Exceptional women honoured at 2025 Westpac Outstanding Women Awards
Seven outstanding women were recognised for their achievements and leadership at the 2025 Westpac Outstanding Women [WOW] Awards held in a grand ceremony last night in Port Moresby.
The awards celebrated excellence across seven categories: Entrepreneurship, Not-for-Profit, Private Sector, Public Sector, Sports & Arts, Sustainability, and Young Achiever.
Chosen from more than 150 nominations nationwide, the winners represent the strength, innovation, and resilience of Papua New Guinea’s women leaders.
Anne Shirley Korave was named the overall winner of the 2025 WOW Awards. A finalist in the Sustainability category, Anne was recognised for her pioneering work in environmental advocacy and menstrual health through her social enterprise, Queenpads, which produces reusable sanitary pads for rural communities.
Westpac Board Chairwoman Tamzin Wardley said the awards were a testament to the transformative impact of women in PNG.
“The WOW Awards not only celebrate achievement but inspire progress, resilience, and inclusive leadership. These women are role models who are changing the trajectory of our country,” Wardley said.
The 2025 Westpac Outstanding Women Award Winners:
Entrepreneurship – Violet Bukon
Not-for-Profit – Delsie Casper Nick
Private Sector – Raka Numa Raula
Public Sector – Dr Pamela Toliman
Sustainability – Anne Shirley Korave
Sports & Arts – Rutha-Meu Omenefa
Young Achiever – Julie Rereve
As overall winner, Anne Shirley will receive PGK 5,000, a 12-month mentorship program with Westpac PNG, and the opportunity to attend an executive leadership symposium in Australia in 2025 or 2026.
Westpac Pacific Managing Director Emma Low praised Anne Shirley’s contributions.
“Anne’s dedication to sustainability and women’s health stood out. She exemplifies what it means to lead with compassion and innovation.”
Anne, in accepting her award, said, “Receiving this award is an incredible honour. It’s a reminder that when women are empowered, communities thrive.”
Westpac PNG CEO Andrew Cairns commended the winners for their lasting contributions.
“We’re proud to honour women whose leadership and achievements are uplifting communities and driving progress in PNG.”
The WOW Awards, now in their 18th year, continue to champion women who are breaking barriers and shaping the future of Papua New Guinea.