Our CEO, Phillie Julai Marai, represented the Pacific Australian Youth Association (PAYA) at the Yumi Stap Wantaim – PNG and Australia International Relations Short Course Program, held in Melbourne from 27 September to 1 October 2026.
She participated in the program from Day 1 to Day 3, contributing to discussions on shared history, Indigenous knowledge, community development, diplomacy and the future of PNG–Australia relations. She also delivered a keynote address at the AAPNG Short Course in Melbourne, bringing a youth leadership perspective to the broader conversation.
Understanding Our Shared History and Cultural Connections
The first three days of the program provided an opportunity to reflect on the historical and cultural connections between Papua New Guinea and Australia, including the significance of First Peoples, Indigenous knowledge and the longstanding connections across the Torres Strait.
Discussions highlighted the importance of understanding our shared history, acknowledging different experiences and building relationships grounded in mutual respect.
They also reinforced that education should recognise Indigenous knowledge alongside Western education systems, helping bridge gaps in understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Community-Led Development and Grassroots Leadership
The program also challenged participants to consider what development means and who should define it.
Discussions on development assistance, community ownership and grassroots leadership reinforced the importance of ensuring that development responds to local needs, values and aspirations.
For Phillie, these conversations resonated with the importance of community-led development and accountable leadership in Papua New Guinea.
Sustainable progress requires us to recognise the strengths within our communities, preserve valuable cultural knowledge and selectively adopt external approaches that support our development priorities.
Strengthening Cross-Border Relationships and Diplomacy
The third day explored the Torres Strait Treaty, border relationships and the connections between Papua New Guinea and Australia.
Discussions considered how sovereignty, security, culture and environmental concerns intersect with the lives of communities on both sides of the border.
The sessions also explored sports diplomacy and the role of dialogue in bringing people together across cultural and national boundaries.
These conversations highlighted opportunities for greater youth engagement, knowledge exchange and collaboration between our two countries.
Advancing Youth Leadership in PNG–Australia Relations
Through her participation and keynote address, Phillie contributed to conversations about the importance of leadership, cultural understanding and stronger people-to-people relationships between Papua New Guinea and Australia.
For PAYA, this engagement reinforces the value of creating opportunities for young leaders to participate in regional dialogue, connect with institutions and organisations, and explore practical ways to strengthen cooperation across the Pacific.
