The Grass Skirt Project, a pioneering organisation dedicated to driving social change through sport in Papua New Guinea, has been awarded an inaugural “Ignite365 Award” The awards are the first initiative of the Olympism365 Innovation Hub – a collaboration between the International Olympic Committee(IOC), Beyond Sport and Women Win to support community projects that contribute to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in innovative ways.

‍

Grant Details and Recognition

The Grass Skirt Project is one of five organisations selected from over 200 applications spanning 86 countries. Each winner will receive an initial grant of USD $10,000 to boost their projects, along with tailored training, engagement opportunities, and access to a growing network of collaborators.

Innovative Approach to Social Change

The Grass Skirt Project stands out for its unique approach to addressing gender equality and community development in Papua New Guinea.

Gymbox: The organisation repurposes shipping containers into mobile, sustainable fitness facilities and community areas. This innovative solution provides:

- Improved health outcomes

- Reduced gender-based violence

- Accessible community spaces

‍

10 Million StrongLeadership Programme: This initiative focuses on gender justice and violence prevention, aiming to transform attitudes towards gender equality, particularly among young people.

Impact and Future Prospects

Tahina Booth, Managing Director and founder of the GrassSkirt Project expressed enthusiasm about the award: "Being selected for the Olympism365 Innovation Hub investment empowers Grass Skirt Project to enhance our Gymbox and 10 Million Strong programme, fostering safer communities and gender equality through sports".

The organisation's commitment to empowering men, boys, and their sisters through education, sports, and community engagement aligns with the goal of the Olympism365 Innovation Hub to advance innovation in sport for social development. With this grant, the Grass Skirt Project is poised to expand its impact and continue its mission of using sport as a catalyst for positive social change in Papua New Guinea.

This recognition by the IOC, Beyond Sport and Women Win not only provides financial support but also offers valuable networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities, potentially amplifying the project's reach and effectiveness in promoting gender equality and community development through sport.

‍