Papua New Guinea’s premiere dance sensations, Wan Squad have again placed PNG on top! Taking out the World Hip Hop International Dance Championship 2024. The World Hip Hop Dance Championship is a pinnacle event in the world of Hip Hop dance. Witnessing electrifying performances of top-tier dance crews around the world contesting for the title. With Wan Squad’s promising start in the preliminary round securing the first spot, the guys have done it again, taking first-place finish and bagging Gold in Phoenix, Arizona, USA! Massive congratulations from Mountain Dew and the management & staff of Pacific Industries Limited to Wan Squad for finishing their preliminary round and semifinal round as Number 1! This is a resounding effort, up against 28 other teams in the semi-final, from countries all around the world: from the Philippines to Brazil, USA to Greece and Italy. Wan Squad’s accomplishment not only showcases their immense talent but has also brought immense pride to Papua New Guinea as they stood alongside the world’s finest. Mountain Dew’s unwavering support as a proud sponsor of Wan Squad, has been a driving force behind Wan Squad’s seamless journey to the competition for the last three (3) years. Wan Squad acknowledges and appreciates Mountain Dew’s continuous and invaluable support in realizing their dreams and achieving such monumental feat on the international stage.

Jacks of PNG the biggest multi-format retailer in Papua New Guinea recently became the Gold partner for ASCENSION, PNG Fashion Week’s season seven, crem de la crem show. PNG Fashion Week is in its 7th year of producing high end fashion events that market and showcase PNG’s art and culture, through the spotlight of Fashion. Jayde Ovia, Executive Assistant to the Manager Director of PNG Fashion Week stated that this partnership was essential to the growth of the fashion and textile industry in PNG. “It gives our fashion designers and cultural creatives access to the brilliance of the Jacks of PNG phenomenon.” “It is so important to have retailers in the room when we host our fashion events, and this partnership surpasses that, to not just be in the room, but to actually partner at this level is such a massive boost to the impact of the work of PNG Fashion Week.” Philma Kelegai, Managing Director of PNG Fashion Week expressed pride at the benefits the partnership will bring to designers and retailers. “We are pleased to create an incredible event that gives the opportunity for designers and retailers to meet, where ideas can flourish, and dreams can be realized.” Jack’s of PNG is an extension of Jack’s of Fiji which is a multi-award-winning family business founded and established in 1969. It's first store was launched at Waigani Central, Port Moresby, on March 30, 2015, marking its entry into the fashion retail market. Over the years, they’ve set a new standard in fashion retail by offering high-quality, well-designed clothing and accessories at affordable prices in a modern, attractive setting. Since then, they’ve expanded to five additional locations: Vision City, Mount Hagen, Madang, and Lae. Jack’s of PNG Ascension is scheduled for September during the independence weekend and will feature 13 local designers and two international designers. Tickets will be on sale by the end of the week.

The Port Moresby Nature Park was recently a grant recipient of a Climate Change and Environmental Diplomacy Project funded by the German Federal Foreign Office in Canberra, German Embassy Australia. In line with its key focus areas on Wildlife, Plants, Conservation and Research, the Park received a funding amount of €30,000 which will go towards implementing a small project designed to focus on ecological transformation, and drive awareness on climate and biodiversity in schools and communities in Port Moresby. The project titled "Love your Nature Park, protect our Biodiversity," will run for 7 months starting in the month of August 2024 and ending in March 2025. Key activities will include tree distribution, school and community outreach, an awareness campaign, rollout of a new education program, and an innovative Climate Science Fair for schools in October. The main goals of the project are to raise awareness and educate people about biodiversity conservation and ecosystems management, promote tourism through park tours and educational programs, lead afforestation and reforestation efforts in schools and communities, and establish a climate change database for Papua New Guinea's unique plant and animal species through the park’s ex-situ conservation efforts. It will emphasize the importance of working together to protect our natural world for future generations. The Port Moresby Nature Park invites all relevant stakeholders to join the campaign by supporting the project through tree planting initiatives, sponsoring prizes for the climate science fair and contributing to the awareness campaign throughout the duration of this project. As Papua New Guinea's premier attraction and charity-based organization, Port Moresby Nature Park is dedicated to preserving the country's unique flora and fauna through engaging experiences. “Our mission relies on the generous support of the public, the business community, government, and development agencies.” “By visiting the park and participating in our programs, you're not only contributing to our core functions of recreation, education, and conservation, but also promoting eco-tourism, education, and community involvement.” “Together, we can create a more sustainable future for all.”

Save the Children is excited to announce the debut of Oky Toky, a new weekly radio program aimed at empowering teenage females, in collaboration with UNICEF and the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG). Oky Toky, which is aimed towards females between the ages of 10 and 19, will cover important topics such adolescent health, puberty, child marriage, mental health, personal safety, and referral routes. The show strives to establish a secure platform for girls to learn, share stories, and access important information through interactive segments, interviews, and lively debates. Elke Puritau, Pacific Regional Operations Director for Save the Children, explained the importance and effectiveness of radio in communicating such crucial information. "Radio is a powerful tool for reaching communities across Papua New Guinea, especially in remote areas and Oky Toky will leverage this platform to provide vital information and support to adolescent girls, helping them to reach their full potential in life.” Dr. Edward Waramin, Manager for Population and Family Health Services at NDoH Oky Toky is a crucial step towards addressing the unique health challenges faced by adolescent girls in PNG . “By providing a space for open conversation and essential health information, Oky Toky will empower our young women to take control of their lives." "We believe that investing in the health and wellbeing of our young people is an investment in the future of our nation." As a component of the larger Oky PNG project, which is supported by the Australian Government, Oky Toky aims to dispel the stigma associated with menstruation and address the dearth of correct information regarding puberty, menstruation, and other health-related topics. The Oky PNG Period-Tracking Mobile Application for teenage females with smartphones and Android phones, as well as the Oky Toky Hotline Interactive Voice Response service, are also part of the project, in addition to the radio show. Congratulating the producers on their new radio show, UNICEF Country Representative Angela Kearney said that Oky Toky promised to be a very effective way to reach young people in PNG. “This is a fantastic initiative that will surely help adolescent girls get the information they need to make informed decisions about their own lives, and ultimately their own futures.” The program will air every Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. on Tribe FM, the National Broadcasting Corporation's (NBC) youth radio network, with weekend replays scheduled for all 22 provincial NBC radio stations.

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority engaged more than 500 school students at the IEA College of TAFE Education Fair, on Thursday and Friday, 1st and 2nd, August showcasing opportunities and sparking interest in the tourism industry. The Career Fair was held in Port Moresby which featured various activities created to encourage student interaction and provide insights into different industries. Students from multiple schools participated including Tokarara Secondary School, Sunrise Baptist School, Caritas Technical Secondary School, POMIS (170), Badihagwa Secondary, Dela Salle Catholic Secondary School, La Salle Technical School, Malolo International School, Zion Zeal, St. Josephs International, Butuka Academy, and Kila Secondary. Students got the chance to take part in a variety of games and drawings over the two-day event, such as Spin the Wheel, The Hoop Game, and Footy Toss. To be eligible to play these activities, students had to fill out a questionnaire encouraging them to visit different booths and ask questions to obtain information. Students enthusiastically interacted with the TPA crew, answering quiz questions about tourism in Papua New Guinea to obtain exclusive TPA items. Three laptops, one for each day, given by Theodist PNG Limited were among the major draw prizes. Held on the second day, the Mega Draw included more products from sponsoring companies such as Digicel, PNG Ports Corporation, and Hastings Deering, in addition to a laptop from Theodist. TPA’s HR Officer for Personnel, Adrin Manavutah, expressed her gratitude to the organizers of the event. "A heartfelt gratitude for the invitation and the opportunity to participate in the event. We thoroughly enjoyed marketing our company to the students.” “While many students asked questions from the provided slips, we were particularly impressed by those who asked additional questions out of curiosity.” “Our team enjoyed the interactions and engagements with the students, making these two days some of the best we’ve had in the field.” IEA College of TAFE’s Online Training Coordinator, Michaeline Stevens, conveyed her appreciation to TPA for their participation. "The event, which drew 550 students over two days, was a resounding success, and we recognize that this achievement would not have been possible without your presence and participation.” “We deeply appreciate not only your contribution to this event but also the many years of continuous support that PNG Tourism Promotion Authority has graciously extended to our college.”

Coca-Cola has secured its spot as the Diamond Sponsor and Non-Alcoholic Beverrage Partner for the 30th Enga Show that is set this weekend from 9th to 11th August 2024, making it its second consecutive year. Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Sales and Commercials Director, Tim Solly Director expressed enthusiasm for the company’s involvement, mentioning that CCEP’s commitment is stronger than ever as it celebrates the vibrant culture of the Engan people. “The show is a wonderful platform to unite, celebrate, share the Engan people’s experiences, common heritage, beliefs, and practices, and CCEP is excited to be a part of the festival.” The township of Wabag is expected to draw sizable audiences for the three-day event, which will feature an extensive exhibition of the Enga province's cultural customs. Coca-Cola takes pride in its sponsorship of the Enga show and other cultural events. It also continues to support other noteworthy provincial shows including the Morobe Agriculture Show, the Goroka Show, and the National Mask & Warwagira Festival.

Thirty (30) unique masks from Kerema District will be preserved at an Elavo (Haus) after the 20th Toare Mask Festival was successfully staged on the 3rd of August. This year's 20th Toare festival was the first to be included into the National Cultural Commissions Annual Events Calendar and for the first time to be facilitated by the Toare village with the support in facilitation. With the theme for this year “Culture in Pride to promote Peace and Harmony” most preservation of Gulfs Cultural heritage is honoured with the carvings of these masks that represents and tells a different story in each clan, villages in the province. 32 Cultural groups were showcased Infront of tourists, TPA, Total Energies and other dignitaries from both National and the Provincial Government and 30 different masks were displayed. The Mask displayed will then be saved and kept in an Elavo (sacred house) like a mini museum for Tourists to visit in the village. Total Energies Director for Corporate Affairs Richard Kassman stated that he was honoured to have attended the festival. "Total Energies have come on board two times in a row for the company to assist and work towards promoting the culture of this province Gulf.” “Our Cultural heritage is very important to keep our stories, folklore and tales all in this mask festival and history is very important for our younger generations and to withhold the knowledge of this land.” Kassman said they will continue to support as Total Energies is a French company which is one of our key focuses, on promoting and liaising within the communities we work in. Meanwhile, National Cultural Commission Research Manager Alex Puki told the people of Kerema District that this year’s Toare Mask Festival has been placed into their annual national event calendar. “We are proud to support the festival and to showcase the different cultural diversity of Gulf through its designated mask festival.” "We will continue to support the festival because it has been enlisted as a new event into our calendars.” “We encourage the people of Gulf to use this platform as an engine to drive to support and continue to uphold our culture in the province.” Minister for Petroleum and Energies and Kerema Open Member Thomas Opa presented a K20,000 to the organizing committee to boost next year's 21st showcase. Member Opa said he was excited to represent the governor of the province to be with the people to celebrate the event. Opa, while officially launching the ceremony on behalf of Provincial Executive Council, said it is important for the districts to preserve culture and for the people to use the culture and artifacts to tap into Tourism and SMEs soon. The Toare Organizing Committee appreciated and acknowledged this year’s festival boost by major sponsors Gulf Provincial Government with K50 000, K15,000 from Total Energies, National Cultural Commission with K5000 while Kerema District Development Authority (KDDA) presented a K20,000 to run the event smoothly.

Transparency International PNG (TIPNG)’ s 2024 Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption (SASWAC), which took place in both Lae and Port Moresby, saw the participation of 108 teams from the corporate and government sector, 17 Civil Society Organisations, 69 schools, and 38 families. From the generosity of these participants, TIPNG has raised a K240,500.00 through the walk against corruption. These will enable TIPNG to continue its work in promoting transparency and accountability through its programs. “I want to express TIPNG’s sincere gratitude to everyone who participated in the Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption through in-kind support, volunteering and registering to participate.” “Your collective efforts have not only contributed significantly to our financial sustainability but have also sent a powerful message of unity and determination against corruption.” The theme of 2024 Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption was “Rise to the Occasion" and positioned all Papua New Guineans as agents of change to take on the responsibility of doing what is best for the country and with a sense of urgency. The Sir Anthony Siaguru Walk Against Corruption (SASWAC) started in 2007 and is TIPNG’s major fundraising event. The goal of the Walk Against Corruption is to raise funds to support the operations of TIPNG; raise greater awareness about corruption among institutions and corporate sector and provide a peaceful avenue for citizens to express their opposition to corruption.

Central Province Governor, Rufina Peter has joined other leaders in expressing her profound condemnation of the recent massacre, rape, and destruction in Tambari village, Angoram, East Sepik Province (ESP), which occurred between July 16 and 18, 2024. Governor Peter, a staunch advocate for women's rights and safety, has called for immediate action to bring the perpetrators to justice. “As a woman and a leader, I am deeply saddened and outraged by the horrific events that transpired in Tambari village.” “The senseless violence, particularly against women and children, is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges we face in ensuring the safety and dignity of all our citizens.” To capture the culprits and bring peace and security back to the neighborhood, the governor underlined the necessity of a coordinated response from law enforcement organizations and the community. “It is imperative that we work together to find these individuals and hold them accountable for their actions. “Justice must be served to bring solace to the victims and their families.” Governor Peter highlighted the broader implications of such violence on society, particularly from a woman's perspective. “These acts of brutality undermine the very fabric of our communities.” “As women, we understand the fear and trauma that such incidents inflict on families and society.” “It is heartbreaking to see our sisters, mothers, and children subjected to such inhumanity.” She also called for increased support and resources for the survivors of the violence, urging both governmental and non-governmental organizations to provide necessary aid and counseling services. “We must ensure that the survivors receive the care and support.” “In God we can; we will transform Central Province together; they need to rebuild their lives.” “This includes medical attention, psychological counseling, and legal assistance.” In her closing remarks, Governor Peter reaffirmed her commitment to fighting for justice and advocating for stronger measures to protect victims of violence especially women and children from all types of violence. “We must stand united against such atrocities and work tirelessly to create a safer and more just society for all; our resolve to protect and uplift our communities remains unwavering.” The slaughter in Tambari was condemned by the Central Provincial Governor, which emphasizes how quickly action and unity are required in the wake of disasters like these. Nationwide, there is a resounding cry for justice and support for the survivors, serving as a constant reminder of the value of empathy, responsibility, and teamwork in the fight against violence in all its manifestations.

PNG's female flag bearer at the opening ceremony of Paris 2024, Georgia-Leigh Vele recently discovered a journal she had kept since she was eight years old. She had stated in it that her life's ambition was to compete in the Olympics and win a medal, albeit a gold one would suffice. 17 years later, on August 3, 2024, in the Paris La Defense Arena, the 8-year-old girl's written dream came true. She made a tremendous effort to fulfill her dream of being an Olympian by placing fourth in her heat of the 50-meter women's freestyle, even though she was unable to advance to the following round and win a medal. As one of the five debutants for Team PNG at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Vele powered through but fell short to qualify for the semi-finals. She swam a time of 27.61 behind Montenegro’s KULJACA (27.19), Eritrea’s RACH (27.20) and St Vincent and the Grenadines GREENE (27.23). Vele expressed that her dream to be an Olympian passed in the blink of an eye. “It felt like such a whirlwind, like in a matter of seconds it had come and gone.” “It hadn’t sunk in until about an hour later, what I had just done, but I just felt so proud of myself and what I had accomplished. Dreams, goals and prayers had all come to fruition.” Swimming Coach Rick Van Der Zant, in congratulating Vele for her efforts and courage at the Olympic Games said he was very proud of Georgia-Leigh, who has been a stalwart of the PNG swim team. Ryan Pini, Chef de Mission of Team PNG stated that Georgia-Leigh’s performance in the 50m Freestyle at the Paris 2024 Olympics was outstanding. “Her journey from an 8-year-old with a dream to an Olympian is nothing short of inspirational.” “Having personally watched Georgia-Leigh grow in this sport, I have seen her commitment and passion for swimming and to help the younger generation of swimmers back home in Papua New Guinea.” “Georgia-Leigh’s achievement is a testament to the power of perseverance and the support of our team and family.” “Congratulations, Georgia-Leigh—you have made us all incredibly proud.” Team PNG now looks forward to Morea Baru’s competition in the Men’s 61kg Weightlifting event on Thursday 7th August at 3pm (11:00pm PNG time). Athletes yet to compete are Weightlifter Morea Baru in the 61kg division on Wednesday 7th of August, followed by Taekwondo athletes Kevin Kassman in the -68kg division on Thursday 8th August and Gibson Mara in the +80kg division on Saturday 10th August.

For My Father was written with the intention of telling everyone’s story – which in my opinion did exactly that. What can I say? Excitement was already in the air as I stepped into one of the few territories of Port Moresby’s thespians – Moresby Arts Theatre. Prior to attending, I received an informal invite from the writer himself, Andrew Kuliniasi who was also part of the cast. Him being the friend who introduced me to theatre and one of the few individuals who’s influenced me to embrace performing arts, I couldn’t turn down the offer. Knowing Andrew and the kind of material he creates, I knew this show had a powerful setting and message that would resonate with all Papua New Guineans regardless of our diverse ethnicities and cultures. As expected, the play introduced the audience to a classic PNG experience, that is, a haus krai filled with financial burdens and cultural expectations. The cast used the theatre’s lounge as a performance space instead of a traditional stage which was perfect as it created a feeling of involvement between the cast and audience. I remember feeling like I was observing actual family drama violently unfold right before my eyes. For a moment I forgot that this was just a play. My mind however snapped back to the present when I noticed tears streaming down my face. That was when Andrew’s character Elisha delivered a shocking twist amidst the chaos. It was an emotionally charged experience that I still felt even after I stepped outdoors. Brief interviews from audience members followed once I stepped outside. One attendee, a young man named Jurel from Southern Highlands, admitted that it was his first time attending a live theatrical production. He did not hold back from complimenting the cast on their outstanding performances stating that the play left him speechless. Furthermore, he encouraged more Papua New Guineans to watch such productions as it depicts the gritty realities of PNG. Despite the play making references to being set in a coastal environment, aspects of the play are still relatable to him, a person from the Highlands region. His response successfully enforced the writer’s intention of telling everyone’s story regardless of who they are. As I reflect on my experience, I must admit, For My Father could potentially become one of PNG theatre’s timeless masterpieces. This play not only addresses pressing issues in the country but also challenges the underlying culture of shame towards certain subjects that permeates our traditional communities but has also seeped into modern society. An art that shows the complexities of life and human nature while also being relatable to a local audience, For My Father is truly a voice for all Papua New Guineans.

Title: For My Father Director: Ziggy Yominao Writer: Andrew Kuliniasi Rating: M17 Duration: 60minutes Actors: Emmanuel Simeon ∙ Daniel Romney ∙ Hannaniah Dickson ∙ Andrew Kuliniasi ∙ Denzel Apelis After the passing of their father, four siblings are burdened by the financial costs of haus krai, funeral and burial. Consequently, they reach out to their long-neglected, estranged half-brother who has the means to pay for it all. For My Father is a play by KnackStudios in collaboration with Dare2Create, performed at the Moresby Arts Theatre. It covers themes of physical and sexual abuse, LGBTQ+, financial hardship, youth unemployment, neglect, and family brokenness. The play artfully blends realism and naturalistic style purposefully to enable the performance to be relatable to a Papua New Guinean audience while also addressing the gritty realities of life. The production uses the theatre’s lounge as a performance space instead of the traditional stage which not only gives the audience a feeling of involvement but also gives an advantage to the setting of the entire living room scene. For My Father stands out among most plays I’ve watched, because it’s a play written by Papua New Guineans for Papua New Guineans. Despite most of the cast being young, their ability to present the complexities of life and the condition of human nature while experiencing grief was masterfully executed. Each actor excelled in portraying their respective characters. Each character is unique with their own personal struggles and backstories which make the play all the more captivating. Michael Katau (Denzel Apelis) is the eldest half-brother who lives overseas and is the most successful out of all his siblings; Elisha Katau (Andrew Kuliniasi) is a member of the LGBTQ+ community who engages in prostitution to provide for his siblings; Braxton Katau (Daniel Romney) is a pastor concerned for his father’s and siblings’ spiritual well-being; Benny Katau (Immanuel Simeon) is the unemployed brother who hangs around with a bad crowd; and Anita Katau (Hannaniah Dickson) is the youngest and also their father’s favorite. Despite each character being so different from one another, audiences can still find something to relate to. For My Father was written with the intention to tell every individual’s story which in my opinion was successfully done. The average Papua New Guinean may not relate to Elisha’s story, but they can relate to Benny and his struggle of living as an unemployed youth. Others may relate to Michael’s feeling of abandonment by parental figures and also his drive to become successful. Whatever the circumstance, the play will tell someone’s story directly or indirectly – through words, actions, emotions or situations. I encourage more Papua New Guineans to watch For My Father. It is both a realistically and emotionally driven play that will leave you crying tears of laughter, sadness, anguish and bitterness.