shots. It just proves me wrong, and I truly appreciate my female colleagues.”
He further challenged fellow male staff to embrace inclusivity, saying:
“Why don’t we men give some space to women, listen to their views and opinions, and value what they contribute to the table, rather than putting our ego first and seeing them as less important?”
The program concluded with light refreshments, providing staff and guests an opportunity to network, celebrate, and share insights on continuing the organisation’s mission of empowering women and girls throughout Papua New Guinea.
Though modest in scale, this year’s International Women’s Day event was a meaningful one, successfully highlighting Femili PNG’s ongoing commitment to empowering women, raising awareness about family and sexual violence, and promoting gender equality across the country.
during the event.
