On 24 February the Australian High Commission will virtually launch the short film The Bilum Story, celebrating the remarkable PNG women social entrepreneurs who 10 years ago began to shine a spotlight on bilum as a national treasure, whilst driving inclusive economic growth for women weavers.
The bilum story is an incredible example of the transformative power of the creative and cultural industry. It shows just what is possible when emerging entrepreneurs have effective access to international markets, support to strengthen their supply chains and are empowered to share their creativity and culture with the world.
Australia through the PNG-Australia Partnership has supported entrepreneurs like Florence Jaukae Kamel and her vision for the Goroka Bilum Festival by providing strategic capacity building along the bilum value chain. Pacific Trade Invest Australia helped Florence and key artisans to take bilum to the world stage and find international buyers.
The film explores how with a little help, the entrepreneurship and vision of these women can lead to great commercial success and inclusive economic growth. There is now a network of over a thousand weavers across the country, exporting bilum to the world and increasing their income and wellbeing through culture and community.
As the film celebrates the achievements to date, it is hoped that this story will inspire more focus and investment into PNG’s rich creative and cultural industry potential.
The Bilum Story film will be released with a virtual screening from 24 Feb – 10 March 2022.
For more information about the film and virtual screening, visit www.thebilumstory.com
With a little help, the entrepreneurship and vision of these women can lead to great commercial success and inclusive economic growth.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100