After launching the 14th Edition of the Pride of PNG Women Awards in early May 2026, CPL Foundation Inc. Is pleased to announce the conclusion of the nominations and judging period, and the selection of our category finalists.
Delivered biennially with founding Partner, Post Courier, and Patron of the Awards, His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, GCL, GCMG, KStJ, Governor-General of Papua New Guinea, the Awards recognize exceptional Papua New Guinean Women whose leadership and service have made a significant impact on their Communities and the Nation.
After receiving close to 100 applications nationwide, 18 Outstanding Women have been selected by our esteemed panel of Category Judges as finalists across the 6 Award Categories, namely:
Health & Wellbeing Award – recognizing grassroots leadership in improving community health and awareness.
- Aileen Zuhukepe from Port Moresby, NCD
- Julie Job Neven from Porgera, Enga Province
- Sr. Bolena Azimo from Okiufa, Eastern Highlands Province
Rising Star Award – recognizing young women aged 25 years and under who demonstrate leadership and inspire positive change.
- Theresa So’on from Port Moresby, NCD
- Chie Soli from Laloki, Central Province
- Chelsea Paspalau from Lae, Morobe Province
Bravery & Courage Award – recognizing women who show exceptional courage in protecting others or standing up against injustice.
- Emma Minimbi from Mt. Hagen, Western Highlands Province
- Miriam Francis from Mutzing, Morobe Province
- Irene Tehana from Sohano Island, Autonomous Region of Bougainville
Enterprise & Innovation Award – recognizing women who create economic opportunities through resourcefulness, initiative, and business leadership.
- Diane Mirio from Kimbe, West New Britain Province
- Julie Rereve from Buka, Autonomous Region of Bougainville
- Vinivia Kuie from Port Moresby, NCD
Care & Compassion Award – recognizing women who support vulnerable or disadvantaged members of their communities.
- Dorothy Lamin Koch from Port Moresby, NCD
- Sheillah Owade from Port Moresby, NCD
- Joan Luek from Lae, Morobe Province
Knowledge & Skills Award – recognizing women who expand opportunities by sharing knowledge, building practical skills, and supporting others to improve their lives and shape better futures.
- Theresa Oma Gende from Madang, Madang Province
- Elizabeth Philip-Siem from Wewak, East Sepik Province
- Emma Oliver from Kokopo, East New Britain Province
“The overwhelming support from individuals, organizations, and communities in submitting nominations highlights the growing recognition of the many women who are championing positive change and making a meaningful impact across Papua New Guinea”, said Deborah Alois, CPL Foundation Inc. Manager.
“We are excited to connect with our finalists as we prepare to celebrate their stories of leadership, resilience, and service at the Awards Gala in Port Moresby soon’.
The 2026 Awards will be held on the 29th of August 2026, at the Hilton Hotel Port Moresby, the Program’s Official Event Partner. All Finalists will be flown in by the Program’s Airline Partner, Air Niugini, and celebrated on the evening, with a winner for each category awarded.
The Pride of PNG Women Awards is supported by the Post Courier, Air Niugini, Hilton Hotel Port Moresby, ExxonMobil PNG and CPL Group.
