Guardians of
Culture & Nature
A grassroots movement dedicated to uplifting indigenous women and preserving the natural heritage of Papua New Guinea.
Rooted in Ancestral Wisdom
HANIWAI was born from a simple truth: the people closest to the land are best positioned to protect it.
In Papua New Guinea, women are the backbone of the community and the primary custodians of biodiversity. Yet, their voices are often sidelined. We exist to change that narrative.
Our Mission
To empower indigenous women and marginalized communities in PNG through sustainable development and cultural preservation.
Our Vision
A future where humanity and nature thrive together, driven by equity and ancestral wisdom.
Commitment to SDG 2030
Gender Equality
Empowering women to lead in their communities.
TARGET: 2027Climate Action
Resilience through indigenous knowledge.
TARGET: 2030Clean Water
Sustainable access for rural villages.
TARGET: 2026Gender Equality
Empowering women to lead in their communities.
TARGET: 2027Climate Action
Resilience through indigenous knowledge.
TARGET: 2030Clean Water
Sustainable access for rural villages.
TARGET: 2026Gender Equality
Empowering women to lead in their communities.
TARGET: 2027Climate Action
Resilience through indigenous knowledge.
TARGET: 2030Clean Water
Sustainable access for rural villages.
TARGET: 2026Meet Our Leadership
Maryanne Rimbao
Founder & Director
Highlands women's rights leader for 15+ years.
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Deputy Director
Expert in safehousing and women's protection.
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Secretary
Connecting rural voices to national policy.
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Treasurer
Financial integrity and transparency expert.
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Committee Member
Driving grassroots storytelling and change.