Association aims to unite women

By CLARISSA MOI
THE Papua New Guinea Women Lawyers’ Association aims to unite women in the legal profession to meaningfully contribute to nation-building.
“The membership currently stands at 42,” says president Pauline Mogish.
“The association is encouraging women lawyers around the country to register and be a member.
“At the inaugural general meeting on Nov 11, 2017, new executives and committee members were elected to pursue and progress the interests of the association.”
The association was launched in Port Moresby in May.
Communications and public relations committee leader Stephanie Alopea said the association was an avenue for women lawyers to do more than what was required in their professional capacity.
“It is a platform that women lawyers can and will use to drive change,” she said.
“This is especially in law reforms and issues affecting the vulnerable population, specifically women and children.
“We provide legal services for free to victims of domestic and family violence.”
The interim executive arranged for registration at Investment Promotion Authority in 2015 with a copy of the rules that was adopted from the Queensland Women Lawyers’ Association.
“We are currently amending our rules,” Mogish said.
“The amendments are necessary to make sure it is suitable to our needs in Papua New Guinea.
“Our sub-committees will play a pivotal role in shaping what events and activities we roll out over the next year.
“We already have some great ideas about participating in Toastmasters, organising professional development seminars and hosting trivia nights as fundraising activities.
“An association can only be successful like its members and its executives who are its leaders.
“We have to maintain good positive energy in our hearts and souls in order to progress this association.”