In this paper, the authors examine the socially engaged practices of human rights-based organisations in Papua New Guinea (PNG) as they perform, stage and engage with communities to unsettle and challenge contemporary justifications of gender-based violence and malice.

Specifically, they explore Yumi Sanap Strong (Let’s Stand Together), a PNG national initiative and a repertoire of curated performances and experiences that navigate the complexities of contemporary cultural and social engagements to create alternative narratives for change. Creative practice processes are re-imagined and restaged harnessing indigenous performances, and resulting in the affectual experience among communities.