There are many, but here are three inspiring examples of young Papua New Guineans making a mark through UN-supported initiatives:
1. Hallilah Nakumai – Agricultural Innovator
A graduate in Sustainable Tropical Agriculture, Hallilah led the creation of the SISIDA Cooperative Society in East Sepik, transforming three villages through integrated farming. With support from the EU-STREIT Programme (led by FAO, ITU, UNCDF, UNDP), she helped build over 50 fish ponds and introduced cocoa and vanilla farming, benefiting over 100 farmers.
2. Mevlyn Morrisson – Youth Educator
At just 21, Mevlyn took a gap year from her Law studies at UPNG to tutor “second chance” students in Port Moresby. Her work at Asia-Pacific Multicultural College, supported by UNICEF, focuses on empowering youth through education and mentorship.
3. Abigail Havora & Bronwyn Kili – Global Youth Advocates
These two young women represented PNG at the UN ECOSOC Youth Forum in New York. They advocated for youth participation in the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and returned home to raise awareness about climate action, gender equality, and waste management.