Annemaree benefits from China experience

By LORRAINE JIMAL
ANNEMAREE Komboi grabbed the opportunity to study abroad six years ago – for the sake of her family.
“Everything that I do, I think of my two younger sisters, my parents and the hard work they put into my study in China.”
She was into her second year studying economics at the University of PNG in 2016 when she was awarded a scholarship to study at the Technology and Business University in Beijing, China.
Annemaree 27, is the eldest of three sisters. Dad Paul, from Africa, works for a private company. Mum Josephine, from Dagua West Coast in East Sepik, works for a government agency in Port Moresby.
“From that academic experience, I (learned about life in China) first-hand. China’s rich and vibrant culture and tradition played an important part in building my character.”
She saw up close, and learned, how the Chinese valued hard work, persistence and, most of all, respect and honour. Those values, to some extent, changed AnneMaree’s perspective of life.
“I learned the importance of building friendship and networking the Chinese way, which is very rewarding.”
She was also captivated by Chinese art, architecture, music, language, lifestyle and food.
“It was an enriching experience for me, seeing how Chinese people use the limited resources around them to create valuable things. Personally, I used it as a motivation. China will always have a special place in my heart.”
She returned to PNG when the Coronavirus pandemic broke out in 2020. But she continued her studies online.
She completed the economics degree programme last year online.
The Chinese embassy in Port Moresby organised a small ceremony to recognise the academic achievements of the PNG students.
Annemaree now works as an analyst in a government organization. After gaining some work experience there, she plans to move to other state agencies to learn more.
She started her education at the St Peters Primary School before attending Gordon International School.
She completed Grade 12 at the Marienville Secondary School and was offered a place to study public policy management at UPNG. Then she left for China where she acquired a Bachelor of Economic degree at the University of Technology and Business in Beijing.
She wants to learn as much as she can at work and hopefully contribute in whatever little way she can to national development.
Her advice to young people is to make use of the country’s resources for their benefit and to contribute to national development.
“We have no excuses. I encourage my peers and young people to make use of the available resources around us. It is important to enhance your skills and knowledge. Knowledge is power. You can go to anywhere in the world if you work hard to achieve goals. Nothing in life comes easy.”
Looking back, Annemaree knows well the tough road she came through.
“I grew up in is a very different environment from my two younger sisters. My parents had me in high school. It was a tough life growing up and I know the hardship. It is why I strive for success in whatever I do – for my parents, sisters, and myself.”

“ From that academic experience, I (learned about life in China) first-hand. China’s rich and vibrant culture and tradition played an important part in building my character.”