In the words of Sophia Teio: “Real change for women and girls starts with empathy, courage and community support.”

Author: Mahmudul Karim

Sophia Teio is a participant in the Sanap Wantaim Campaign, Tok Pisin for ‘Stand Together’ – a youth campaign and national initiative led by UN Women in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The campaign focuses on ending gender-based violence by challenging negative social norms and fostering collective responsibility across genders and generations. It mobilizes youth volunteers, community leaders and institutions to promote respectful relationships, gender equality and safer public spaces. With strong emphasis on peer outreach, workshops and community-driven dialogue, Sanap Wantaim empowers young people to become champions of change and strengthens referral pathways for survivors of violence. Teio recently spoke about her experience at the National Women’s Political Participation Forum, held on 3–4 December 2025 in Port Moresby.

I speak today not just for myself, but for the thousands of young women in our country who are fighting for a future where they can lead, learn and live free from violence and discrimination. I am Sophia Teio, 28 years old, from Morobe Province in Papua New Guinea (PNG). I am a passionate youth leader and advocate for gender equality and youth empowerment.

Growing up, I saw the strength of our women and the barriers they face. In many parts of PNG, young women still struggle to access education, leadership roles and economic opportunities. But I also saw the power of youth. When young people, especially young women, are empowered, it can positively transform society. That belief led me to where I am today.

In 2018, I joined the UN Women’s Sanap Wantaim campaign. That was a turning point in my life. Through this initiative, I received mentorship and training from UN Women, as well as a platform to lead. I learned how to design community projects that respond to the needs of women and girls. I began working with mothers and young women, helping them see their potential, contribute to their families and build safer, more empowered communities.

I have represented Pacific youth at forums like the Pacific Islands Forum and the 68^th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68) in New York, which was more than an honour. It proved that our voices matter. I stood on those global stages to make sure the world hears us. Pacific women and girls have knowledge, courage and solutions. What we need is space and support.

In PNG, gender-based violence, early marriage and limited access to education are still widespread cultural expectations that often silence girls’ voices. But through the Sanap Wantaim Youth Network, I continue to work toward creating positive change. I organize leadership workshops, mentorship programmes and dialogues where young women share their stories, learn and lead.

I have facilitated several workshops on women empowerment that have helped many girls realize their potential and see new possibilities for themselves. By the end of the workshop, girls who had never spoken in public were setting goals and launching community initiatives, like helping schoolgirls return to school after pregnancy. That’s the power of sisterhood and support.

Being part of the Sanap Wantaim campaign helped me find my voice. And I’m using it to amplify others. I’ve learned that real change for women and girls starts with empathy, courage and community support. Every girl who finds her strength permits others to do the same.

My message to every girl in PNG who feels unheard: Your story matters. Your voice matters. Start where you are. Speak your truth. We are listening. And we are rising together.”

Sophia has actively engaged in national and international leadership platforms through the support of Women Make the Change and Sanap Wantaim. She attended the National Women in Leadership Forum in Papua New Guinea, participated in the 68th Commission on the Status of Women in New York, and joined the Intergenerational Dialogue in Fiji under Women Make the Change, a joint programme of UN Women and UNDP supported by the Government of Australia.

Today, Sophia serves as the Executive Director of the youth-led NGO Young Leaders Alliance Inc., based in Lae, Papua New Guinea, where she advances youth leadership and inclusive participation. She also serves as the National Female Youth Delegate to the Commonwealth Youth Council, advocating for gender equality and meaningful youth engagement at the regional and global levels.