Team Up PNG Marks International Women Human Rights Defenders Day with Bomana Sports Empowerment Program

To commemorate the International Women Human Rights Defenders Day on 29th November 2025, Team Up PNG - an Australian Government initiative - partnered with Bomana Correctional Services to host a special sports day at the Bomana Women’s Division.

The event brought together 63 female inmates and more than 20 female correctional officers, celebrating the role of women as human rights defenders and highlighting the transformative power of sport in driving social change.

Sports development officers, including correctional wardens, were recognized as human rights defenders who create safe spaces, foster dignity, and empower women through sport. By engaging inmates in structured sporting activities, the program reinforced values of teamwork, resilience, and inclusion.

“This program shows that sport is more than just physical activity - it is a pathway to hope, dignity, and positive change. Our female inmates and officers are reminded that they are part of a wider community of women defenders who stand for human rights every day,” said Chief Inspector Iuki Gerason, Welfare Division, Bomana Correctional Services.

This initiative reflects Team Up PNG’s commitment to advancing gender equality, community empowerment, and human rights through sport. It also underscores the importance of partnerships between government, correctional services, and community organizations in creating safe and inclusive environments for women.

Team Up PNG is part of the Australian Government’s sport for development program across the Pacific. It works with local partners to use the power of sport to promote gender equality, social inclusion, and community empowerment.

The programs include Pilai lo Senis, Hooking in for Health, Basketball for Good, NRL League Blo Laif, One Netball, Hero Athlete, Kicks for Kokoda, Just Play Soccer, Inclusive GymBad, and Inclusion Impact Rugby Program, each designed to harness sport as a tool for positive transformation.