Steven Kilanda will continue as the executive director of the National Cultural Commission (NCC) for another four years. Kilanda was one of seven agency heads who signed renewed employment contracts at a swearing-in ceremony at the Government House, emphasizing a commitment to continuity in service.
Kilanda began his tenure at the NCC in 2018 as the acting executive director. Under his leadership, the Commission, once near collapse, experienced significant growth and set new standards over the past eight years.
Before his role at the NCC, Kilanda was the director of corporate services at the National Museum and Art Gallery, bringing extensive expertise in the cultural sector to his leadership.
Kilanda has been recognized for his contributions, receiving accolades as the best-performing agency head by the Department of Personnel Management in 2020 and 2021. His tenure saw the NCC achieve significant milestones, strengthening its role in preserving Melanesian cultural identities amidst global changes.
In recognition of his service, Kilanda was awarded the Member of the British Empire (MBE) medal. Chief Secretary Amb. Ivan Pomaleu recently commended Kilanda’s dedication in a letter dated June 24, praising his efforts in steering cultural celebrations and highlighting the NCC’s crucial role in preserving Melanesian heritage.
“I encourage you to continue the work,” Amb. Pomaleu stated, underscoring Kilanda’s essential role in maintaining cultural integrity in the face of contemporary challenges.
