WESTPAC REVIVES PRESTIGIOUS OUTSTANDING WOMEN AWARDS

As the country celebrates its 50th anniversary, Westpac is proud to officially announce the relaunch of the
Westpac Outstanding Women (WOW) Awards 2025, the country’s premier platform for recognising the
achievements of exceptional women.

After a five-year hiatus, this prestigious awards program returns with a renewed vision, new award categories, and a refreshed creative concept, reflecting the evolving landscape of female leadership and excellence in Papua New Guinea.

Speaking at the media launch event, Westpac Pacific Managing Director, Emma Low, highlighted the significance of bringing back the WOW Awards, a platform that has honoured PNG’s most outstanding women since its inception in 2006.

“Women are at the heart of our communities, businesses, and economy. The WOW Awards are not just about recognition, they are about amplifying voices, creating opportunities, and inspiring the next generation of female leaders. After five years, we are proud to relaunch this important program and continue our commitment to empowering the women of Papua New Guinea,” said Ms. Low.

The return of the awards in 2025 marks a renewed effort by Westpac PNG to champion the contributions of women across various sectors, from business and education to healthcare, innovation, and community leadership.

What’s New for WOW 2025?

The 2025 WOW Awards will feature:

• New award categories to recognise emerging leaders, women in innovation, and grassroots
  changemakers, ensuring a broader and more inclusive celebration of excellence. 2025 categories
  are: Public Sector Award, Entrepreneur Award, Sports & Art Award, Private Sector Award,
  Sustainability Award, Not-for-Profit Award, Young Achiever Award, and Overall Winner Award.
• A revamped creative concept, which symbolises the strength, resilience, and vision of PNG women will
  be showcased across all award materials.
• More opportunities for public engagement, with a nationwide call for nominations to encourage
  participation from all regions and industries.
  Ms. Low emphasised that the WOW Awards are not just about celebrating individual success but also about
  shining a light on the collective strength of PNG women and ensuring their contributions are recognised at
  every level of society.
  “The WOW Awards have always been more than just an event. They represent a movement – a platform that
  tells the stories of trailblazers, pioneers, and change-makers. We want to encourage more women to step
  forward, share their journeys, and be celebrated for their impact.”