Stella Ipang, a PATH Outstanding Member and leader in Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI), has been named the 2026 Overall Winner of the Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA), receiving a PGK10,000 grant in recognition of her work strengthening inclusive healthcare across Papua New Guinea.
Stella, who also won the Private Sector Category, was recognised for her leadership in embedding GEDSI principles into Papua New Guinea’s immunisation sector. Her work has helped make health programmes more inclusive, accessible and accountable for women, children and marginalised communities.
At a celebratory cheque presentation at Westpac’s head office at Harbourside West, Stella was presented with a ceremonial cheque acknowledging her contribution to advancing inclusion and improving health outcomes across the country.
Through her work with PATH, Stella has helped integrate inclusive approaches into immunisation programmes, including the development of a GEDSI Action Plan and scorecard assessment for Provincial Health Authorities. These practical tools support health teams in assessing programmes, identifying gaps, strengthening accountability and improving access for communities that may otherwise be left behind.
Beyond her professional achievements, Stella is also the creator of the GEDSI EmpowerMe Puzzle, which has been showcased internationally, and the author of My Action Words. These creative resources make inclusion, empowerment and agency easier to understand and apply across different audiences, including health workers, communities and young readers.
“Receiving this award is an honour,” said Stella following her win. “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 Pacific Managing Director Emma Low congratulated Stella on her achievement, saying, “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.”
Westpac PNG Chief Executive Andrew Cairns said the awards continue to recognise women whose leadership and service are helping shape a stronger future for Papua New Guinea.
“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.”
Stella’s recognition follows a strong 2026 awards programme, with more than 200 nominations received from across Papua New Guinea. The awards celebrated seven category winners across Entrepreneur, Not-for-Profit, Private Sector, Public Sector, Sports & Arts, Sustainability and Young Achiever.
The 2026 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 PGK5,000 grant and will attend an Australian executive leadership symposium in 2026 or 2027.
The Westpac Outstanding Women Awards (WOWA) is Papua New Guinea’s premier programme celebrating the achievements and leadership of exceptional women across the country. Commencing in 2002, the awards are designed to recognise and empower women who are making significant contributions in their communities, workplaces and industries.
