Nominations are now open for the prestigious Westpac Outstanding Women (WOW) Awards, Papua New Guinea’s leading platform for celebrating the remarkable contributions of women across various sectors.
Returning after five years, the WOW Awards continue to honour women who are leading change in business, leadership, sustainability, and the creative industries.
Westpac Pacific Managing Director Emma Low called on individuals, businesses and communities to submit nominations for exceptional women leaders.
“The WOW Awards provide a platform to celebrate and elevate the voices of women who are driving change across Papua New Guinea. Whether they are leading businesses, championing sustainability or making strides in sports and the arts, these women deserve recognition. We encourage everyone to take this time to nominate an inspiring woman today”, said Ms. Low.
Award Categories & Criteria
Nominations are open in the following categories:
• Private Sector Award – Awarded to a woman demonstrating strong leadership and influence in the corporate or business sector.
• Public Sector Award – Recognising a woman excelling in leadership within government or public administration.
• Young Achiever Award – Recognising an inspiring young woman (aged 18-35) excelling in her career or community.
• Entrepreneur Award – Celebrating a female entrepreneur who has built a successful business that contributes to economic growth.
• Sustainability Award – Honouring a woman making a significant impact in environmental sustainability, conservation, or community development.
• Not-for-Profit Award – Recognising a leader in the NGO or non-profit sector driving meaningful change.
• Sports & Arts Advocate Award – Celebrating a woman who has made significant contributions in sports, arts, or cultural advocacy.
The overall winner gets the Westpac Outstanding Woman of the Year, which is the highest honour, awarded to a woman who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and impact in her field.
Each nomination will be assessed based on leadership, impact, innovation, and contributions to advancing women’s roles in PNG.
Former WOW Award recipient Janet Sios highlighted the importance of recognising women’s achievements.
"The WOW Awards shine a spotlight on women who are making real change in their communities and industries. Being part of this recognition is empowering, and I encourage everyone to take the time to nominate a woman who is creating positive change," said Ms. Sios.
How to Nominate
Nominations can be submitted online via the Westpac Outstanding Women’s Awards webpage Westpac Outstanding Women Awards
For those outside of Port Moresby, physical nominations can also be delivered to regional Westpac branches. Please collect your nomination forms at any of our regional branches. You can also scan the QR code available on all WOW Awards collaterals in branch to submit your nomination.
The deadline for nominations is 30 May 2025.
