INSPIRED BY OPPORTUNITY; DRIVEN BY FAITH AND PASSION, YOUNG CHARLIE ROY SHARES HIS STORY
PICTURE CAPTION: Charlie Roy the 2025 National Youth Mock Parliament (NYMP25) program.
BY LETHISA KOLOKOL
YOUNG people have the potential to offer practical solutions to some of the major issues in Papua New Guinea, yet many are not given the chance.
Determined to change that, one of those patriotic youths is Charlie Roy, a young man from Milne Bay Province who is passionate about bringing change to his home province and the country as a whole which he believed that it is time to stand up and be the changemaker.
Charlie, the eldest of three siblings, hails from Ikara Ward in Weraura LLG, within the Rabaraba/Baniara Sub-District of Alotau District, Milne Bay Province. He belongs to the Umanakaina-speaking community and proudly upholds his cultural heritage.
Like many other youths in the country, Charlie completed Grade 12 in 2021 at Holy Name Secondary School in Dogura. However, financial limitations prevented him from pursuing further studies.
“The pressure of going back to school was overwhelming, but there was nothing I could do at that moment. I turned to football as my refuge a way to cope and pursue my dream of representing my province and my country.
I longed for opportunities, but support was scarce. I applied to the government for assistance and hunted for jobs to fund my future, but every door seemed closed. I remember one painful day at the Milne Bay Provincial Government centre when I cried for school fees after being turned away by security. In that moment, I made a promise to myself that one day, I would enter that office, and no one would stop me,” Charlie recalled.
That promise drove him to apply for the 2025 National Youth Mock Parliament (NYMP25), an annual program where young leaders simulate the country’s legislative process.
Participants learn about governance, debate critical issues such as anti-corruption and health and develop leadership skills through hands-on experience in lawmaking and public speaking.
Out of 430 applicants, Charlie was among the 59 successful candidates that was selected.
“I stood among them as a simple Grade 12 school leaver with no further education. At times, I felt small and unworthy, but I always reminded myself that God does not call the qualified He qualifies the called,” he shared.
Charlie was impressed with the professionalism and dedication of everyone involved, noting that the sessions were well-organized and guided participants through the parliamentary process that includes drafting motions, presenting arguments and voting on proposals.
“One of the highlights for me was the opportunity to interact with like-minded peers who are passionate about making positive changes in our communities,” he said.
The National Youth Mock Parliament is more than just a simulation it is a stepping stone for future leaders, empowering them to understand the importance of participation, dialogue, and collaboration in shaping policies that affect society.
“I am a Grade 12 school leaver. I tried and somehow I was selected. I believe it’s because I have been advocating for youths and standing against corruption in my own province, and also using my passion for football to unite young people. It has always been my dream to step into Parliament House not for status, but to be a voice for my people,” Charlie expressed.
He thanked the facilitators, organizations and government for the opportunity.
“I genuinely feel something different in my heart that God’s hand was upon this journey, and that our selection was not by accident,” he said.
Aside from being a participant in NYMP25, Charlie is a young man of steadfast faith and a passionate footballer who wants to work alongside local leaders to make a positive difference.
Returning home to Milne Bay, Charlie is working on his first project write-up titled Ikara Ward Youth Peace and Restoration Initiative.
He explained that “Ikara Ward is facing increasing social challenges, especially among our young people. Many youths are becoming involved in drug and alcohol abuse, petty crime, violent behaviour, and sorcery-related accusations. These issues have created fear, broken relationships, and weakened unity and trust within our community.”
Another major issue is high youth unemployment. The lack of structured youth programs and limited access to positive activities have left many young people idle and vulnerable to negative influences.As a result, community peace, safety, and social harmony are at risk.
Charlie hopes to begin the initiative at the ward level and if successful, expand it to the LLG, district and eventually provincial level.
“Now it’s time to use our voices and continue doing the work we’ve already been doing in our own provinces. Let us forgive the negativity and focus on creating positive change for our youths, our communities and our country,” Charlie shared.
He is humbly seeking assistance and guidance from friends, partners and well-wishers. Anyone connected to an organization or with knowledge on how to apply for funding or support for this community project is encouraged to lend their advice and support.
