Pawa Meri: Role Models to Inspire

2014 · Documentary

Pawa Meri (Powerful Women) is a six-part documentary series portraying the lives of six Papua New Guinean women who have each achieved extraordinary things in life. The women come from diverse backgrounds and represent a variety of themes relevant to development in PNG.

Episodes

▶1. Save Meri Skulim MeriSave Meri Skulim Meri tells how Susil Nelson, an accountant based in Port Moresby works in a largely male dominated profession. She has also been supporting and inspiring young girls to receive an education and develop their careers. Hers is an uplifting story of how family support, hard work and perseverance can have a positive effect for the country.▶2. Never Give UpNever Give Up is a moving story of community worker Gina Baidam from the Western Province who is determined to bring a birthing facility to her community in Severimambu on the Fly River. As community members describe the struggle that pregnant mothers face in this remote community Gina takes the lead in finding assistance to improve their situation.▶3. Voice of ChangeVoice of Change is set on Bougainville, an autonomous region of Papua New Guinea (PNG) coming out of a 10-year civil war. Humanitarian Sr. Lorraine lived through the crisis emerging as a mediator to promote peace and reconciliation. Now she leads the Nazarene Centre assisting individuals and families with their daily struggles, as Bougainville is not just rebuilding infrastructure but its people.▶4. LapanLapan is a film about Miriam Potopi, one of the first female village magistrates in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Miriam's charismatic personality and understanding of cultural laws and protocols make her a respected leader in her community. The film captures the many challenges Miriam has overcome in her life.▶5. Meri MarkhamMeri Markham takes us on a journey with Jenifer Baing Waiko. The film describes Jenifer's return to her community as a woman who has been educated overseas but has not forgotten her roots. Meri Markham follows her journey to stand for the 2012 Markham Open Election.▶6. Yu Ken MekimYu Ken Mekim is a story that resonates with many Papua New Guinean women going into business. It is a glimpse into the motivations, heart-aches and sacrifices women experience when deciding to do business. Rita Kare sold food on the streets of Goroka and now successfully runs the Steakhaus Restaurant. The film explores Rita's and her husband Peter's journey of fulfilling their dream.

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