This fellowship has enabled the engagement of a young and passionate individual on a 12 month fellowship. Ben was able to interact with different government stakeholders and SGP grantees, discuss the challenges they face with accessing financial resources and distribution respectively.

Amidst his meetings, it was discovered that a CSO & Government already exists in PNG that could potentially be used as a platform for indigenous concerns to be raised. This platform is being facilitated through an office that was established through a NEC government decision but lacks government funding to fulfill its intended role and function.

A survey was undertaken with a range of stakeholders and results presented in the fellows report together with recommendations on how IP concerns can be addressed, in particular with the challenges they face in respect to sourcing funding and implementing local development initiatives.

The fellow used the facilitites of SGP and in doing so, assisted with review of applications received during a call for proposal, enabling the fellow to learn how evaluations are conducted on proposals received, the criteria for assessment and the process through which grants are awarded and disbursed. While he could not actively participate in the operations aspect, he has acquired adequate knowledge on SGP process during his time. Ben was also included in various UNDP activities learning work ethics, and working in a multicultural environment with a range of professionals.

The fellow was very fortunate to have been supported on two occassions to attend meetings in New York and Fiji, in his capacity as an SGP Fellow. It is hoped that with the networks established, he will continue this IP work in future roles.