Nurse gets nod for US award

 PAPUA New Guinean nurse Winnie William has been nominated for the US Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award. 

 William has been recognised for her courage, dedication and sacrifice to save lives of Papua New Guinean women.

Established in 2007, the US Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award honours women around the globe who have exemplified exceptional courage and leadership in advocating human rights, women’s equality, and social progress – often at great personal risk. 

The US Embassy Port in Port Moresby honoured William during an award ceremony  at the 2016 PNG Women’s Forum, which is taking place through in Port Moresby. 

US Ambassador Catherine Ebert-Gray said she was thrilled to honour William as the 2015 Papua New Guinea nominee for the award. 

“Winnie consistently demonstrated exceptional courage and impact in advocating for good governance, law and order and women’s empowerment in PNG. 

“Inspite of personal threats, discrimination, lawlessness, and violent criminal acts, Winnie steadfastly placed her own life in danger to save other women from horrific sorcery-related violence,” Ebert-Gray said. William, from Mendi in Southern Highlands, is a medical professional and serves as the Catholic Health Secretary for the Diocese of Mendi.