Hannah Kuwimb pilots WiLead Change Program in Hela’s Magarima District

An experienced basketball campaigner, Hannah Kuwimb, recently ran a six-day FIBA Oceania Women in Leadership (WiLead) initiative in the Highlands in partnership with the PNG Basketball Federation through the Basketball for Good Program.

Ninety-three participants (ages 10–25) from the 5 Lower Waghi LLG Wards of Hela Province’s Magarima District joined the Hoops for Hope initiative, led by Kuwimb, the WiLead emerging leader.

The WiLead coordinator mentioned that the turnout was overwhelming, and the participants showed keen interests and hunger for learning, wanting to see change in their communities.

“The participants showed great eagerness to learn and have shown commitment through their attendance, and also through how they have displayed what they have learned,” Kuwimb stressed.

“Being in the WiLead and representing PNG in 2025, and also a representative in the Highlands, I have been given the opportunity to conduct this program to put into practice what leadership means.

“This has been a powerful platform for empowering youths and helping our communities embrace positive life choices.

“The six-day program gave me a clear picture of how basketball magic works in changing lives. With ongoing support, we can build a generation of confident, informed, and empowered young leaders.”

Despite facing obstacles, especially in terms of limited funding support, Kuwimb said she and her team are utilizing whatever resources they have to reach more young people and deliver consistent programs.

She strongly recommends that this program be delivered annually until the communities are fully confident in making positive life choices, understand the rules and pathways in basketball, and develop solid skills that can help them grow both on and off the court.

Hoops for Hope PNG is a Basketball program in partnership with BFPNG through Basketball for Good Program. This milestone, celebrated by BFPNG under the FIBA Oceania WiLead initiative, is a big step for youth empowerment and women’s leadership in PNG basketball.