Team Up PNG Extends Global Activism Through Sport

Team Up Sports in Port Moresby concluded the 20 Days of Activism campaign yesterday (10th November) at the Taurama Aquatic Indoor Centre, marking International Human Rights Day with a powerful celebration of inclusion, equality, and safeguarding through sport.

While the global movement traditionally observes 16 Days of Activism, Team Up partners in Papua New Guinea extended the campaign to 20 days, launching on November 20th and concluding yesterday. This localized approach reflected PNG’s commitment to amplifying voices, challenging barriers, and promoting respect and dignity through sport.  

The closing event, led by Team Up partners under the Sports for Development portfolio, featured interactive activities, the screening of a human rights documentary, and a celebration lunch honoring the contributions of community coaches, volunteers, and advocates.  

Supported by the Australian Government through Team Up, the campaign highlighted sport as a powerful platform for advancing equality, safeguarding, and inclusion across Papua New  Guinea.  

Across 20 days, the campaign aligned with major global and local observances, including the International Children’s Day, Women Human Rights Defenders Day, the NCD Redvember Walk Against Violence, International Volunteers Day, World AIDS Day, and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, championed by Team Up partners Basketball for Good, NRL League Bilon Laif, Inclusive GymBad, One Netball, Pilai lo Senis, and Hooking In For Health. 

Mrs. Lua Rikis, speaking at the closing, captured the spirit of the campaign and highlighted its importance.   

“This is more than just an event; it is a celebration of our collective achievements and a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to inclusion, equality, and safeguarding through sport,” she stated. 

“Over the past 20 days, we have stood together to amplify voices, challenge barriers, and promote respect and dignity for all. 

“Today, we close the year with strength and unity, recognizing that every effort, whether big or small, has contributed to creating safer, more inclusive spaces where sport becomes a powerful tool for change. 

“Thank you for being here, for your passion, and for your unwavering commitment. Together, we are not just changing the game, we are changing lives.”  

The conclusion of the campaign was both a celebration of progress and a call to action – reinforcing the commitment to build a sporting culture that empowers youth, women, and persons with disabilities across Papua New Guinea.