Women’s community boxing programme out to raise funds

KAMAPIM Boxing Meri (KBM) is an organisation led by local women to encourage more women to participate in boxing.
KBM public relations and promotional manager Syeidah Geniembo, pictured, said the organisation was made up of enthusiasts seeking a good workout and amateur female boxers who could use their programme to break down gender stereotypes.
“The mental and physical effort involved in boxing training gives participants a much-needed sense of empowerment while promoting gender equality in the broader community,” Geniembo said.
“KBM provides safe spaces to train, where women build their self-confidence and gain a well-earned feeling of physical and mental strength,” Geniembo said.
“The programme open to women at any fitness level, the organisation’s greater goal is to scout new talent and increase the number of female amateur boxers who could represent PNG.” “KBM’s key organisers are PNG elite amateur boxers Debbie Kaore, Raphaela Baki Kaore, Nedi Lavett and Geniembo.
Geniembo said in partnership with the National Capital District Commission’s Active City Development Programme, KBM offered training opportunities to women who live in settlements across the city. KBM are hosting a fundraiser on Saturday, Nov 24 from 11am-2pm at the Element Bar. The “Punch and Brunch” will raise the funds they need to purchase training equipment such as gloves, focus mitts, and protective headgear. “We’re seeking sponsors whose personal donations will allow KBM to cover the training fees for community women to attend their weekly Saturday boxing class and the Glove Up PNG workshop next month.
Information on the Kamapim Boxing Meri programme can be seen on www.gloveuppng.org.