10 years of PNG change makers: 2020 Archer Reignite Conference
The extraordinary young men and women selected to take part in KTF’s Archer Leader Development Program are a special breed indeed. They are passionate about their communities, their country and the role they play in its future.
10 years of these PNG change makers - 45 in total - gathered in Port Moresby for our third annual Archer Reignite Conference for two days of inspiration, learning, problem solving and fun. Co-designed and co-facilitated by the Archer Alumni in this year like no other, the conference’s aim is to strengthen their network and skills to work together to improve lives and futures in PNG. This year it certainly delivered, with an incredible program of speakers from PNG and Australia, in person and via Zoom.
In 2020 “The world as we know it has changed”; what better theme to be explored by Assistant Police Commissioner Joanne Clarkson - PNG’s most senior female police officer - and Kina Bank CEO, Greg Pawson. Together, they addressed adaptive change and leadership during times of uncertainty, posing the questions:
“What do we hold on to, what do we need to leave behind?”
Inspiration also came from the extraordinary Ruth Kissam, women’s and human rights advocate, and Ganjiki Wayne, lawyer, speaker and coach. To channel Ruth’s wonderful reflection,
“These young leaders are the future of this nation and their thoughts will determine the decisions they make as leaders. Impacting thought leaders with positive words and provoking them to think outside their comfort zones will compel them to search for answers for difficult social issues facing this country today. Owning the fact that they're Melanesians, an ancient people, creative, ingenious, innovative and thrived in a structured society for thousands of years. Ours is a society that is older than democracy itself but thrived on consensus by striking a balance that was inclusive of everyone in that society. We need to own our history to capture a future that is bright for all.”
Unpacking what drives entrepreneurial thinking and success was the amazing Julz Heneo, award-winning chef and entrepreneur and Simon Doble, CEO of SolarBuddy and Barefoot Citizens. And recognising that times of uncertainty can bring personal challenges, they delved into well-being and self-care through periods of change with Dr Jasmine Green from Changeways Psychology.
The group walked with the KTF team on their journey this year, exploring change and adaption in action; and celebrated the extraordinary work of our Archer Reignite Grant recipients, who are in the final stages of building a marketplace for women to sell their market vegetables in Salamaua, Morobe, and preparing for new projects in 2021.
The future is indeed so very bright; even in these times of uncertainty and turmoil, we are as optimistic as ever and inspired by the strength of the next generation. Maisy Lus, 2019 Archer captures why,
“You never leave these conferences thinking the same way. Different topics relating to leadership, with the help of our amazing facilitators and guest speakers, get flipped on their head and you are challenged to question the way you think about things - including controversial topics. Brilliant questions from the Archer Alumni directed to our guest speakers and their responses gave us an insight to their leadership styles and how they led during this very difficult year.
“Speakers had their stories to tell, but what made me lean in were stories of their journeys, the values they stood by and their unique character traits that helped them overcome their personal challenges. I found these very inspiring. Conferences such as this bring to focus the inspiring side of humanity, but it also made me realise, you don’t necessarily need conferences to feel inspired, just taking a moment to appreciate the positive side of people and finding out about their stories “behind the scenes” can inspire you as well!”
To our extraordinary facilitator, Terri Soller from Conversus Leaders, we give heartfelt thanks for the journey and path you create for us, alongside our incredible Archer co-facilitators - Methuselah Wabiria, Debbie Akane, Jerome Sesega, Lydia Dimokari, Perryson Miori, Bruno Siare and Samantha Mosoro.
Our deepest thanks to our generous conference supporters - Mundango Abroad. We recognise and are grateful for your amazing commitment to leadership in PNG. Thank you to our partners Airways Hotel for your extremely generous in-kind support; and to our generous donors of the annual leadership program - Fred P Archer Trust (Perpetual Trustees) and Newcrest Mining.
In a year where adaptive leadership is needed more than ever, we are thrilled to have been able to deliver the Archer Conference - across borders and with a difference.