13/04/2026
From Village boy to Degree
My name is Yancy Yamo, from Samberigi (Kati) in Kagua Erave District, Southern Highlands Province. I grew up in a small village, and I was the first in my family and community to reach university. That was a breakthrough for my family and my generation, and I set a benchmark for others to follow.
Life at university was not easy. I faced many family challenges, but I never saw them as a downfall. Instead, I treated them as open doors, opportunities and stepping stones to excel in life. Challenges became my motivation.
Because I had more time at university, I decided to work at night as a security guard and attend classes during the day. While many students wasted their nights on Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok, I made my 12 hours count. Every night I earned K60, while others wasted time and later struggled to find money. My nights were productive, and my days were focused on learning.
I also held many leadership roles:
- ENBP TSCF President
- CA President
- PNG UNRE TSCF Media, External, and Public Relations Coordinator
- HESO Spiritual Leader
Even with all these responsibilities, I managed my time well. I never missed my duties because I set my priorities right. My three key priorities were education, work, and family. I avoided distractions like girlfriends or unnecessary activities. I put God first and priorities last.
In the end, I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Agribusiness and Management with Merit. My journey shows that challenges are not barriers, they are opportunities.
My Message to You all
- Don’t see challenges as reasons to fall back. See them as open doors.
- Set your priorities right
- Don’t waste time. Make every hour counts.
- Not all closed doors are truly closed; sometimes they just need a little push.
Your struggles can become your strength. If I can rise from a small village to university while working nights as a security guard, you too can turn your challenges into opportunities.
