Port Vila, 15 September 2026: The 2026 Women in Leadership Program (WiLP) continues to make a significant impact across Vanuatu, empowering public servants with the skills and confidence needed to become effective and inclusive leaders within government and their communities.
The program recently celebrated the graduation of 15 participants in Tanna, comprising 11 women and 4 men, who successfully completed an intensive three-week leadership development course. In Santo, participants are currently undertaking the final week of training and are expected to graduate on Friday, 18 September 2026.
The Women in Leadership Program was co-designed through a partnership between the Vanuatu–Australia Partnership, the University of the South Pacific (USP), and the Vanuatu Institute of Public Administration and Management (VIPAM). The program aims to strengthen leadership capability across the public service while empowering women and promoting inclusive leadership practices.
Throughout the three-week training, participants developed practical leadership skills, strengthened their communication and decision-making abilities, enhanced teamwork, and explored strategies for creating positive and inclusive workplace cultures.
Beyond leadership development, the program is helping to foster workplaces where all employees feel respected, valued, and safe. By strengthening inclusive leadership practices, WiLP contributes to advancing gender equality, improving workplace relationships, and supporting more effective service delivery across government institutions.
As participants return to their workplaces and communities, they bring with them renewed confidence, greater leadership capacity, and a commitment to driving positive change within their organisations.
The Ministry of Youth, Justice and Community Services (MYJCS) acknowledges the strong collaboration and support of partner government ministries and development partners that have contributed to the successful delivery of the program.
MYJCS extends its appreciation to the Vanuatu–Australia Policing and Justice Program (VAPJP) for its valuable support. VAPJP funded airfares, participation fees, and related training expenses for five female participants in Tanna and five female participants in Santo, enabling greater participation and access to leadership development opportunities.
The success of the Women in Leadership Program reflects a shared commitment among government and development partners to building a more inclusive, capable, and resilient public service that supports the advancement of women leaders throughout Vanuatu.
