The PNG Netball Federation has announced a new president and Board in an official hand over of their administration in a media conference earlier today.
Ulato Avei takes over from outgoing president Julienne Maliaki-Leka, who has served as head of the organization since 2010.
On hand as well were members of the PNG Olympic Committee, PNG Sports Foundation Reps and other stake holders and partners.
Maliaki- Leka took on the role in 2010 and has served PNG Netball for 9 years to date.
Maliaki-Leka in her farewell speech said, her leadership has been one of a challenging but rewarding journey and reflected on a number of key priority areas that she said were important, urging its continued focus for the incumbent president with her board members.
“the last 5 years, my management has been centred on building a strong foundation for Netball PNG going forward.”
“We produced a Strategic Plan that aims at enhanced collaboration and growth within the PNG Netball Community. This is a 5-year plan and I challenge the new board to implement in operationalizing Netball.”
Incoming President Avei acknowledged the work Leka contributed to PNG Netball as a woman leader and pledged to implement the plans as part of her role as president-elect.
Stating that the outgoing President deserved credit for bringing Netball PNG thus far.
The new president noted that financial challenge was one of the main issues that have distressed Netball PNG for decades and she plans change this as she pledges to establish a means of sustainable income for the code in the country.
With a sustainable income, Avei believes there is much to be achieved.
In witnessing the hand-over, PNG Olympics Committee Secretary General, Auvita Rapilla, applauded Leka in demonstrating professionalism saying her approach to the change was a show of the quality of leader she was, congratulating her for her efforts in bringing PNG Netball thus far.
