Australia Awards Vanuatu alumnus, Sowany Joseph Matou, recently represented Vanuatu at the Governance Leadership Conference 2025 in Sydney, Australia. The event brought together global leaders and governance experts under the theme ‘Leading Purposefully Through Global Headwinds’.
Recently appointed as CEO of the newly established Commercial Investment Unit (CIU), Sowany joined peers from across industries to explore the evolving responsibilities of boards and leadership in an era marked by economic instability, climate change, and rapid technological disruption. The conference emphasised the urgent need for boards to transition from oversight roles to becoming active stewards of resilience, accountability, and ethical leadership.
For Sowany, the conference was more than an intellectual exercise — it was a transformative professional experience. A major highlight was the Board Secretary Panel, where governance experts shared strategies for strengthening board operations. Discussions centred on the shift of board secretaries from administrative support to strategic advisors, underscoring the importance of clear communication, preparation, and follow-through. Sowany noted that this session provided actionable insights he intends to adapt for strengthening governance practices within Vanuatu.
The role of artificial intelligence (AI) also featured prominently in the program. Speakers showcased how AI is reshaping board operations, from automating minutes and managing documentation to supporting predictive decision-making. Yet, the message was clear: AI cannot replace human judgment, ethics, or leadership. This balanced perspective resonated strongly with Sowany, who observed the importance of integrating innovation responsibly while ensuring that governance remains grounded in human values.
Beyond the sessions, the event fostered invaluable networking opportunities. Sowany engaged directly with presenters, innovators, and industry leaders, sparking conversations about potential partnerships with Vanuatu’s State-Owned Enterprises. These connections, he reflected, could pave the way for collaborations that enhance the resilience and effectiveness of Vanuatu’s governance landscape.
Reflecting on the experience, Sowany noted that one of the key takeaways was how “it reaffirmed the importance of continuous learning and collaboration in driving excellence within organisations,” praising its practical focus and forward-looking insights.
For Sowany, this experience reaffirmed his commitment to advancing governance excellence in Vanuatu. Equipped with new tools, ideas, and connections, he is eager to translate lessons learned into meaningful improvements at home—driving purpose – driven leadership for a more sustainable and resilient future.