The Pacific region’s next generation of rugby commentators and content creators have come together as part of an initiative led by Oceania Rugby and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).
The Oceania Rugby Commentary & Mobile Journalism Program (CAMP) is underway in Sigatoka, Fiji this week, with women in sport media from across the Pacific coming together to hone their skills in commentary, sports reporting and production. The initiative falls under Rise Rugby, a program supported by PacificAus Sports through the Australian Government. The group of eight participating women hail from Cook Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Solomon Islands.
A host of leading names are providing guidance, mentoring and support as part of the program, including renowned rugby commentator Rikki Swannell, World Rugby content creator Arizona Leger and former Fiji players Lailanie Burnes and Kuini Vuli.
Participants in the CAMP include Papua New Guinea’s Jamie Haro – who was recently named as one of the Emerging Leaders in Women's Sports in the Pacific, and is putting her commentary skills into action in Papua New Guinea – as well as Gabrielle Apelu, one of the pioneers of women's rugby in Samoa.
“This group of women have much in common; they’re proud Pacific women, they are talented sports journalists and broadcasters, and of course; they live and breathe rugby,” said Sally Eeles, Project Manager for ABC International Development.
“We’re excited to be coming together with Oceania Rugby to create a platform for women to hone their commentary and reporting craft, and to build a team of leading Pacific voices that learn and thrive, together.”
“It’s been incredible to see the CAMP program come to life and to witness the impact it’s already having on these talented women. From over 70 applications across the region, we’ve welcomed a dynamic group who have arrived in Fiji eager to learn and grow alongside an exceptional panel of media experts,” said Sheridan Graham-Tupaea, Senior Manager Women’s Rugby Projects, Oceania Rugby.
“I’m excited knowing we’re building a strong, capable cohort of women in rugby media. As we look toward both World Cups being hosted in our region, it’s truly an exciting time to hear their voices and share their stories with the world.”
Frank Puletua, Oceania Rugby General Manager, stated, “This initiative aligns with our vision to foster diverse talent, promote gender equality, and showcase the incredible stories of rugby across the region. We are committed to providing opportunities that elevate voices and create lasting impact in our sport.”
The CAMP – the result of a partnership between Oceania Rugby and ABC International Development, the ABC’s media development unit – will see the group honing their craft on the sidelines of a series of matches at the Oceania Women's Championship and Oceania Under-20s Championship in Sigatoka and Nadi.
A team of broadcasters from Timor Leste will also be hosted during the Championships as they learn about live sports broadcasting from Fiji Broadcasting Corporation and Mai TV, supported by ABC International Development and welcomed by Oceania Rugby.
