UN Women announces Jay Lieasi as Youth Champion

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – UN Women today announced the appointment of American-born, Papua New Guinean-raised Hip Hop sensation Jay Lieasi as Youth Champion to raise awareness on safe city for women and girls, ahead of 25 November International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

Photo: Curtesty of Jay Lieasi

Best known for his riveting performances as an international Hip Hop star, Jay will dedicate his efforts as UN Women’s Youth Champion for towards inspiring young people to stand together to make the city of Port Moresby safe for women and girls and will serve as an advocate for UN Women’ and the National Capital District’s #SANAPWANTAIM (it is translated as “stand together”) campaign.

“We are thrilled and honoured to work with Jay, whom we believe embodies the values of our campaign,” said UN Women Papua New Guinea Representative Dr. Jeffery Buchanan. “The engagement of young people is critical for the advancement of rights of women and girls in the country of Papua New Guinea, and Jay’s tremendous passion will inspire young people across the country to see and start to live a new future where women and girls are safe to live their lives with dignity.”

"Being asked to join UN Women as a Youth Champion in their work to make Port Moresby safe for women and girls is truly humbling. The chance to make a real difference in my native country of Papua New Guinea is something I take very seriously and feel deeply personal about. The future of this country stands in the hands of our youth and let youth be a part of the solution,” said Mr. Lieasi.

Mr. Lieasi is the first Youth Champion appointment under Dr. Buchanan’s leadership in Papua New Guinea.