When 19-year-old Lena Aigea walked barefoot each day from her village in Eastern Highlands to attend secondary school, she never imagined that one day she would be boarding a flight to study in Australia. But in 2024, that dream became reality — thanks to a fully funded Australia Awards Scholarship.

Raised in a humble farming family, Lena’s passion for education began in a small bamboo classroom where books were scarce but dreams were abundant. She excelled in her studies and often stayed behind to tutor her peers. Her perseverance paid off when she topped her Grade 12 class and caught the attention of a guidance counselor who introduced her to international scholarship opportunities.

“I didn’t know scholarships like this existed,” Lena recalled. “But when I found out, I told myself — this is my ticket to change my life and give back to my community.”

After months of preparation, recommendation letters, and essays, Lena submitted her application. Weeks later, she received the news: she had been accepted to pursue a Bachelor of Environmental Science at the University of Queensland.

“I cried. I couldn’t believe it. I was the first in my family to leave the country, let alone attend university abroad.”

Now in her second semester, Lena is thriving — learning from world-class professors, participating in research projects, and even representing Papua New Guinea at student forums.

Her story is not just about personal success, but a powerful reminder to young Papua New Guineans that scholarships are more than financial aid — they are pathways to purpose.

“I want to return to PNG and help rural communities manage climate change and land use sustainably,” Lena says. “That’s the promise I made — to use this gift to uplift others.”