PNG EncounterFirst Supports Wildlife Youth with Rugby League Jersey

PNG EncounterFirst, a non-profit organization, presented a full set of jerseys to the Southern Sons Rugby League Club, and also presented a Certificate of Appreciation to the players after a five-week Youth Empowerment Program in Wildlife, Port Moresby North-East Electorate.

Over the past five weeks, young people in the community took part in sessions focused on building trust, encouraging personal growth, and tackling real-life challenges, such as peer pressure, alcohol abuse, and struggles at home. 

Through PNG EncounterFirst team’s guidance and mentorship, the program instilled values of discipline, leadership, and teamwork, helping participants develop essential life skills and a positive mindset. 

PNG EncounterFirst Program Coordinator Malon Pirisa presented the jerseys and Certificate of Appreciation to the players, including the youth, who participated in the five-week empowerment program.

“On behalf of PNG EncounterFirst, I had the honor of presenting the new sets of jerseys and rugby league balls to the Southern Sons Rugby League Club, as well as the Certificate of Appreciation,” Pirisa said.

“It might seem small, but moments like that meant a lot for our team and the boys. We could see how excited they were, especially to participate in the 9s competition, which gave them a real boost.

“The timing was meaningful as the team is set to participate in the Zion Zeal 9s tournament starting today. The new jerseys have not only boosted their confidence but also strengthened their team spirit.

“Our aim this year is to reach more communities where young people are facing challenges. We are committed to delivering this program wherever it is needed and continuing to inspire change, build resilience, and empower the next generation.

“I extend our heartfelt thanks to the club, the youth, the people behind the scenes, and the wider community for their active participation and for embracing this movement. I’m really grateful to see our Youth Empowerment  Program at Wildlife come to an end on such a positive note.”

Coordinator Pirisa added that it was pleasing to see the program having an impact on the community, and also acknowledged Ase Boas’ presence in encouraging the youth and empowering them to embrace change. 

“For me, the most powerful part was seeing the shift in their mindset. You could see the change, not just in how they spoke, but in how they carried themselves. There was more confidence, more focus, and a better sense of direction,” he said. 

“Hearing from youths who had gone through our program before was also something special. Their stories were honest and relatable, and we could see that connection with the others. 

“We were also lucky to have Ase Boas, former PNG Hunters and PNG Kumuls captain, who came and spoke to the boys. His message was simple but strong.”  

The Southern Sons Rugby League Club expressed its sincere appreciation to PNG EncounterFirst for delivering a truly life-changing program, with many of the youth sharing powerful testimonies and highlighting how the initiative has helped them turn away from negative influences and make better choices for their future.

Club representative Jobby Karepa also acknowledged the program's impact, stating that the club looks forward to partnering with PNG EncounterFirst in future initiatives to continue supporting and empowering young people.

With a new jersey donation from PNG EncounterFirst, the Southern Sons Rugby League Club looks forward to competing in the three-day Zion Zeal 9s tournament at Waigani’s Kone Tigers Oval and making the sponsor and their community proud.