We are thrilled to announce the launch of the 10 Million Strong Pilot Leadership program, an innovative initiative developed by Grass Skirt Project in collaboration with esteemed academics from the University of Texas. This program is a groundbreaking effort aimed at transforming attitudes and behaviors towards gender-based violence (GBV) among young people.
As we embark on this important journey, it is essential to note that the 10 Million Strong program is currently in its pilot phase. We have chosen Hanuabada Village in Port Moresby as the inaugural location to implement and evaluate the program’s impact. Hanuabada will serve as a microcosm of the wider Papua New Guinean context, allowing us to tailor our approach to the unique needs of this community.
The 10 Million Strong program is a 12-week leadership and sports-based curriculum designed specifically for schoolchildren in years 9. By leveraging the power of sports as a catalyst for positive change, we aim to empower participants, nurture resilience, and foster a culture that rejects violence while promoting gender equality.
This pilot program centers not only on addressing the experiences of victims and offenders but also on engaging the millions who witness violence without adequate tools to intervene. By equipping young minds with the necessary skills to safely and meaningfully intervene in instances of GBV, we aspire to create a ripple effect of behavioral change that extends beyond the classroom and into the broader community.
Throughout the pilot phase, we will closely monitor and evaluate the program’s progress, collecting valuable data and insights. We are committed to transparency and accountability, and we will publish the results and outcomes of the 10 Million Strong program at the end of 2023. This will provide stakeholders, supporters, and the wider community with an opportunity to assess the program’s effectiveness and contribute to our ongoing efforts.
Looking ahead, Grass Skirt Project is eager to expand the reach of the 10 Million Strong program in 2024. Our goal is to extend this impactful initiative to additional schools and communities across Papua New Guinea, fostering a nationwide movement to eradicate gender-based violence and empower young individuals to become agents of positive change.
We invite you to join us in this transformative endeavor. Together, we can create a brighter future, free from violence, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to a more inclusive society.
For more information about the 10 Million Strong program click here to be directed to our program director.
Contact: info@grassskirtproject.colonygroup.co
Impact Results: To be shared Q1 2024