Clara’s newfound confidence has inspired further ambitions. She wants to continue her education and complete a Bachelor’s degree in forestry. Clara has also announced her candidacy for the 2025 Local Level Government Elections, aiming to represent women and advocate for gender equality in decision-making spaces.
Overcoming barriers preventing women’s equal participation in leadership
27 December 2025Clara’s journey from job seeker to respected leader illustrates the transformative power of investing in women’s leadership in Papua New Guinea where job opportunities are scarce and cultural biases limit access to education and skills training. Systemic barriers also impede entry into specific professions or industries, such as information and communication technology, and engineering.
Clara, a 30-year-old mother of four children from the Kugark community in Minj, Jiwaka Province, faced significant barriers to finding employment. Opportunities were scarce, and despite graduating with a Diploma in Forestry, she found it difficult to compete in a male-dominated job market. Clara felt discouraged and uncertain about her future.
In 2016, Clara approached a local human rights organisation in the PNG Highlands area called Voice for Change, hoping to secure a job. The organisation recognised Clara’s potential and hired her, which proved to be a turning point in her life, opening doors to leadership training, skills development, and economic empowerment.
Clara became actively involved in the Young Women’s Leaders Program, where she learned fundamental leadership skills like public speaking, decision-making, and advocacy for women’s rights. Over time, she progressed from being a program participant to becoming Program Coordinator from 2017 to 2023. As Program Coordinator, Clara gained essential hands-on leadership experience.
Beyond leadership development, Voice for Change encouraged Clara to build her financial independence. She started her own piggery and poultry farms and a vegetable garden, enabling her to provide food for her family, support her children’s education, and contribute financially to household needs.
Today, Clara is a respected leader in her family, workplace, and community. Community members seek her advice and recognise her as a role model.
“I have experienced great changes in my personal life, within my family, and in my community. People call me ‘Leader,’ and I am proud of that. My attitudes and behaviours have changed since joining Voice for Change, and people respect me more because of these changes.” – Clara Opur
Her journey highlights the transformative power of investing in women’s leadership. Through Voice for Change’s support and the Young Women’s Leadership Program, Clara has changed her life and is now empowering others to overcome barriers and strive for greater opportunities.
“To become a woman leader in a patriarchal society is not easy, but challenges have only made me stronger. I am ready to tackle more and continue fighting for women’s rights.” – Clara Opur
