The Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) proudly participated in the Youth Resource Week (YRW) 2025, a dynamic five-day event held from March 24th to 28th at the Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby. This impactful event, organized collaboratively by government agencies, partners, and stakeholders, brought together over 15,000 registered youths who were given access passes to engage with life-changing opportunities in education, employment, financial services, and skills training.
CEFI’s participation was made possible through an invitation extended by Mr. John Pora, a key organizer of the event. Recognizing the significance of financial literacy in youth empowerment, CEFI took the initiative to invite and host 10 other organizations within the financial inclusion space, ensuring a comprehensive representation of financial institutions and services. The participating organizations included:
- Credit Guarantee Corporation
- Credit Data Bureau
- Bank of Papua New Guinea
- TISA Bank
- Regina Sagu Foundation
- Nasfund
- Mama Bank (Women’s Microbank)
- Mibank
- National Development Bank
- Bank South Pacific
Led by Financial Inclusion and Capacity Development Manager Ms. Jill Pijui and Training Officer Mr. Paul Tamate, the CEFI team made a significant impact throughout the event. The team engaged directly with over 1,000 youths and interested individuals at the CEFI booth, conducting financial literacy training and awareness sessions. Through interactive discussions and informative sessions, visitors gained valuable insights into CEFI’s financial inclusion initiatives and the importance of managing their finances effectively.
To further support youth empowerment, CEFI distributed educational materials, including Financial Literacy Booklets, brochures, merchandise, and other resources. These efforts underscored CEFI’s unwavering commitment to equipping Papua New Guinea’s youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed financial decisions for a secure and prosperous future.
The Youth Resource Week, spearheaded by the Youth Resource Agency and supported by the National Youth Development Authority, is a transformative initiative aimed at mobilizing the nation’s young people as a positive force for development. Inspired by Prime Minister James Marape’s vision for youth engagement, this event serves as a critical platform for connecting young individuals to opportunities that align with their aspirations and potential.
CEFI extends its heartfelt appreciation to the organizing committee, including Mr. John Pora, Youth Resource Week Key Partnerships Director; Mr. Israel Luluaki, Youth Resource Week Stakeholder Sales; Ms. Nadya Parascoe, Youth Resource Week Booth Support Management; Ms. Tae Vala, Youth Resource Week Project Lead; and the entire organizing team and sponsors. Their dedication and vision have ensured the success of this strategic event.
Looking ahead, CEFI eagerly anticipates the next Youth Resource Week, which is set to be held regionally, expanding its reach and impact on youth financial empowerment across Papua New Guinea.
Image Caption: Photo highlights of CEFI staff actively engaged with youths during Youth Resource Week at Sir John Guise Stadium, held from March 24-28. Visitors to the booth discovered the importance of financial literacy and learned about CEFI’s initiatives in driving financial inclusion.
