In 2017, PiCCA partnered with the Hako Women’s Collective in Bougainville to build a brand new community centre, the Luman Hipakoko as it is called in the local language. PiCCA members kicked off the project with some early donations and then went to work to raise the rest of funds required through a crowd funding campaign. We also linked in pro bono professional expertise from architect Amber Garde who designed the building. Further contributions from C3 church in Sydney and the hard work and wide support from the people of Hako ensured the project was completed and the community centre was built.
So, what is happening now? Quite a lot as it turns out.
- Training and development programs are being run from the centre.
- Training sessions involving the 22 newly elected office bearers across six women’s fellowships in Buka.
- Youth training programs.
- Local village courts are now referring women who have been affected by domestic violence to the centre.
- The local Chiefs are lending their support and the Community Auxiliary Police are issuing preventive orders and are supportive of the counsellors helping the women. For the first time, these women have access to a shower and toilet which are provided in Luman Hipakoko.
- The centre’s canteen, which is being operated as a social enterprise, is operating very well.
- The Library is opening two days a week.
- And there are great plans to link in more services and programs for the community.
Fantastic work and leadership by the women of Hako and we at PiCCA have been privileged to be able to support their amazing efforts.
