A kaleidoscope of colours, rhythm, and reflection unfolded at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium yesterday 05th of July 2025 as Southern Region Day officially opened the month-long PNG Story celebrations in honour of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. Under the uniting theme “One Drum, Many Echoes,” the Southern Region showcased the full strength of its cultural pride and creative expression, drawing crowds from across the city. Twelve singsing groups and six cultural string bands from the provinces of Central, Gulf, Western, Oro, and Milne Bay lit up the stadium grounds with traditional dances, chants, and musical storytelling as part of the day's program. The performances were more than entertainment as they were powerful expressions of identity and unity. However, it was a raw and moving stage performance that blended cultural and modern elements, titled 'Where Do We Go from Here?' by the Kove Arts Theatre Youths, that stood out—bringing the crowd to silence with its deep and timely message. Written and directed by Kove Arts Theatre Director and Founder Rodney Kove, the drama challenged Papua New Guineans to reflect on their collective journey after 49 years of independence and consider where the nation is heading in its next chapter. “These young people you saw performing, some of them live on the streets. I gathered them from all over the provinces. In two weeks, we wrote and rehearsed this play,” Kove shared. “They spoke from their hearts. It’s their story. It’s our country.” In a symbolic crossroads formation, the youths posed critical questions to public servants, politicians, and everyday citizens by urging unity, accountability, and compassion. “One of the lines says it all: ‘Our Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare placed us all in one basket called Papua New Guinea.’ That’s a reminder. We may have 865 languages, but we are still one nation. We must act like it,” said Kove. A banner displayed and carried on stage captured the central message: “UNITY IN DIVERSITY, WITH 865 LANGUAGES: YOUR COUNTRY, MY COUNTRY, OUR COUNTRY. GOD BLESS PNG.” The message was translated into four local languages representing each region—Bunja from Oro (Southern), Manus (Islands), a language from Momase, and one from Gulf Province, each highlighting inclusivity and shared identity. Kove continues to work with vulnerable youth through theatre, paying them for their involvement and nurturing their talents. “This wasn’t just a performance—it was healing, expression, and purpose. We have to look after our children now, before they end up on the streets. That’s what this play is about,” he added. While the drama left many in deep thought, the day overall was a joyful celebration of Southern identity. From the lively kundu beats of Gulf Province to the graceful canoe dances of Milne Bay, and the rhythmic storytelling of Central’s string bands, the Southern Region proudly echoed the PNG Story’s call for unity and cultural pride. As the PNG Story continues throughout July—with region days for Niugini Islands, Highlands, and Momase all stands, the message from the South is clear: Culture connects, and youth voices matter.