From Student to Teacher: Josepha Wailoni Leads Gender Leadership Session at OAA Congress

Papua New Guinea Athletics Vice President Mrs. Josepha Wailoni has come full circle in her leadership journey, leading a Gender Leadership session at the recent Oceania Athletics Association (OAA) Congress in Rarotonga, Cook Islands, just months after she was a participant in the same course.

Wailoni, a respected educator in Papua New Guinea’s, first engaged with the Gender Leadership program during a session held in Townsville in collaboration with Athletics North Queensland. Her rapid progression from participant to facilitator is a testament to her commitment to giving back and fostering leadership in the Pacific.

“I was invited to come to the Congress and facilitate the session,” she said. “I thought it would be a good opportunity to contribute to the organisation and support others on their leadership path.”

Reflecting on her transition from student to teacher, Wailoni described the experience as an opportunity to serve. “It’s a way forward and a chance to support the training of other Pacific Islanders, giving back to Oceania, which has invested in us. I’m grateful for the trust and belief that some of us can now step up, help, and give back.”

As both an educator and facilitator, Wailoni emphasized the value of lifelong learning. “Learning never stops. When people contribute, they enhance their own learning. And when you deliver, you help others learn too. What they say helps improve your own delivery. Everyone brings their own expertise.”

She also had a strong message for aspiring leaders across the Pacific: “I want to encourage as many women and men as possible, especially those who doubt their capabilities, to keep an open mind. When the opportunity comes, or when God calls, we say yes, we move, and we do the best we can.”

The Gender Leadership session is part of OAA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen leadership across the region and was a featured component of the 2025 Congress in Rarotonga