Australia, is supporting locally led initiatives that promote gender equality, disability equity and social inclusion, creating greater opportunities for all Papua New Guineans to participate in and benefit from community life.
As part of this support, young Papua New Guinean artist and disability advocate Samuel Rei is leading the Voices Beyond Limits showcase at Moresby Arts Theatre (MAT) on 16 October. The event will celebrate creativity, talents and contributions of people with disabilities in Papua New Guinea’s arts and culture sector.
Samuel assisting a student from Gordons Secondary School during a Youth Arts Program activity last month.
The showcase will bring together artists, disability organisations, youth groups and community members to celebrate diversity, creativity, challenge stereotypes and promote greater participation in the arts. Drama, music and talent performances, will be featured alongside information booths hosted by disability organisations, service providers and community groups.
Samuel, who also works as the Inclusion Officer at MAT helps the theatre team create opportunities for women, young people and people with disabilities to engage in arts programs and community activities.
Samuel Rei at the craft market with vendor Hera Toi – a woman with a disability from Pari village. Hera is a regular vendor at the Moresby Arts Theatre craft market.
Through Australia’s support for the refurbishment of MAT, he also participated in training on gender equality, disability, social inclusion and safeguarding.
The idea for the showcase emerged from this training, alongside a series of themed craft markets hosted by MAT that promoted inclusion, accessibility and cultural diversity.
“My role is to help marginalised groups, support persons with disabilities, youth and women to actively take part in MAT events and programmes,” said Mr Rei.
Australia’s support has also helped improve accessibility at the theatre through upgraded wheelchair access, pathways and accessible amenities, making it easier for people with disabilities to participate in performances, training and community events.
Samuel engaging with students during a session of the Youth Arts Program.
“Accessibility is very important because Moresby Arts Theatre is a place where people gather, express themselves and show their talents and abilities. It is important to make the facility accessible for everyone, especially persons with disabilities,” he said.
Participating organisations include PNG Youths with Disabilities, Cheshire Disability Services, Calan Services, the PNG Paralympic Committee and other organisations working to advance disability inclusion across Papua New Guinea.
Australia through the Incentive Fund is proud to partner with organisations such as Moresby Arts Theatre to help build a more inclusive society where everyone can participate, contribute and realise their potential.
