WHO WE ARE
The Sea Women of Melanesia Inc. is a not-for-profit Association incorporated in Papua New Guinea. It is the first all-female marine conservation organisation in the region and all our directors are Indigenous Papua New Guinean women.
Our award-winning training programs are delivered by the Sea Women of Melanesia in Papua New Guinea with technical support from the Coral Sea Foundation.
The Sea Women of Melanesia program empowers indigenous women in Papua New Guinea with the training, skills, equipment, and resources they need to take an active role in helping indigenous communities create and manage marine protected areas on their coral reefs.
Gou Ava hails from the Central province of PNG and she is a certified scuba diver with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Papua New Guinea. She has research experience in shark and turtle conservation and is the Vice Chairperson of the PNG Center for Locally Managed Areas, which has given her valuable insight into best practices for community engagement in rural Melanesia.
Naomi Longa is a proud Melanesian woman from West New Britain and Manus Provinces of Papua New Guinea. She is an ocean advocate, scuba diving instructor, and community conservation leader dedicated to protecting marine ecosystems across the Pacific. As Co-Director of the Sea Women of Melanesia program and a lead trainer for its Great Barrier Reef initiative, Naomi empowers Indigenous women through training in coral reef monitoring, marine protected area management, and grassroots community engagement.
Naomi holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Papua New Guinea and is a certified SSI Scuba Diving Instructor. Since joining the Sea Women of Melanesia in 2018, she has led conservation programs that combine science, cultural values, and local leadership to protect marine ecosystems.
Naomi has received international recognition for her leadership in ocean conservation, including the 2021 Blue Marine Foundation Ocean Award (Local Hero), the 2022 CPL Foundation Pride of PNG Award (Environment), and the 2024 Whitley Award presented by HRH Princess Anne and Sir David Attenborough who narrated her award video https://youtu.be/r5H7WCQPVw0.
In 2023, she led the National Geographic Pristine Seas team to her maternal island of Manus to document a community-established Locally Managed Marine Area—an achievement that reflects her commitment to Indigenous-led marine protection. Her work, supported by the Coral Sea Foundation, continues to inspire a new generation of women leaders working to protect the Pacific’s reefs through the integration of traditional knowledge and marine science.
Jacinta Gigileia Jonathan comes from Fergusson Island in the Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea. She grew up between dinghy trips to Fergusson Island and her hometown Alotau. She spent hours in her family-owned fish shop in high school selling fish which motivated her to study fisheries. She completed her Bachelors degree in Fisheries and Marine Resources in 2018 from the PNG University of Natural Resources and Environment in Rabaul. She went on to pursue a postgraduate science degree from the University of Papua New Guinea. She was awarded the 2019 PNG LNG ExxonMobil Research Scholarship, and Marine Conservation Action Fund Award in 2021 for her three-year postgraduate research project, that has contributed towards the conservation of marine mammals in PNG. Since 2017, her research work continues to be fueled by her passion for marine conservation and fisheries management. Jacinta is also enthusiastic about the training and empowerment of indigenous women, particularly in the Global South.
Bianca Beri is from East Sepik Province and a biology graduate of the University of Papua New Guinea. Since joining the Sea Women of Melanesia she has completed her scuba diving training and been actively involved with reef surveys and community engagement activities around the Port Moresby region.
Tracey has a mixed Milne Bay and West Sepik parentage, and she graduated with a Diploma in General Nursing from St. Bamabas School of Nursing (Milne Bay) in 2020. She currently works as a registered Nurse at Alotau Provincial Hospital in Milne Bay. Tracey has a passion for supporting local communities and improving woman's health, and she is a certified Ambassador for our Days for Girls sustainable period products. She has participated in several field expeditions to the western Louisiade Archipelago and helped provide medical support and first aid assistance to our partner communities.
Jessica Loyam is a fisheries science graduate from the Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources and Environment. She hails from East Sepik Province, and she is a certified scuba diver and a passionate marine conservationist.
Maureen Oliver hails from the village of Divinai, 26km east of Alotau town in the Milne Bay Province. She grew up hunting, gardening and fishing as her livelihood, and in her free time was usually found swimming in the river and the sea. Maureen’s interest in marine conservation was sparked by her participation in a mangrove ecology training workshop in 2019, the Mangoro Market Meri project run by the Nature Conservancy, and later that year she participated in the first Sea Women of Melanesia training program in the Milne Bay province. Maureen is an active member of the Milne Bay SWoM team and she works hard to raise awareness about the sustainable management of marine resources in her local community and the northern Milne Bay area.
Tiana grew up in PNG and has lived and worked around the New Britain coastline her whole life. She is an all-round Sea Woman, being an accomplished diver, an expert fishing guide, and a well known underwater photographer. Through her family business Baia Sportsfishing PNG, she has extensive experience in ecotourism and vessel expeditions through the Kimbe region, and she also started her own charity, the Bucket of Love Foundation, to distribute humanitarian aid to remote PNG villages
Abishag hails from a small village called Paremeta on the northern coast of Milne Bay. Her first experiences of marine conservation were observing sticks being placed over the reefs in her clan area to control fishing as part of traditional practices. Since becoming involved with the Sea Women of Melanesia, she has overcome her fear of swimming and gained a deeper appreciation for the complexity of the coral reef ecosystems in Milne Bay, as well as understanding the need for educating local people on the importance of protecting and preserving those reefs.
“Since joining the Sea Women of Melanesia, I’ve come to see that our job isn’t just marine conservation, but helping the rural coastal communities understand how to sustainably manage their resources. These people look up the Sea Women as leaders and role models, inspiring the women to reach their goals, rather than settling for what their culture and customs bind them to. That has in turn inspired me to work for better outcomes for my generation of women and those that come after me, so that we can help our own communities flourish. There are a lot of people in our communities that need our help, and I want to provide that help as much as I can”.
“Since joining the Sea Women of Melanesia, I’ve come to see that our job isn’t just marine conservation, but helping the rural coastal communities understand how to sustainably manage their resources. These people look up the Sea Women as leaders and role models, inspiring the women to reach their goals, rather than settling for what their culture and customs bind them to. That has in turn inspired me to work for better outcomes for my generation of women and those that come after me, so that we can help our own communities flourish. There are a lot of people in our communities that need our help, and I want to provide that help as much as I can”.
Lorie Pipiga was the first Papua New Guinean woman trained through the Sea Women of Melanesia program, and her experience and passion inspired scores of other First Nations women to get involved with marine conservation. Lorie is from the matrilineal society of East Ferguson Island in the Milne Bay Province, and she lives with her family at Gugula Village in Sebutuia Bay, an area known for its stunning natural beauty and outstanding marine and terrestrial biodiversity. Lorie is the leader of the Ferguson Island Sea Women of Melanesia team and helps the local communities manage the marine protected areas in the Nua Marine Reserve Network.
Lorie’s family are subsistence farmers and fishers and she was the first-born daughter her family. She spent her formative years exploring the tropical rainforests, streams, and coral reefs of her traditional country, and was captivated by the wonders of the natural world. In her own words “I’ve always embraced nature, and spent all of my life just wondering, breathing, and at some point, screaming so loud just so I could hear my voice echo through the forest”. Lorie’s love for the sea was inspired by her Grandfather, who was a master mariner and participated in the famous Kula trade around the Milne Bay province.
In 2012 Lorie met Coral Sea Foundation Director Dr Andy Lewis and was inspired to follow her passion for marine science and conservation. She visited the outer Louisiade Archipelago with Dr Andy in 2015 aboard True North and completed her first free dives on the outer wall of the Deboyne Atoll, and she went on to complete diploma courses in Conservation and Marine Biodiversity at Hope Academy in Alotau. In 2016 and 2017 Lorie travelled to North Queensland and completed her Advanced Scuba diver certification and studied reef survey methods with the Coral Sea Foundation team at Yunbenun (Magnetic Island). Upon returning home, Lorie held community meetings and mustered local support for the creation of the Nua Marine Reserve Network in the sensational marine biodiversity area of the Sanaroa Channel.
Lorie is a mother of two children and continues her work as an advocate for marine conservation in her clan area, educating and empowering other Indigenous women to speak up for the natural environment.
Watch Lorie's story - click the button below.
Elizabeth Basho is from Madang Province and is a fisheries science graduate from the Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources and Environment. She helps manage the Sea Women of Melanesia organization from the head office in Port Moresby.
Sereana Geno is a passionate marine conservationist from Central Province, with a degree in Fisheries and Marine Resources from the PNG University of Natural Resources and Environment. Recently she has completed her training with Sea Women of Melanesia and has expanded her skills in reef surveys and monitoring activities on the marine reserve areas of the local communities around Port Moresby in Central Province.
Rhahia Maydel Maibani hails from a culturally rich background with mixed parentage of Topura, Ware, Wamira, and Woodlark. As a child, she dreamed of becoming a marine diver and sailor, inspired by her grandfather, a master diver and navigator who sailed the seas in traditional canoes and small crafts. He was a key figure in the Kula Ring trade, connecting island communities throughout the Province through exchange of goods and culture.
However, as she grew older and left school, Rhahia's path shifted, and she began working as a businesswoman alongside her mother. Despite this, her passion for the sea never faded. She is deeply grateful to the Seawomen of Melanesia Team Leaders, Jacinta Jonathan and Martha Eimba, whose efforts in reef and fish conservation reignited her childhood dream to dive and sail the sea once more.
Today, Rhahia is excited to work with her community at Topura to establish their Locally Managed Marine Area (LMMA), a place where she once witnessed the reef's decline, the loss of fish, and the fading tradition of harvesting flying fish with simple chants. This new initiative reflects her commitment to restoring the reef and preserving her heritage for future generations.
However, as she grew older and left school, Rhahia's path shifted, and she began working as a businesswoman alongside her mother. Despite this, her passion for the sea never faded. She is deeply grateful to the Seawomen of Melanesia Team Leaders, Jacinta Jonathan and Martha Eimba, whose efforts in reef and fish conservation reignited her childhood dream to dive and sail the sea once more.
Today, Rhahia is excited to work with her community at Topura to establish their Locally Managed Marine Area (LMMA), a place where she once witnessed the reef's decline, the loss of fish, and the fading tradition of harvesting flying fish with simple chants. This new initiative reflects her commitment to restoring the reef and preserving her heritage for future generations.
Elizabeth Longa Jr. hails from the island of New Britain, and joined the Kimbe Sea Women team in 2021, driven by her passion for the ocean and the importance it holds for her community. She completed her Open Water Scuba Diver course in 2024, which deepened her appreciation for the marine environment and its vital role in our lives. Elizabeth continues to focus on training more Indigenous women and setting up marine protected marine areas, aiming to empower PNG women in coastal communities to collaborate to create a sustainable future for our oceans for generations to come.
Ellian Laily Balbal is proudly connected to both West New Britain and East New Britain provinces, with deep roots in her cultural heritage. She was raised in Ruango, a small coastal village in Kimbe, where the ocean has always been a vital part of her daily life and identity.
Ellian joined the Sea Women of Melanesia (SWoM) in 2020, driven by a strong passion for marine conservation. Since then, she has gained valuable experience in coral reef monitoring, sustainable fishing practices, and engaging with local communities to promote ocean stewardship.
In 2024, she successfully completed her scuba diving certification, enhancing her ability to observe and protect marine ecosystems firsthand. With these new skills, Ellian is more committed than ever to empowering local communities, advocating for reef conservation, and inspiring other women to take an active role in protecting the ocean.
Her journey with SWoM has been life-changing, providing her with knowledge and tools to care for the ocean not just for today, but for future generations. Ellian continues to be a passionate and dedicated advocate for marine conservation in Kimbe and beyond.
Ellian joined the Sea Women of Melanesia (SWoM) in 2020, driven by a strong passion for marine conservation. Since then, she has gained valuable experience in coral reef monitoring, sustainable fishing practices, and engaging with local communities to promote ocean stewardship.
In 2024, she successfully completed her scuba diving certification, enhancing her ability to observe and protect marine ecosystems firsthand. With these new skills, Ellian is more committed than ever to empowering local communities, advocating for reef conservation, and inspiring other women to take an active role in protecting the ocean.
Her journey with SWoM has been life-changing, providing her with knowledge and tools to care for the ocean not just for today, but for future generations. Ellian continues to be a passionate and dedicated advocate for marine conservation in Kimbe and beyond.
Liz Metta is the only daughter among four siblings. She grew up in her father’s home province of West New Britain, a patrilineal society where communities rely heavily on the sea for food and other essential resources. It was there that her love for the ocean developed, and she discovered a lifelong passion for marine conservation.
After completing Grade 12 in 2013, Liz joined a program run by the NGO Mahonia Na Dari. Following a short course in basic marine science, she continued her involvement by volunteering with the organization.
In 2018, Liz was awarded a grant from the Women Divers Hall of Fame to undertake scuba diving training at Walindi Resort. This grant supported her completion of the Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water Diver, and Rescue Diver certifications. These qualifications gave her the confidence to continue working with various NGOs and individuals who share her commitment to marine conservation.
Since joining the Sea Women of Melanesia, Liz has reconnected with other women she met during her time with Mahonia Na Dari. She is currently a member of the Kimbe-based Sea Women of Melanesia team—an active group of around ten women who conduct reef surveys in Kimbe Bay, raise awareness in coastal communities, and support the establishment of locally managed marine areas (LMMAs).
In addition to her conservation work, Liz also coordinates a humanitarian initiative for youth aged 12 to 15 called the Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program. This program offers young people a platform to explore their talents and use them to benefit their communities. Liz leads this program across both Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, working alongside dedicated individuals to support and guide the youth in these regions.
After completing Grade 12 in 2013, Liz joined a program run by the NGO Mahonia Na Dari. Following a short course in basic marine science, she continued her involvement by volunteering with the organization.
In 2018, Liz was awarded a grant from the Women Divers Hall of Fame to undertake scuba diving training at Walindi Resort. This grant supported her completion of the Open Water Diver, Advanced Open Water Diver, and Rescue Diver certifications. These qualifications gave her the confidence to continue working with various NGOs and individuals who share her commitment to marine conservation.
Since joining the Sea Women of Melanesia, Liz has reconnected with other women she met during her time with Mahonia Na Dari. She is currently a member of the Kimbe-based Sea Women of Melanesia team—an active group of around ten women who conduct reef surveys in Kimbe Bay, raise awareness in coastal communities, and support the establishment of locally managed marine areas (LMMAs).
In addition to her conservation work, Liz also coordinates a humanitarian initiative for youth aged 12 to 15 called the Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program. This program offers young people a platform to explore their talents and use them to benefit their communities. Liz leads this program across both Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, working alongside dedicated individuals to support and guide the youth in these regions.
Isabella Ivu is from Morokea and Ruango villages in Kimbe, West New Britain Province. Her family has a strong connection to the Vohi Locally Managed Marine Area (LMMA), which includes the Mowen and Grabo reefs. As one of the pioneer members of the Kimbe Sea Women of Melanesia (SWoM) team, Isabella has been involved since its founding in 2020.
Driven by a deep understanding of the importance of coral reefs to her community and a lifelong passion for environmental stewardship, Isabella has been a dedicated volunteer with SWoM. She recently completed her Open Water Scuba Diving certification with Walindi Plantation Resort, an experience that further strengthened her appreciation for the marine environment and its critical role in coastal livelihoods.
In her role with the Kimbe team, Isabella is actively supporting her home community of Morokea in developing and managing the Vohi LMMA. Her goal is to help safeguard marine resources while inspiring and empowering other local women throughout Kimbe Bay.
Isabella is committed to working closely with her team and collaborating with partner communities to build a sustainable future for the region’s marine ecosystems. She is proud to be part of a powerful movement of women working together to protect and preserve the ocean for future generations.
Driven by a deep understanding of the importance of coral reefs to her community and a lifelong passion for environmental stewardship, Isabella has been a dedicated volunteer with SWoM. She recently completed her Open Water Scuba Diving certification with Walindi Plantation Resort, an experience that further strengthened her appreciation for the marine environment and its critical role in coastal livelihoods.
In her role with the Kimbe team, Isabella is actively supporting her home community of Morokea in developing and managing the Vohi LMMA. Her goal is to help safeguard marine resources while inspiring and empowering other local women throughout Kimbe Bay.
Isabella is committed to working closely with her team and collaborating with partner communities to build a sustainable future for the region’s marine ecosystems. She is proud to be part of a powerful movement of women working together to protect and preserve the ocean for future generations.
Sheeba Koibi is a proud native of Milne Bay Province in Papua New Guinea and has deep roots in the communities of Esa’ala, East Fergusson, and Misima Island. Growing up with her grandparents in the serene village of Nade, she developed a profound admiration for the natural world, from its lush flora to its thriving marine life.
Her passion for conservation was ignited by the visible impacts of climate change on her homeland—drying rivers, submerged beaches, and declining fish populations. Witnessing these changes, Sheeba felt a strong calling to safeguard the ecosystems that are vital to her community’s way of life.
In 2024, Sheeba graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree, specializing in Biology and Chemistry, from Pacific Adventist University. Currently, she works as a trainee with Sea Women of Melanesia Inc., where she dedicates herself to the grassroots conservation efforts of the organization. She is passionate about biodiversity restoration projects and empowering indigenous women through programs designed to promote sustainability and environmental advocacy in Milne Bay Province—a cause close to her heart.
Her passion for conservation was ignited by the visible impacts of climate change on her homeland—drying rivers, submerged beaches, and declining fish populations. Witnessing these changes, Sheeba felt a strong calling to safeguard the ecosystems that are vital to her community’s way of life.
In 2024, Sheeba graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree, specializing in Biology and Chemistry, from Pacific Adventist University. Currently, she works as a trainee with Sea Women of Melanesia Inc., where she dedicates herself to the grassroots conservation efforts of the organization. She is passionate about biodiversity restoration projects and empowering indigenous women through programs designed to promote sustainability and environmental advocacy in Milne Bay Province—a cause close to her heart.