Australia Awards alumnus, educator and WLI Men’s Group participant, Jack Bire from Papua New Guinea (PNG), is rightly proud to be a Pacific man dedicated to enhancing gender equality and inclusive development in the Pacific region, particularly in PNG. He is also honoured to be a member of WLI’s Men’s Group — a new initiative designed specifically for male Australia Awards scholars, alumni and spouses from the Pacific.
WLI Men’s Group is designed to provide a safe space for Pacific men to explore their leadership identities, examine the role of gender in leadership, and actively support gender equality in Pacific countries. The group’s existence is underpinned by the knowledge that men’s support is fundamental for shifting gender norms and promoting wider community acceptance and support for women’s leadership in the Pacific.
The group’s participants engage in regular online learning, reflection and connection sessions led by Pacific experts and practitioners, as well as a week-long intensive program delivered by Outward Bound Australia on country in Canberra, Australia.
Reflecting on his experience as a WLI Men’s Group member, Jack, said: “WLI Men’s Group is one of the most effective platforms created specifically to engage Pacific men who share common values and are committed to advocating for gender equality. The group does not aim to create gender imbalance, but rather to promote mutual respect between men and women.
"I have come to understand the true meaning of respect — recognising women as equals.” - Jack Bire
For Jack, a highlight was the week-long intensive program in Tharwa, Canberra. “The mutual respect demonstrated by everyone during the program completely transformed my worldview about the importance of respecting humanity,” says Jack.
Jack also shared that thanks to the men’s group, he has “learnt valuable lessons about leadership, recognising women’s perspectives, ensuring women have opportunities in decision-making, and supporting women leaders with dignity.” He credited the leadership sessions for giving him the confidence and skills to advocate as a male champion for equality, addressing issues that affect both men and women and ultimately the livelihoods of all people in PNG and across the Pacific.
In addition to joining the men’s group, Jack has previously participated in WLI’s LeadershipConnect program in both 2023 and 2024.
Reflecting on what he learnt through the program, specifically in regard to gender equality, Jack shared: “I've learnt a lot and have applied this to both my personal and professional life. I now understand and respect women more and educate my community to do the same.”
As part of the LeadershipConnect program, Jack also participated in a Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Sorcery Accusation-Related Violence (SARV) workshop in PNG.
Belief in sorcery is deeply entrenched and widely held across PNG, and violence related to accusations of sorcery is a serious problem. Educating people, especially men, about SARV is vital for actioning lasting change, and as an educator dedicated to raising awareness about gender equity and GBV, Jack jumped at the chance to learn about a critical issue impacting women and girls across PNG.
“I am deeply committed to applying what I have learnt to drive awareness, promote justice, and advocate for protection and equality for all.” – Jack Bire
“The workshop was both eye-opening and transformative. It broadened my awareness of the cultural, social, and structural factors that contribute to GBV and SARV — issues that remain widespread and deeply rooted in PNG communities, particularly in the Highlands region. I gained valuable insights into prevention strategies, survivor-centred approaches, relevant legal frameworks, and inclusive practices that safeguard and empower vulnerable individuals. The knowledge and skills gained from this training will be invaluable in my work as an educator, where I engage with diverse groups of students.”
Ready to make a difference
At work, Jacks plans to integrate GEDSI principles into his teaching and provide stronger support to students who may be affected by GBV or community-based violence.
“I also plan to apply this knowledge via awareness programs and community engagement activities across communities in the Eastern Highlands, where GBV and SARV continue to affect families, youth, and vulnerable groups in almost every aspect of society,” says Jack.
Jack revealed that a significant part of his learning involved reflecting on the painful realities of SARV in his own community in the Lufa District of the Eastern Highlands Province in PNG.
“I have come to understand that my leadership is firmly grounded in empathy, justice, and a genuine commitment to positive change. This experience has strengthened my confidence to speak openly about GBV and SARV and to advocate for victims with dignity and compassion,” says Jack, adding: “I now feel equipped with the confidence, skills, and motivation needed to contribute to safer, more inclusive communities throughout the Eastern Highlands and across PNG.”
Learn more about WLI’s Men’s Group and LeadershipConnect program.