Giving back through business with Kay Galamo
When Kay Galamo accepted the role of General Manager at Lamatlik Investment Limited in 2020, he never imagined the incredible impact he would make. As an experienced accountant from Port Moresby, Kay brought his expertise and passion to the clan-owned business on Lihir, determined to create locally-owned jobs and build financial security for the Lamatlik clan.
Lamatlik Investment Limited was established in 1995 as a car-hire company with the support of leading gold mining company Newmont. “While it was a small operation when I got involved, you could see the potential of this business,” Kay says. He drew on the expert support of the Apeketon Business Hub, co-designed with and funded by Newmont and delivered by Australian Business Volunteers, to take the business to new heights.
“Four years into the role, we now have 18 cars, employ 12 local people, own our office, we have opened a branch at Kavieng, and we’ve diversified our service from car-hire to logistics and providing the island’s first taxi service,” Kay says.
Kay achieved this growth not by taking loans or shortcuts but by working closely with the nine business directors and clan representatives. He focused on increasing cash flow with existing assets and introduced essential governance practices to ensure long-term success. “We now have Annual Meetings, reporting of cash-flow, business structures and a five-year plan to meet the growing demand. We’re also looking to expand to other regions. This is about maximising benefits for the clan and ensuring that when the mine closes we will have long term sustainability.”
One of the most significant milestones came when Kay and his team attended corporate governance training through the Apeketon Business Hub. This training helped the directors and clan representatives understand their responsibilities in running a business and where they could add the most value. “We saw a big difference in business culture after that.”
The results of Kay's hard work and dedication are remarkable. Within three years, all Lamatlik employees were on salaries, and the clan received K200,000 in dividends. He wants to see the clan thriving with access to education and the basic necessities of life.
With family and grandchildren on Lihir, Kay's passion for the island and its people is evident in everything he does. As he says, "Lihir is a small place, and we're all connected. When one clan does well, we all benefit." Through his work with Lamatlik Investment Limited, Kay Galamo is not only giving back to his community but also setting an inspiring example.
Trailblazing Women Entrepreneurs in Papua New Guinea
Strengthening micro, small, and medium businesses in the Pacific is at the heart of Australian Business Volunteers' (ABV) mission to build inclusive and sustainable economic growth across the region. In partnership with City Pharmacy Limited (CPL) Foundation Inc., which is dedicated to empowering women through education, healthcare, and economic development, we have launched a pilot six-month Business Mentoring Program for six pioneering businesswomen in Papua New Guinea. We are continually inspired by the vision and determination of these women leading the way. The program offers in-person training workshops, personalised mentorship, and one-on-one business support from ABV’s volunteer business mentor, Zarah de la Cruz. Additionally, it provides valuable networking opportunities, enabling women entrepreneurs to build strong and lasting support systems.
We’d like to introduce you to three of the participants and their inspiring stories that we celebrate and learn from this International Women’s Day.
Anne-Shirley Korave: Advancing Menstrual Health
Anne-Shirley Korave is the founder of QueenPads, a social enterprise providing sustainable and affordable menstrual health solutions in Papua New Guinea.
Experiencing firsthand the challenge of affording sanitary pads, Anne-Shirley began creating reusable alternatives. The positive feedback she received inspired her to launch QueenPads, which by March 2022 had its products in selected City Pharmacy stores nationwide, significantly improving access to menstrual health solutions.
She later collaborated with the CPL Foundation to expand menstrual health education and, by 2024, secured her first overseas export to the Solomon Islands. Dedicated to strengthening her business model and increasing awareness of menstrual health, Anne-Shirley joined the mentorship program in late 2024, furthering her mission as a social entrepreneur.
Sarah Artango: Championing Inclusive Skincare
Sarah Artango is the founder and director of Pearl Cosmetics, a company dedicated to providing inclusive skincare solutions in Papua New Guinea.
What began in 2009 as a kitchen experiment—creating natural, hypoallergenic products for friends and family—grew into a thriving local business. Motivated by her struggles with sensitive skin, Sarah launched Pearl Body Scrub to the PNG market, promoting the benefits of exfoliation and consistent skincare routines.
In 2022, she formally incorporated Pearl Cosmetics, followed by the launch of her product line on City Pharmacy shelves in 2023.
As a participant in the Business Mentoring Program, Sarah continues to refine her marketing, finance, and strategic planning skills.
“With my daily operations, I find myself utilising skills acquired from the in-person training in marketing, finance, or strategic planning in the smallest to the biggest of business decisions and challenges I face.”
Meriba May Igara: Making PNG Wildlife a Part of Childhood Memories
Meriba-May Igara is the founder of Boss Crew PNG, a business that brings Papua New Guinea’s wildlife to life through plush toys.
She set out to design a plush toy inspired by the cuscus, an iconic local animal, to foster a stronger connection with PNG’s wildlife. Since then, Boss Crew PNG has developed six distinct plush toy designs under its Poro Adventures range, featuring endangered animals like the Tree Kangaroo, Pig-nosed Turtle, and Bird of Paradise. A portion of profits supports the Tenkile Conservation Alliance, which protects the critically endangered Tenkile tree kangaroo.
The Poro Adventures range officially launched on City Pharmacy shelves on March 8, 2023, coinciding with International Women’s Day.
“The mentoring program has been transformational for me. I’ve gained clarity, confidence, and actionable skills to strengthen my marketing strategies and enhance my operations,” Meriba-May shared.
These women exemplify resilience, innovation, and determination, shaping the future of business in Papua New Guinea and beyond. Their stories inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs, proving that with the right support and mentorship, women can break barriers and create lasting impact. We look forward to sharing the more inspiring stories from the this program.
Lihirian businesses are at the forefront of implementing strong governance practices that drive growth, resilience, and long-term sustainability. On Lihir Island, Papua New Guinea (PNG), the Better Business Governance (BBG) program, delivered through a collaboration between Newmont’s Sustainability Team and Australian Business Volunteers (ABV), is empowering local enterprises to thrive. Through the Apeketon Business Hub, this initiative supports landowner groups and business owners in building robust governance frameworks tailored to their unique needs.
Empowering Lihirian Business Leaders
The BBG program has made a tangible difference to the operations of Lihirian businesses. Local leaders have embraced the tools and knowledge provided to enhance their governance capabilities, positioning their companies for sustainable success.
Peter Kalayen, a member of the Executive Committee for LPA, a trust fund managing 18 landholder groups, is one of many participants who have benefitted from the program. “Absolutely! Vital training to upskill local contractors, directors, and bookkeepers,” he said, reflecting on the practical skills gained to improve decision-making and regulatory compliance. Peter plans to implement several governance changes within his organisation to further enhance its operational effectiveness.
Andrew Okam of Matapudon Ltd, a specialised labour hire company, found the program transformative. “The concept of good governance, specifically on how to make good judgments and decisions, stood out for me,” he remarked. Andrew intends to refine his business plan, ensuring it aligns with better business practices to increase productivity and efficiency.
Similarly, Genievieve, director of Argen Ltd, praised the program for its focus on practical skills such as understanding financial reports and effective board management. “This is excellent training. I highly recommend it to other local and national directors,” she shared. Her company is now poised to pursue new opportunities while maintaining a strong governance foundation.
A Model Built on Local Knowledge and Expertise
A key strength of the BBG program is its unique delivery model, which blends the deep local knowledge of the Apeketon Business Hub team with the expertise of ABV’s skilled volunteers. This partnership ensures that the program addresses the specific challenges faced by Lihirian businesses while integrating globally recognised governance practices.
ABV volunteers, experienced professionals from Australia, work closely with the local team to deliver tailored training and mentoring. “Our volunteers are not just trainers; they are mentors who collaborate with local staff to provide personalised guidance,” explained ABV’s Business Hub Manager, Henry Ume Taule. This combination of external expertise and local understanding ensures that the program is both impactful and sustainable.
Building a Sustainable Future for Lihir
The BBG program includes five days of intensive training, complemented by one-on-one coaching, and aligns with PNG’s Internal Revenue Commission and Investment Promotion Authority standards. Participants learn to navigate their roles, analyse financial reports, and implement effective governance structures.
By equipping Lihirian business leaders with these tools, the program is helping create a strong foundation for the local economy. Businesses that complete the training emerge more resilient, compliant, and prepared to seize opportunities in a competitive market. This initiative is not only driving individual success stories but also contributing to the broader sustainability and prosperity of the Lihirian community.
In Labasa Town, nestled between two bustling supermarkets, stands Tagimoucia Restaurant, a testament to family dedication and entrepreneurial spirit.
Founded by Vilai Basalusalu, a retiree with a background in civil service, this restaurant has quickly become a cherished local eatery.
Vilai’s journey began long before the restaurant’s doors opened in 2022. Originally from Somosomo in Taveuni, he served five years as the Roko Tui Macuata in Labasa and leased a cane farm in Waiqele from 2019 to 2021. From their Waiqele home, he set up a home-based shop selling grog, lollies and ice blocks, which he refers to as the initial training ground for his family in running a business.
Nearing his retirement in 2020, Vilai sought a new venture to sustain his family in Labasa, including his children attending university. This led to the inception of Tagimoucia Restaurant. The eatery quickly established itself as an authority on quality and delicious traditional Fijian cuisine, offering dishes like mutton and rourou, fish in coconut milk, boiled fish and meaty bone. His dream was to create a place where quality food and exceptional service would bring the community together.
The early stages of the business were not without challenges. Securing a consistent supply of quality raw products like meat and fish was a significant hurdle. Establishing reliable suppliers was crucial to ensure the best ingredients for his customers. Additionally, the family had to quickly adapt to the responsibilities of running a business, from customer service to food preparation.
"Challenges are a pathway to success," says Vilai. "They are part of the journey and learning process."
Family is the backbone of Tagimoucia Restaurant. Vilai attributes the success of his restaurant to their collective efforts. The day starts at 5am with family prayer, followed by preparing the children and grandchildren for school. By 6am, they are already at the restaurant, scraping coconuts, cleaning fish, and handling other food preparations for the day ahead. The restaurant remains open until 7pm, with the entire family pitching in to ensure smooth operations.
A positive mindset and unwavering faith are central to Vilai’s philosophy. "Through faith, nothing is impossible," he asserts. This belief fuels his daily motivation and resilience, even on the toughest days. His advice to other entrepreneurs is simple: "Believe in yourself and your dreams. With the right mindset and heart in the right place, you can achieve anything."
The restaurant has grown from four tables to twelve, a testament to the quality of food and service that keeps customers coming back. "People come to Tagimoucia Restaurant because the food is fresh, and the quantity is appreciated by paying customers," says Vilai.
Despite his initial reluctance to promote the business, thanks to his daughter, Tagimoucia Restaurant is now on Facebook and Viber, keeping customers updated on the delightful cuisine they can enjoy.
Vilai is grateful to be part of the Fiji THRIVE Program, a joint local business development initiative co-designed by BSP and the Australian Business Volunteers.
Through the program, he has acquired new skills in cash flow management and budgeting. “I was very fortunate to be part of the program and to have the coaching from ABV Skilled Business Professionals,” he said. “They have visited us, tried our delicious iTaukei cuisine and offered great insights into how I can improve my business.”
Looking ahead, Vilai plans for further expansion and diversifying the menu to cater to a broader audience. He remains committed to engaging with the local community and believes that small businesses like his play a vital role in the local economy.
Vilai’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, family support and unwavering faith, success is within reach. Tagimoucia Restaurant stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs in Labasa and beyond.
At 51, Iliana Ikaniliwalala is not just a name in the bustling markets of Labasa; she is a story of resilience, determination and triumph over adversity.
Originally from Waitoga, Nairai, Lomaiviti, Iliana’s journey into entrepreneurship began unexpectedly during a visit to Labasa. What started as a temporary endeavour to sell fish became a calling, one that would change her life and the lives of those around her.
Iliana’s move to Labasa with her husband, Ioane Latianara, was initially driven by their children’s education. Ioane, hailing from Taveuni, supported her decision when she discovered her passion for fish vending in 2011.
At that time, her younger sister, Susana Duguci, had already established a stall.
Inspired by her sister’s success and the realization that she wanted to help her family, Iliana decided to start selling fish too. What started as a short trial became a lifelong commitment after she experienced the joy of running her own business.
The path wasn’t always smooth. In 2015, Iliana acquired her own table in the Labasa market after an elderly man sold his stall to her for $300.
Until then, she had been sharing her sister’s space. Like many budding entrepreneurs, Iliana faced challenges, especially with fierce competition and the complexities of running a business with no prior experience.
But what set Iliana apart was her unwavering determination to learn and grow.
Through the Fiji THRIVE program jointly designed by BSP and the Australian Business Volunteers, Iliana gained essential skills in customer service, cash flow management, and savings that she wishes she had learned earlier in her journey.
“If I had been doing this for years, I would have made so much more money,” she says, reflecting on how valuable the lessons were. Iliana’s business, aptly named Iliana Enterprise, offers a range of locally sourced fish, including ulavi, kabatia, and sabutu.
She buys her products from the hardworking fishermen of Naduri, ensuring that her business supports the local community and economy.
Despite the challenges, she managed to expand her business in 2017 to open Stall No.8 at Suva’s Bayley Bridge fish market.
As a woman in business, Iliana understands the unique pressures of balancing work with family responsibilities.
She is a proud mother of five children, ranging from 18 to 30 years old, and she also has a grandchild.
Iliana’s strength and perseverance are what guide her in running her business while also maintaining a nurturing role within her family.
Her long-term goal is to continue expanding Iliana Enterprise. Sustainability and quality are at the core of her business model and she sees her success as a way to empower other women in the community.
“Start a business only if it’s in your gut,” she advises. “You have to make up your mind because whatever you set out to do will benefit your children, family and your community”.
Iliana’s story is one of passion and perseverance.
From humble beginnings to a thriving fish vending business, she has shown that with determination, anyone can succeed.
Source: BSP Financial Group Limited
ABV CEO Liz Mackinlay is thrilled to be in Fiji, meeting with Senior Program Manager Ravi Chand, BSP Fiji GM Retail Ravindra Singh, and BSP Head of SME Rohit Sharma.
BSP Financial Group Limited and Australian Business Volunteers (ABV) partner to support small and medium businesses, which are the heart of Fiji's economy.
The Fiji THRIVE program is all about helping these businesses grow stronger and more resilient, making sure BSP’s support has a lasting impact across Fiji and the Pacific.
Over the past two years, nearly 100 people—80% of them women—have gained valuable skills through our programs in Fiji.
Together, we're committed to empowering local businesses and building a more resilient future.
Skilled Business Professionals, Kaylene Benson and Cathy Corderoy are in Labasa, Vanua Levu volunteering their time to deliver Fiji THRIVE this month.
Kaylene says “Reflecting on my experience in Fiji, I continue to be amazed at the many ways people are connected and the importance placed on looking after each other. Everyone seems very eager to make the most of this opportunity.”
The program focuses on supporting Fijian entrepreneurship, with strong participation by women-led businesses, for more resilient and sustainable communities.
BSP Financial Group Limited and Australian Business Volunteers (ABV) have co-designed this business-strengthening program, Fiji THRIVE, which is offered to micro, small, and medium enterprises across Fiji through in-person workshop training and ongoing online coaching and mentoring over six months.
THRIVE stands for "Together, Helping [to build a] Resilient, Inclusive [and] Vibrant Economy."
Happy Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Day! Today, we celebrate the businesses that are the backbone of our economies.
As mentors to small businesses, Australian Business Volunteers have a front-row seat to their challenges.
One participant in our program Gulshad Begum, entered the fiercely competitive world of Facebook selling and carved a niche for herself through integrity and persistence.
Launching her brand, Optimum Image, in 2014, with the support of her husband Zahir Ali, she was inspired by the rising trend of Facebook sellers importing goods but saw a significant gap in quality.
Gulshad faced substantial barriers, particularly in finding a reliable supplier who could deliver quality products at an affordable price.
"I would never want to sell something I wouldn't wear myself," Gulshad said. Driven by this principle, she contacted numerous suppliers until she found the perfect match. Overcoming the challenges of the customs process, she finally received her first shipment.
With no dedicated space, she transformed her sitting room cupboard into a makeshift showroom, inviting friends and family to view and purchase her garments.
Exposure became her key strategy. "I created my Facebook page and made friends with one and all, anyone I came across, I just made friends," she recalls.
Through her efforts, Gulshad's sales grew, and she built a home office off her sitting room. In 2018, after 20 years in the printing business, her husband established his own office supply company and started sharing the home office space.
Despite having to share her space with toner cartridges and stationery, Gulshad cherishes their collaboration. "Sometimes on his way to service an office, he will take a delivery for one of my customers. I keep his books as well, so we work well together," she said.
Balancing work and family life remains a challenge for Gulshad. She juggles customer calls, school projects, and last-minute requests, often going the extra mile for her clients.
Image: Gulshad and her husband Zahir.
"The other day we had an urgent call from a mother who needed a lion picture for her son's assignment. I printed it and handed it to her myself at the school gates," she recalls with a smile.
In 2023, Gulshad attended the Fiji THRIVE small business program, a partnership between BSP Financial Group Limited and Australian Business Volunteers (ABV).
This program offers bank customers like Gulshad essential business training, coaching, and mentoring delivered by ABV’s skilled business professionals who have experience working in a range of Pacific cultures, including living and working in Fiji. Gulshad found the sales skills she learned invaluable.
"The advertising tactics that I learnt with ABV were very beneficial," she said. The course also instilled a new discipline in her financial management, helping her separate personal and business finances and manage margins more effectively.
Despite her modesty, Gulshad is ambitious. Her future plans include setting up a larger space and possibly opening a shop for Optimum Image Clothing. Her eldest child has shown interest in fashion, hinting that the family business may soon become a shared passion.
This article was featured in the Fiji Times.
The night before virtually interviewing ABV mentor David Campbell and mentee Moana Korikalo, a 6.5-scale earthquake hit Vanuatu. Despite being woken up by her home shaking in the night, Moana showed up on time to chat with us with a positive attitude. "That's who Moana is; she always follows through on her commitments," David remarked.
As the Retail Head of BSP Financial Group Limited's Vanuatu branch, Moana guides clients through their business growth and steers them towards success. We matched David and Moana in May 2022 under BSP's leadership development program. Moana picked David for his impressive profile that showcased his extensive sales and business development expertise. On David's suggestion, they took a personality test to get to know each other. They found they were both 'protagonists'–the people who get things done.
Moana has been with BSP Financial Group since 2010 and is now in her 7th year as the retail head of Vanuatu. She manages a team of 59 staff—each day brings something new. Moana's real love is helping people; she initially started as an executive assistant at BSP and, in her downtime, would head downstairs to help customers at the bank. She quickly realised an assistant role wasn't for her; she needed to be with a team.
Moana embraced the chance to participate in the BSP/ABV mentoring program. Her main goal was to enhance her leadership skills, and with David's help, Moana has improved her confidence in leading her team. Moana's excellent communication skills are crucial to managing her multi-lingual team, who speak French, English, and Bislama.
David travelled to meet Moana for the first time in September 2023. "It felt like reuniting with an old friend. We have become great buddies over the years, and I felt comfortable immediately. I know our friendship will continue after this program," said Moana.
David met Moana's team at the bank and got to see the other side of his mentoring at play; "I asked the team for feedback on what was and wasn't working, and the level of candour was pretty refreshing", he said.
Moana has led her team to great personal and professional achievements. She shared a heartwarming story of how proud she was that one of her branch managers passed her driving test after seven years of her writing it into her 'development plan.'
Moana's leadership style has transformed throughout the mentoring program. Moana said, "My confidence and how I approach situations is so different, thanks to David's guidance. When people ask me how I've done it, I simply say, 'Meet my friend David.'"
ABV volunteers Matt Stone and Liane Arno went to Mt. Hagen, Papua New Guinea, to present the YES Grow program, which helps small businesses owners develop essential skills for sustainable growth.
Matt and Liane have been volunteering across the Pacific with ABV since 2006.
The YES Grow program has also been delivered in Port Moresby, Jiwaka, and Lae, as you may have seen in our updates. Accompanied by Carol Nokop from the BSP team, Matt and Liane visited some of the participants' businesses to learn about their services, including Enoch Stevens' Puma Service Station and Delilah Gori’s craft market.
During their visits, Carol had a perm done with the lovely Maria Kulunga from Binzqe Hair Salon. They also stopped by Anton Pugu's general store before finishing their day at Sir Mara Haus for a session on funding sources with the program's participants.
They had the pleasure of meeting the Governor of the Western Highlands Province, Wai Rapa who came to see the participants.
Matt and Liane look forward to maintaining a close connection to the businesses as they implement the lessons learned.
YES Grow is a program delivered in partnership with BSP Financial Group Limited in PNG, Fiji and Samoa.
