Biography:
Joanne Clarkson is Deputy Commissioner of Police, one of the top three positions in the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary. She is the first woman to reach this level in the organization.
Early life
Joanne Clarkson was born in Manus Province in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Her father died when she was still unborn and her mother later remarried to John Clarkson, an Australian, whose surname Joanne took. In 1996, at the age of 19, she was working as a teacher’s assistant at the Our Lady of Sacred Heart International School (OLSH) in Kavieng, New Ireland Province when her parents applied for her to take part in a training program to become a member of the police force. Successful, she took part in cadet officer training at Bomana in Port Moresby, PNG’s National Capital District, from 1996 to 1998. There were 25 women in her squad at the start of training, but only 15 graduated, and she was the only woman. She was the top student in the squad.
Career
After graduating, Clarkson worked at a local police station in Port Moresby before being transferred to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary headquarters to work in the field of corporate planning. Although she had wanted to work on criminal investigation, she accepted this move reluctantly. She stayed at the headquarters for 13 years, earning successive promotions and working on activities such as managing the force’s strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation, and budgeting. In 2013, she became the first woman to be promoted to Chief Superintendent. From 2015 to 2019, she worked in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville as the chief of police, being appointed as Assistant Commissioner in 2016. She then returned to the capital as Deputy Commissioner of Police (Administration). In 2021, she was appointed as one of the three members of the Police Promotions and Appointments Board, chaired by Dame Jean Kekedo.
Influence on society
Joanne Clarkson’s position as the first woman to be appointed as Deputy Commissioner of Police in the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary is a major milestone for gender equality and women’s representation in the police force. Her dedication, hard work, and exemplary performance have shattered glass ceilings and served as an inspiration to women across the country. By occupying such a high-ranking position, Clarkson has become a role model, proving that women can excel in traditionally male-dominated fields and contribute to law enforcement and nation-building.
Motivations and inspirations
Clarkson’s motivations and inspirations stem from her desire to serve her community and make a difference in society. Growing up in Papua New Guinea, she witnessed the challenges faced by her community and experienced firsthand the impact of crime and violence. These experiences fueled her determination to join the police force and work towards creating a safer environment for her fellow citizens. Moreover, she is driven by a deep commitment to justice and maintaining law and order, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender, are treated fairly and protected from harm.
Role in women’s history
Joanne Clarkson’s achievements and groundbreaking role in the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary make her a significant figure in women’s history. Through her accomplishments, she has broken down barriers, challenged gender norms, and paved the way for other women to pursue careers in law enforcement. Her story highlights the importance of gender equality and the need for diverse representation within the police force and other institutions. Clarkson’s journey serves as a reminder of the resilience, strength, and capabilities of women, emphasizing their rightful place in positions of leadership and authority.
Awards:
– Queen’s Police Medal (2016 Birthday Honours) by Queen Elizabeth II.