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Leadership Session Inspires the Next Generation of PNG Leaders

A leadership session hosted by Nicholas Gamuna, a final-year Social Work student and President of the Gamuna Foundation, and Mackeilla Solomon Maniura, a third-year PNG and International Studies student and youth development advocate, inspired and encouraged Grade 12 students of Madang Christian Academy.

The session was held at the Sir Peter Barter Auditorium (SPBA) at Divine Word University as part of the second day's program of the US Embassy Diplomacy Team Visit to Divine Word University’s American Corner.

Speaking to the students, Ms. Maniura, highlighted the importance of the American Corner as a place where young people can broaden their understanding and develop their thinking beyond their immediate surroundings.

“The American Corner is a space to extend your knowledge and thinking capacity of the outside world, giving us the opportunity to expand our knowledge in the educational space.”

Mr. Gamuna, encouraged the Grade 12 students to recognize that leadership begins with their everyday actions and choices. He emphasized that young people do not need to wait for a formal position or title to make a difference in their families and communities.

“Leadership starts with you. It begins in your family, your community, and in the everyday choices and decisions you make. Being a leader and making a difference in your community simply means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”

The session reflected the importance of investing in PNG’s younger generation by encouraging students to think beyond the present, take responsibility for their choices and recognize their potential to contribute positively to their communities.

As Papua New Guinea continues to experience generational change, conversations such as these provide young people with opportunities to learn from advocates, broaden their perspectives and develop the confidence to become responsible leaders of tomorrow.