Overview:
The Palau National Olympic Committee has launched its new RISE Training Program, bringing together state leaders, teachers, and sports federations for a week of coaching, leadership, and safeguarding workshops. The initiative, supported by ONOC and national agencies, aims to build safer, more inclusive community sports environments across Palau.
Koror, Palau — The Palau National Olympic Committee (PNOC) has kicked off the Raising Innovative Sport Enablers (RISE) Training Program, a week-long initiative aimed at strengthening community sports leadership and promoting holistic wellbeing in sports.
Launched in partnership with the Oceania National Olympic Committees (ONOC) through its Oceania Sports Education Program (OSEP), the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MHHS), and the Ministry of Education (MOE), the program brings together State Government representatives, Palau High School staff, and members of national sports federations for a series of workshops designed to build stronger, safer, and more inclusive sports communities across Palau.
The RISE Training features a mix of certified and locally led sessions covering:
- Sports in Communities Administration — led by OSEP Delegate Stephanie Ngirchoimei
- Community Coaching — led by OSEP’s Jubilee Kuartei
- Emotional Intelligence — presented by MHHS’ Amanda Shiro
- Safeguarding — conducted by PNOC Board Member and newly certified Safeguarding Officer Dr. Judy Otto
- Leadership — facilitated by Maxwell Leadership Coach Sainimili Saukuru
In her opening remarks, PNOC Secretary General Baklai Temengil emphasized the organization’s holistic approach to wellbeing in sports, noting that developing leaders with empathy, emotional awareness, and safeguarding knowledge is key to fostering safe and thriving sporting environments.
The RISE initiative is part of the broader RISE Project, supported by the Australian Government through the Pacific Community’s Pacific Women Lead Program, and aligns with PNOC’s vision of “Excellence Through Sports.”
Training sessions will continue throughout the week, guided by OSEP facilitators, local mentors, and partner agencies, as Palau works to build a stronger foundation for its community sports leaders. (Source: PNOC)