Inspiring women recognised at the 2026 Westpac Outstanding Women Awards

The winners of this year’s Westpac Outstanding Women Awards. Credit: Westpac

This year, more than 200 nominations were received from across the country. The winners were recognised across seven categories: Entrepreneurship, Not-for-Profit, Private Sector, Public Sector, Sports & Arts, Sustainability and Young Achiever. Their stories show the talent, courage and positive influence of women who continue to help move Papua New Guinea forward.

The 2026 Overall Winner was Stella Ipang. Stella also won the Private Sector Category and was recognised for her leadership in advancing Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) across Papua New Guinea’s immunisation sector. Her work has helped support more inclusive healthcare for women, children and marginalised communities.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Westpac Board Chairwoman Tamzin Wardley said: “As Chairwoman of the Board, I am incredibly proud to celebrate the women recognised through these awards. Their achievements demonstrate the power of leadership and resilience to create meaningful change in our communities. The Westpac Outstanding Women Awards recognise women who are breaking barriers, creating opportunities for others and helping shape a stronger future for our nation.”

The seven category winners were:

• Entrepreneur Category – Martha Raka

• Not-for-Profit Category – Jacqueline Mary Boga Garoau

• Private Sector Category – Stella Ipang

• Public Sector Category – Elizabeth Tandoa

• Sustainability Category – Emma Oliver

• Sports & Arts Category – Wosi Kaeyo

• Young Achiever Category – Getta Kambar

As Overall Winner, Stella will receive a PGK 5,000 grant and a full-year mentorship program with Westpac PNG. She will also attend an Australian executive leadership symposium in 2026 or 2027.

Emma Low, Managing Director for Westpac Pacific, said: “Stella’s commitment to advancing inclusion and improving health outcomes has created tangible benefits for communities across Papua New Guinea. Her achievements stood out among an exceptional group of finalists and reflect the spirit of these awards.”

Reflecting on the recognition, Stella Ipang said: “Receiving this award is an honour. I am grateful to do work that has a positive impact on our community. I hope this recognition encourages more women and young girls to pursue their ambitions, embrace leadership opportunities and believe in their ability to make a difference.”

Westpac PNG is proud to celebrate these outstanding women and the work they continue to do for their families, communities and the country.

Chief Executive for Westpac PNG, Andrew Cairns said: “At Westpac PNG, we are proud to recognise these outstanding women and the positive impact they are making across the country. Their leadership, courage and commitment show what is possible when people step forward to serve their communities and help build a stronger Papua New Guinea. I congratulate all the finalists and winners, and thank them for the difference they continue to make.”