Papua New Ginean U-20 Women’s Team Stands Together to Create a New Normal for Women and Girls

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – The Papua New Guinean U-20 Women’s Team joined UN Women today in launching their campaign #SANAPWANTAIM:  the New Normal.

Led by Captain Yvonne Gabong, the team stood together with Hip Hop sensation and newly appointed UN Women Youth Campion, Jay Lieasi to announce their vision of new normal in the city of Port Morseby.

UN Woman/Lizzy te Soria

“Dynamic, determined young women like Yvonne and her teammates are important role models for young women and men everywhere. They demonstrate the power of standing together. They understand the strength a team carries in overcoming challenges,” said UN Women Papua New Guinea Representative Dr. Jeffery Buchanan.

"There was no question about our bringing our entire team to support this campaign,” said Ms. Gabong. “Women’s equality is something we all feel extremely passionately about. There is a new normal growing in our country: one where women will be safe to walk by themselves, and live their dreams.  We want to be a part of that - we want to be part of the positive force that is driving forward women and girls. This is our future!” she added.

Governor of Port Moresby, the Honorable Powes Parkop stated: “Peace is indispensable to the well being and prosperity of our nation at a personal and community level. Women are half the country and when they are able to live and fulfill their dreams in safety, we can have quality lives and secure a prosperous future.  Women's rights are human rights. To be free of violence, fear and harassment is a constitutional right of all not just a goal for women and girls. Let us take action today to bring back peace in our city, in our streets, in our homes and in our country!”

The PNG U-20 Women’s team is on their way to New Zealand for their last training games before their first match of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup on 13 November.

UN Woman/Lizzy te Soria