BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands basketball administrator Gloria Hong is bringing home fresh ideas and renewed purpose after completing a high-level internship in Australia, as part of her ongoing leadership journey through FIBA’s Women LEAD Basketball Program.
Hong, a board member of the Solomon Islands Basketball Federation, recently undertook a placement with Hills Basketball Association in Sydney, where she gained hands-on experience in governance, competition management and community program delivery within a well-established basketball system.
The opportunity, supported through FIBA Oceania’s partnership with PacificAus Sports, marks a significant step forward not only for Hong personally, but for the advancement of women in sport across the Solomon Islands.
Speaking on her experience, Hong said the exposure has strengthened her confidence and vision as a leader.
“Being here means everything to me… it means that yes, if I can do this, it’s possible for the next,” she said.
During her time in Australia, Hong engaged with staff across multiple departments, observing how structured systems and collaborative approaches drive the growth of the game at community level.
“Coming here, I’ve had a lot of conversations with the staff… I’ve seen first-hand how things are being managed,” she said.
She added that the knowledge gained will be vital when she returns home to contribute more effectively at board level.
Hong’s leadership drive is rooted in her desire to create more opportunities for women in the Solomon Islands, where access to sport and leadership pathways can be limited.
“My big inspiration… is the women back home in the Solomons. They inspire me to be here, to keep breaking barriers,” she said.
FIBA Oceania Executive Director Amanda Jenkins acknowledged Hong’s commitment, saying her progress highlights the importance of investing in female leadership.
“Her internship demonstrates how practical exposure, combined with the Women LEAD Program, equips emerging leaders with the confidence and capability to drive positive change,” Jenkins said.
As she prepares to return, Hong’s focus is clear — to use her experience to help strengthen governance and create safer, more inclusive spaces for women in basketball.
“What’s next is to go back and make sure we start the conversation, creating opportunities where women can be elevated,” she said.
Hong’s achievement reflects a growing push to empower women in sport across the region, with structured programs now opening doors for Pacific administrators to gain international experience.
PacificAus Sports, an Australian Government initiative, continues to support such pathways by linking Pacific nations with elite training environments and development opportunities, helping to build stronger sporting systems across Oceania.
Photo: Supplied
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