15/05/2026
From our Australia Awards scholar, Allan Sumb (Papua New Guinea):
Apart from my academic studies, I am actively involved in community work in Papua New Guinea, where I serve as Chairman of the Sinsibai Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Mt. Hagen.
Since 2019, I have led a fundraising team to build a new church valued at PGK4 million. Our parish community—mainly elderly people and subsistence farmers—has worked tirelessly, with construction now around 60% complete. Even after relocating to Australia in 2026, I continue to coordinate fundraising efforts from abroad.
The parish serves about 10,000 people in a remote area, including schools and health centres. Once completed, the church will be a place of prayer, hope, and support—especially for women and children—and a symbol of peace and unity for the community.
Inspiring to see Allans’ dedication to supporting his community back home while studying abroad—thank you for sharing your story!