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Balancing work and pursuing academic excellence can be a daunting experience to many, yet Samantha Iyapeng has balanced her role with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and has accomplished her academic goals.
Samantha, a 35 year old woman from Galeoale Village in Hoskins, West New Britain Province and a proud graduate from the University of Papua New Guinea’s (UPNG) with a Bachelor of Business & Management Professional Studies in Tourism & Hospitality Management program (BBMPS – THM).
She began her journey with the PNGTPA in 2015 as a receptionist. Armed with a diploma in Information Technology (IT), she embraced the opportunity with dedication, “I really didn’t mind, as long as I had a job, sometimes stepping in to perform simple IT duties,” said Samantha.
In 2021, Samantha was sponsored by PNGTPA to pursue her studies at UPNG. However, her educational pursuits were halted by the passing of her mother. Despite this, Samantha remained focused on her goal.
“It was a very difficult time for me, yet I remained committed to my professional development and completed the program,” she affirmed with a smile.
“Balancing my role as a student at UPNG with my responsibilities at PNGTPA presented both challenges and rewards, making it a journey filled with many fond experiences,” Samantha reflects.
Resuming her studies in 2022, Samantha encountered numerous challenges – from balancing work responsibilities at PNGTPA with academic coursework to managing household chores amidst late-night studies. Yet, fuelled by her passion for the tourism industry and a relentless desire to advance her career, Samantha pushed through.
“Effective time management and flexibility were key with the support from friends, colleagues and supervisors who helped me navigate the workload. Obviously, sacrifices were made, but the experience enriched my understanding of the tourism industry and enhanced my skills,” said Samantha.
Her passion for travel and cultural exploration, with a vision for positive change, were the key motivators as she proudly received her bachelor’s degree in the industry which she proudly claims as one of the best.
“As a recent graduate, several aspects of my education are highly applicable to my role at PNGTPA,” Samantha notes.
“From strategic planning to marketing and promotion, Samantha’s academic endeavours aligned with her responsibilities as a Business Development Officer.
Douglas Keari, Executive Manager for Research & Business Development at PNGTPA, speaks highly of Samantha’s dedication and potential.
“Samantha is a keen learner and always willing to take on challenges. Her commitment to professional development is commendable, and I am confident that the degree will enhance her understanding of her role, said Keari.
Samantha’s passion for her job has given her the responsibility to spearhead the “Tourism MSME Training” initiative, a project aimed at developing entrepreneurship and promoting sustainable tourism development across Papua New Guinea. By conducting training sessions in different regions, Samantha ensures broader participation and engagement from local communities, thereby spreading the benefits of tourism more evenly across the country.
“The project demonstrates PNGTPA’s commitment to maximizing the potential of PNG’s tourism sector. It’s an exciting endeavour that has the potential to make a positive and lasting impact on the tourism landscape of the country. This is why I love my job and the industry that I proudly serve,” said Samantha.
Samantha’s vision for her future is clear – to advance into leadership roles, drive innovation, and champion talent development within the organization. Her experience as a sponsored student has given her a deep appreciation for education and professional development, motivating her to support initiatives that empower others within the tourism sector to thrive and succeed.
“To the young graduates aspiring to work in the PNG tourism sector. Find your passion, embrace challenges, make an impact, and believe in yourself. Your passion and determination will carry you far in this dynamic and rewarding industry,” said Samantha with her heartfelt advice.
PNGTPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo also commended Samantha and many other employees who have graduated with their Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Hospitality Management from the University of Papua New Guinea.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of our PNGTPA employees for their outstanding accomplishment in achieving their career development. Their commitment to furthering their education while balancing each of their responsibilities at PNGTPA is truly commendable,” said Uvovo.
Left to Right: Joline Kavo, Verolyn Yeme, TPA’s Product Development Officer for Culture, Jessy Pundu, TPA’s Personal Assistant to the CEO, Lynette Buseh, Muriel Gerari, Talianne Oki and TPA’s Senior Policy and Planning Officer, Daphne Galore during their graduation last year at UPNG with their Bachelor’s Degree in BBMPS – THM, under TPA and UPNG’s collabotive program.
“We are proud to have sponsored six TPA employees through this program so far. It is a testament of our commitment to investing in the professional development of our team members and empowering them to reach their full potential.
We believe that investing in our employees’ education not only benefits them individually but also contributes to the overall success and sustainability of our organization,” Uvovo affirms.
The BBM PS – THM is UPNG and PNGTPA’s joint program, which is tailored to meet the needs of working professionals in the tourism sector. It provides a pathway for individuals like Samantha and many other employees, who have extensive experience in the industry but lack formal academic qualifications, to obtain recognized degrees.
The inclusive nature of the program, accommodates individuals with various educational backgrounds and levels of experience, ranging from graduates with secondary school certifications to those with existing diplomas or degrees in relevant fields.
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ANZAC Day is commemorated on the 25th of April every year to remember the services of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corp during the great world wars. This day honours the Australian and New Zealand soldiers “who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations” throughout the world.
Although, ANZAC Day is no longer a National Day of Observance in Papua New Guinea, many citizens and residents still pause to remember the bravery of the ANZACs, especially during the New Guinea WWII Campaign in PNG’s history. As a former territory of Australia – up until achieving Independence in 1975, Papua New Guinea was instrumental both geographically and politically in protecting the Australian mainland from the WWII Axis powers.
Over 80 years have passed since the great WWII Battles raged across Papua New Guinea. However, the memories of the ANZACs still remain in PNG through beautifully kept memorial sites, undisturbed war relics, and treasured museums – where the stories of the past are kept safe for future generations to remember.
Your ANZAC journey in Papua New Guinea awaits, with a million different stories to discover, here are a list of timeless places we recommend you visit today to pay homage to the brave and fallen of a bygone era.
During World War II in early 1942, Japan dominated air superiority in the Pacific, targeting Lae and nearby airfields in PNG. Lae and Salamaua were bombed on January 21st, followed by a land invasion on March 7th, and further invasions in Buna and Gona in July, marking a critical phase in the New Guinea Campaign. In 1944, the Australian Army Graves Service established the Lae War Cemetery to honour those lost in the campaign, with up to 2,818 Commonwealth Burials, including 444 unidentified soldiers. The Cemetery was transferred to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in 1947, and unveiled in 1953 by the Governor-General of Australia, Field Marshal Slim.
The Lae War Memorial is situated in the heart of Lae City, Morobe Province, near the beautiful Lae Botanical Gardens.
The Isurava Memorial is a site at which some of the most intense battles took place during the Kokoda Campaign between July to November of 1942. A notable site adjacent to the Isurava Memorial is where the famous tale of Private Bruce ‘Steel’ Kingsbury VC performed an act of valour for which he was awarded the Victoria Cross – the first VC awarded in PNG, after his passing in August 1942.
The Isurava Memorial features four Australian Black Granite pillars each inscribed with a single word: Courage, Endurance, Mateship, Sacrifice.
A fitting representation of the values and qualities displayed by Private Bruce Kingsbury VC and the Australian soldiers who fought along the Kokoda Trail.
The Kokoda Isurava Memorial looks over the Kokoda Valley in the Northern Province, a few hours trekking to the Kokoda Station.
Following the Japanese invasions of Lae and Salamaua in March 1942, Port Moresby became a target. However, after their sea attack fleet was defeated in the Coral Sea, they shifted to overland assaults, targeting Buna and Gona in September 1942. The Bomana War Cemetery, unveiled in 1953 by Australia’s Governor-General, Field Marshal Slim, serves as the final resting place for 3,824 Commonwealth soldiers from battles in PNG and Bougainville, including 699 unidentified soldiers. Adjacent to the cemetery, the Port Moresby War Memorial honours 750 Australian Army, Merchant Navy, and Air Force personnel who died in PNG with no known graves, while Bougainville’s unidentified casualties are remembered at Fiji’s Suva Memorial.
The Bomana War Cemetery lies north of Port Moresby on the road to Nine Mile and is approached from the main road by a short road called Pilgrims Way.
The Ela Beach Remembrance Park was constructed in the mid 2000s and brings together plaques from memorials from around Port Moresby to one location. Of the plaques, the most notable is a copper-beating of the famous photo of a “Fuzzy-Wuzzy Angel” assisting a wounded Australian soldier during the Kokoda Campaign.
The Ela Beach Remembrance Park can be found along the stretch of road along the coastline from Koki to Ela Beach in Port Moresby.
The Coastwatchers Memorial situated at the Kalibobo Lighthouse in Madang Province is a memorial in honour of the “Fallen Coastwatchers.” 38 Australians were members of the 5th Australian Division which was a platoon of the 30th and a patrol of the 57th of the 60th Battalion who defeated a Japanese rearguard that Madang in April of 1944. In 1959, Australian Minister for Navy, Senator John Gorton switch the light on of the memorial for the first time.
Perched in Madang, the Kalibobo Lighthouse overlooks the breathtaking Dallman Passage and accessible via the Coronation Drive.
On September 13th, 1945, Japanese Lieutenant General Adachi of the 18th Imperial Japanese Army officially surrendered and handed his Samurai Sword to Australian Major General Robertson of the 6th Division at Cape Wom. The exact location of the surrender is now known as the Cape Wom Memorial Park to honour the memory of those that laid down their lives as well as signifying the historical significance of the end of the Second World War.
Cape Wom Memorial Park can be found in East Sepik Province, west of Wewak town, on the same road heading towards Dagua.
In January 1942, Rabaul endured a Japanese attack following extensive air bombardment, leading to a significant defeat for its defenders, resulting in numerous casualties, captures, and some escaping. Concurrently, New Ireland also faced an attack. The conflict reignited in November 1944 with Australian forces landing at Jacquinot Bay and Wide Bay, containing the Japanese in the Gazelle Peninsula until their surrender in August 1945. Rabaul was extensively bombed and was taken over by the Allies after the Japanese surrendered. The Rabaul (Bita Paka) War Cemetery, established in 1945, holds Commonwealth burials from the New Britain and New Ireland operations.
The Bita Paka Memorial commemorates the services of the Australian Army and Royal Australian Air Force members who perished in the region with no known graves.
The Bitapaka War Cemetery can be found a half-an-hour drive from Kokopo town, East New Britain Province. The War Cemetery is around 50km south of Rabaul, and about 5km south-west of Kokopo.
See: ANZAC Day in Rabaul.
Other recommended places to visit on your ANZAC Journey in Papua New Guinea:
For more information, contact us via info@papuanewguinea.travel
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Discover and escape from the busyness of Port Moresby city and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature at the Varirata National Park
By Maureen Wei
Varirata National Park sits calmly on the cool and picturesque Sogeri Plateau, on the back of the Owen Stanley Range. It is Port Moresby’s best-known sanctuary that provides an ecosystem for distinct flora and fauna. Complimented by an aerial view of Port Moresby’s main land and coastline, Varirata National Park is an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life into the peaceful and tranquil serenity of nature. There are many activities that one can enjoy at the Varirata National Park. From birdwatching, hiking, picnicking, even school excursions or just simply sightseeing. The park has no shortage of activities one can indulge in.
Varirata National Park is known for its breathtaking lookouts, lakes, streams and hiking trails. The ‘Main Lookout’ is the Park’s most popular attraction. The majestic views stretch over the Sogeri escarpment, surrounding hills, coastline and the city of Port Moresby. There are also several lookouts in the park that offer interesting views of the lush vegetation found up at Varirata. A lake can be found in the middle of the park, and is home to some interesting flora and fauna – including frogs and egrets. The park has five tracks that are well signposted and often lead to other unique attractions like the Koiari Tree House and even the Raggiana birds-of-paradise. Discover stunning plant life during your hike and immerse yourself in a symphony of insect-sound and birdsong.
Varirata National Park’s location and vegetation provides an ideal habitat for a variety of birds, many of which are endemic to Papua New Guinea. As such the park is a top site for bird watching in the Central Province. Bird watching tours to Varirata can be booked through PNG Explorers International and New Guinea Natural Tours. Some of the extraordinary bird life that can be found at the park include the Raggiana Bird of Paradise, Hooded Pitohui, Southern Cassowary, Hornbill, Kingfisher, Megapodes – as well as other animals like wallabies, echidnas, bandicoots, green pythons, parrots, butterflies and more. Nature lovers will enjoy seeing and hearing the park’s unique wildlife.
The park has several spots suitable to layout a picnic while enjoying the lush green scenery. The picnic areas are built in places that have access to breathtaking views. In addition, they have functioning well-maintained toilets, running water taps, barbecue areas, haus-wins and picnic tables. The roads are accessible and sealed, with one entry point and exit point.
An Information Centre can be found at the main picnic site. This is a modern building with some interesting displays that provide invaluable information about Varirata’s history, the significance of the Koiari culture, and the amazing flora and fauna that can be found there.
Varirata is a popular spot for Port Moresby residents, especially school excursions, picnics and weekend outings.
Varirata National Park is Papua New Guinea’s first National Park. It was declared on December 10th, 1969 and was officially opened in October the 8th, 1973, just two years before PNG gained independence. The Park is located approximately 23 kilometres (14.30 miles) North-East from Port Moresby at the edge of the Sogeri Plateau. It occupies an area of 1,063 hectares at an elevation of 630 to 833 meters giving it the most impeccable location to have an aerial view of Port Moresby from the Lookout point. The vegetation around the park is made up of Eucalypt Savannah, Secondary Forest mainly consisting of native casuarina trees.
Discover the intrigue and wonder of Papua New Guinea’s incredible past. From our ancient Melanesian history to our impassioned modern politics leading to our Independence: 16th September 1975 – Papua New Guinea is a Pacific Island nation like no other.
Journey back in time with our exciting historical tours offering tales of discovery and adventure – from early European explorers, missionaries and settlers, to our German, British and Australian colonization. Remember with us the chaos and tragedy of the World Wars that saw the emergence of our national heroes like the ‘Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels’ – whose sacrifices will never be forgotten. Time travel in Papua New Guinea, we have a million different stories we want to share with you!
These are our top three picks for your journey back in time in the land of ‘A Million Different Journeys’.
Image: Trekking through the ‘choko’ covered forest floor, Kokoda, Oro Province, Papua New Guinea.
Trekking world-famous Kokoda is not only a 96 km physical endurance challenge, it’s also a spiritual journey, retracing the footsteps of the thousands of soldiers and Papua New Guineans who were killed or injured during World War Two. In Australia, Kokoda is regarded as a rite of passage, and those who trek it feel an overwhelming sense of appreciation for what the ANZAC’s endured during the war. If that is not enough to sway you, the scenery you walk through will blow you away as you experience deep jungle and beautiful waterfalls. Reputable Kokoda tour operators are listed on the KTA website (kokodatrackauthority.org).
Join the ANZAC Day observances in PNG this 25th of April: Bomana War Memorial, Kokoda Isurava Memorial, Kalibobo Coastwatchers Memorial, Rabaul RSL Cenotaph, Bitapaka, Alotau Memorial, Lae War Memorial and Wom Memorial in East Sepik Province.
Image: Local children at the Kokopo War Museum, East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea.
East New Britain province, is a destination rich with history. Its main township of Rabaul was once the capital of Kaiser-Wilhelmsland, or German New Guinea, 1884 – 1919. Memory runs long and deep for residents here, the most memorable being that of the twin volcanic eruptions of Vulcan and Tavurvur in 1994 that devastated Rabaul town. Nearly three decades later, Rabaul has been rebuilt by its residents. Every year during the week of the nation’s Independence Day Anniversary, the people of Rabaul come together to celebrate the annual Frangipani Festival, named after the town’s signature bloom, and one of the first flowers to blossom after the eruption.
Volcano tours are proving quite popular for visitors, especially watching the spectacular sunrise from the top of Mount Tavurvur.
World War Two also left its indelible mark in East New Britain. The Rabaul Historical Museum and the Kokopo War Museum are worth a visit. Guests will be intrigued by the many stories each museum object and relic contains, and just how significant this province was during the WWII New Guinea campaign.
Apart from the history, there is no escaping the tropical beauty of East New Britain. Discover delicious finds at the Rabaul and Kokopo fresh food markets. Enjoy romantic picnics in the Duke of York Islands and swimming with the friendly Bottlenose dolphins.
Traditional culture livens up the local atmosphere in Kokopo with the annual Mask & Warwagira Festival every mid-July. Don’t miss all the excitement
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Image: Cultural performer from the Keeya tribe, Eastern Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea.
The month of September is the an exciting time to visit the Eastern Highlands province. A string of wonderful cultural festivals are hosted in this beautiful part of the country, including one of the nation’s oldest annual events – the Goroka Show. Prior to that is the Kemase Eco-Tourism Cultural Festival, 13th to 14th September. Kemase is an hour’s drive from Goroka town, and is home to fascinating limestone caves that contain prehistoric cave paintings.
While in Goroka, visit the J.K. McCarthy Museum; pay a visit to one of the local coffee factories to sample some of the world’s best-tasting coffee; plus take a guided tour of the local fresh food, and craft markets.
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Papua New Guinea is a beautiful destination, full of adventure and intrigue. Whether you are a resident Papua New Guinean or an expatriate living in our great nation, you’d be surprised to find that, like our rich and diverse country – there are a wealth of things to see and do in Papua New Guinea. Like our ancestors who journeyed rugged mountains and vast seas, perhaps it’s time for you to answer that call for adventure when our nation reaches its golden milestone in the year 2025! Here are 50 Papua New Guinea journeys we recommend you should make in this lifetime.
Visitors browsing the monthly POM City Markets | Pascoe Promotions
A sandbank near Pokpok Island, Autonomous Region of Bougainville | Tourism Promotion Authority
Goodfellow’s tree kangaroo mother and joey at the Port Moresby Nature Park.
Outrigger canoes in Tufi, Oro (Northern) Province | Tufi Dive Resort
The Abelam people of Kanganamun village in traditional dress, Maprik, East Sepik Province | Mateos Alois, Sepik Adventure Tours
Visitors browsing the monthly POM City Markets | Pascoe Promotions
Scuba diver and batfish, Bootless Bay, Central Province | PRO Dive PNG
Service with a smile at the Grand Brasserie restaurant, Grand Papua Hotel, Port Moresby | PNG Tourism Promotion Authority
Join us in 2025 for a memorable golden anniversary – as we unite as a nation to remember our 50-years journey as the Independent State of Papua Niugini!
