CBC PNGSI Headquarters: The Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (CBC PNGSI) celebrated International Women’s Day on Friday, March 7, 2025, under the theme "Moving Forward Together."
The celebration honored the contributions of women in the organization and across the country, highlighting their resilience, empowerment, and role in shaping society.
The event featured a cake-cutting ceremony as a gesture of appreciation for the hardworking female staff of CBC PNGSI. Short yet impactful speeches were delivered by Ms. Stephanie Gerep (Child Protection Officer), Ms. Christalyn Sowi (National Catholic Education Officer), and Mrs. Christine Tsuga (Chaplaincy Commission Secretary), reflecting on the significance of womanhood in Papua New Guinea and the ongoing challenges faced by women.
Secretary for Social Communications Sr Daisy Anne Lisania Augstine MSC opened the mini program with a word of prayer before Ms. Gerep shared the history of International Women’s Day, reinforcing the importance of gender equality and respect—encouraging everyone to strive above all odds and support one another.
Emphasizing the question, "What does it mean to be a female in PNG?" Ms. Sowi, as the second speaker, prompted many to define womanhood within the context of our nation. PNG’s rich cultural diversity means that our thoughts and actions are often shaped by our cultural backgrounds, which form our identities.
“As a woman of this generation, responding to this question is both challenging and enlightening. It influences the way I think, especially in my role as a female and its impact on those around me,” said Ms. Sowi.
“It also raises questions about my honesty in fulfilling my responsibilities as a sibling and a woman, my embodiment of feminine qualities, and my appreciation of cultural values, which give me a sense of belonging and identity as a female in PNG.”
Concluding the speeches, Ms. Tsuga shared her thoughts on PNG women and the law-and-order sector in Papua New Guinea, highlighting that “Women in Papua New Guinea (PNG) face serious problems with law and order, especially gender-based violence (GBV).”
Beyond the speeches, several other female staff members took the time to share their views on the question, "What does it mean to be female in PNG?"
Kelma Ragina Babona, CBC PNGSI Documentation Officer, spoke about the strength and adaptability of women in PNG, saying, “I am blessed to be a woman from Papua New Guinea.
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