Kina Bank was pleased to once again support RISE PNG through its recent entrepreneurship workshop, “I Build My Pathway,” held on Saturday, 19 April 2026, at the Gateway Hotel in Port Moresby.
This marks the second time Kina Bank has supported RISE PNG, reinforcing its commitment to advancing financial inclusion, financial literacy, and women’s economic empowerment in Papua New Guinea.
RISE PNG is a mentorship and development programme focused on empowering young women through education, leadership development, and entrepreneurship. The programme connects students with mentors and provides practical learning experiences that help build confidence, life skills, and pathways into future careers and business opportunities.
The workshop brought together 40 mentees and 20 mentors, with participating students from Tokarara Secondary School, Marianville Secondary School and Gordon’s Secondary School.
The workshop focused on career exposure and entrepreneurship, introducing participants to a wide range of career opportunities across both conventional and technical or vocational pathways. It also emphasised the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset encouraging the girls to recognise that they can start where they are, with what they have, and begin building toward their aspirations.
A major highlight of the workshop was the launch of the mentees’ entrepreneurial journey. The students were divided into eight groups of five, with each group receiving a K200 business loan from Kina Bank to start and manage their own small businesses through to their graduation in September 2026. This hands-on experience provides valuable real-life application of the skills, lessons, and leadership principles developed throughout their RISE journey.
Kina Bank was represented at the workshop by Martina Toulogu, Head of Operations, who attended as a guest speaker. Ms Toulogu shared her personal career journey and experience within the financial sector, including her pathway to leadership at Kina Bank. Her story inspired strong engagement from participants, many of whom asked questions about career development and opportunities within the financial services industry.
“Kina Bank is proud to support RISE PNG again this year because their work aligns strongly with our values,” said Ivan Vidovich, CEO & Managing Director. “Investing in women and youth creates stronger families, communities, and a stronger economy.”
Founder and Director of RISE PNG Michelle Pillay said, “Kina Bank’s continued partnership and support play a critical role in delivering practical, impactful programmes that equip young women with the confidence and tools to pursue their ambitions”.
Toulogu presenting the RISE PNG mentees with K200 loans during the workshop.