Nine executive members of the Papua New Guinea Women in Maritime Association have completed leadership training to strengthen governance and advocacy for women across PNG’s maritime sector.
The qualification, delivered through Australia’s support and the PNG Institute of Directors, gives PNGWIMA’s executive team new skills in decision-making, risk management, governance and organisational leadership.
“From an operational side, we deal with risk every day. This course helped me understand it at an organisational level,” said Ruth Philip, PNG’s second female marine pilot. “It changed how I manage risk, not just for myself, but to look out for my colleagues as well.
” PNGWIMA President Ms Beverly Nelson said the training will help the association better represent members and encourage more women into the industry.
“Through the association, we are looking at how we can encourage the participation of women in the maritime sector. This training helped our executives understand how we can better represent our members and create an inclusive space for women from different backgrounds to work together,” Ms Nelson said.
The program also supports PNGWIMA to finalise its constitution and drive initiatives to increase women in leadership roles. Ms Isabella Kila, who is helping review the constitution, said it lays a foundation for future women leaders.
“We are starting to see more women on boards and executive teams, and more people with disabilities included on merit. This training lays a strong foundation for those who come after us,” Ms Kila said.
Women currently make up about 15 per cent of PNG’s maritime workforce but hold few senior positions.
Australia supported the re-establishment of PNGWIMA in March this year to bring together professionals and advance opportunities for women.
Australia is also partnering with PNG to modernise port infrastructure, strengthen maritime safety and improve access to economic opportunities.
With the new training complete, PNGWIMA says it is now better placed to support members and encourage more women to take on leadership roles across the maritime industry.
