Youth Lead PNG is a growing, youth-led network representing young key populations and young people living with HIV in Papua New Guinea. Guided and mentored by KPAC PNG and its member networks, Youth Lead PNG exists to ensure that young people are not only included in the national health response—but are actively leading it.
The network provides a platform for youth voices, leadership development, and meaningful engagement in the HIV, SRHR (sexual and reproductive health and rights), and human rights landscape across the country.
“Where youth lead, change follows.
Advocacy for Oral PrEP Access
Youth Lead PNG played a leading role in advocating for the introduction of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in key provinces including National Capital District (NCD), Eastern Highlands, and Morobe.
This effort was made possible through collaboration with the National Department of Health (NDoH), UNAIDS, USAID, FHI 360, and local Provincial Health Authorities (PHAs).
Youth Training in Community-Based Screening (CBS)
To make HIV and STI testing more accessible, Youth Lead PNG trained peer educators and youth leaders in Community-Based Screening (CBS) methods.
This enabled testing to be brought directly into homes and communities—reducing barriers such as stigma, clinic wait times, and transport costs.
Implementation of Community-Led Monitoring (CLM)
Youth Lead PNG has also implemented CLM initiatives specifically tailored for youth contexts. Community members, especially young people, were trained to collect, analyze, and present data on health service delivery—ensuring that youth voices contribute directly to improving the quality, accessibility, and responsiveness of HIV and health services.
Youth Lead PNG continues to demonstrate that young people are not just beneficiaries—but change agents, shaping the future of health and rights in Papua New Guinea.
30
Workshops
Advocacy Event
By equipping young key population communities with leadership, education, and advocacy tools, Youth LEAD PNG is strengthening the voice and agency of youth in shaping Papua New Guinea’s health and rights landscape.
