PNG Prime Minister James Marape has congratulated Sheilla Yama after the Papua New Guinean female boxer retained her IBF International Super Lightweight title.
Yama claimed the victory over Australian challenger Jessica Messina in Auckland, New Zealand, extending her unbeaten professional record to 8-0.
The victory came last night at Eventfinda Stadium in Auckland, where Yama successfully defended her IBF International title in a bout that also brings her closer to an IBF world title elimination match.
The bout was broadcast live across Papua New Guinea through the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), starting with the main card at 5:00pm PNG Time (AEST).
Prime Minister Marape in a statement this afternoon said Yama’s independent path to professional sports serves as a practical model for the nation’s youth.
“I am very proud of this young lady. She is humble and professional, and is a great ambassador for Papua New Guinea,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“Without waiting for government, community, or parental support, she has dedicated her life to pursuing a sporting career that she has a passion and love for.”
Prime Minister Marape said Yama’s career path highlights the importance of individual initiative and self-reliance, qualities his administration views as essential for national development.
He urged young Papua New Guineans to adopt a similar proactive mindset across different sectors.
“Sheilla’s journey from a regular upbringing to an undefeated international standing demonstrates what can be achieved through personal discipline,” the Prime Minister stated.
“To the young generation of Papua New Guinea: let Sheilla’s example serve as a guide.
Whether your focus is sports, agriculture, education, or micro-enterprise, success requires personal ownership.
“We must move away from a culture of dependency. When you discover your field of interest, do not wait for external support from government or your community to begin.
Enter your field with humility, maintain professional standards, endure the initial hardships, and rely on your own skills and work ethic.”
Prime Minister Marape also acknowledged NBC for its nationwide coverage of the event, which allowed Papua New Guineans to follow the match, and wished Yama and her management team the best as they prepare for her upcoming international fixtures.
Yama, who shares family ties across the Western Highlands, Oro, and Morobe provinces, grew up in a large household.
She completed university before entering a local boxing gym at age 25 for physical conditioning.
To transition from the amateur ranks to the professional circuit, Yama relocated to Hamilton, New Zealand.
During the early stages of her professional career, she funded her training by working shifts as a registered nurse and healthcare assistant.
Yama is currently affiliated with the PNG Boxing Union (PNGBU) under President Gideon Kendino and trains under former professional boxer Cairo George at Team George Boxing/Hit Fitness HQ.
Since turning professional, Yama has steadily risen through the regional rankings, capturing a Professional Boxing Commission (PBC) title in 2025 before securing her current IBF belt in May 2026.