On Wednesday, 28 May, the Fiji Indigenous Business Council (FIBC) proudly opened its 2025 Symposium at the Novotel Convention Centre in Lami under the theme: "Networking: Creating & Sustaining Our Future in Business."
The event commenced with powerful and encouraging remarks by our chief guest Hon. Viliame Gavoka, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism & Civil Aviation. This was followed by a presentation by Hon. Biman Prasad, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Strategic Planning, National Development & Statistics.
Their participation underscored the importance of Indigenous-led economic growth, and their support for iTaukei and Rotuman business transformation was felt throughout the room.
Haroon Ali, Country Head of BSP Fiji, and Liz Mackinlay, CEO of ABV, were honoured to present on the success of the Fiji THRIVE program—a collaborative initiative designed to empower micro, small and medium-sized businesses with the tools, networks, and strategies needed to thrive in a modern, competitive economy. Their insights demonstrated how targeted support, and true partnership can transform local enterprise into engines of community growth.
Haroon Ali spoke to the sustained commitment of the Fiji THRIVE model, saying:
“This is not like a three-day workshop and we forget about what we have said in those three days. It's a six-months programme holding hands to make sure that every MSME customer that we put through this training has become successful.”
This hands-on, long-term approach reflects a genuine effort to not only educate, but to walk alongside micro and small business owners on their path to success.
Liz Mackinlay highlighted how filling fundamental knowledge gaps is unlocking the potential of local entrepreneurs.
“We've met so many wonderful business people with brilliant business ideas that were never taught cash management or inventory management or the value of HR or how do you market or even assess your market,” she said.
“So some of those fundamentals can be a game changer for these brilliant entrepreneurs that have got amazing ideas.”
This kind of practical, targeted support is the essence of what makes Fiji THRIVE impactful.
Key themes from their presentation included:
1. Building Capacity to Access Finance and Partnerships
Fiji THRIVE is equipping iTaukei entrepreneurs with the tools to create financially sound, bankable business plans that meet institutional standards. The program also focuses on ensuring fair and transparent participation in joint ventures, while strengthening business acumen and negotiation skills to protect iTaukei interests.
2. Innovating in Traditional Sectors: Farming, Fishing and Handicrafts
Traditional livelihoods remain the economic backbone of many communities. Fiji THRIVE is supporting value addition through better packaging, branding, and processing, while also fostering diversification into agritourism, eco-products, and sustainable enterprises—ensuring innovation respects culture while opening new income streams.
3. Unlocking Market Access
By improving product quality and presentation, Fiji THRIVE is helping Indigenous businesses meet the expectations of high-value markets. The initiative is also building strong linkages to the tourism sector, retail markets, and export buyers, and reinforcing local value chains to keep wealth within communities.
4. Future-Focused Growth: Digital, Sustainable, and Inclusive
The program supports digital adoption, including mobile banking, online marketing, and e-commerce tools. It also taps into Fiji’s Blue and Green economy potential through clean energy, eco-tourism, sustainable fisheries, and climate-smart practices—positioning Indigenous entrepreneurs at the forefront of regenerative business models.
5. Building Wealth and Equity through Inclusive Business
Fiji THRIVE is helping to create pathways for intergenerational wealth creation through land- and ocean-based enterprise and investment. It champions women as entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators and promotes inclusive business models that ensure success is widely shared, not concentrated.
BSP and ABV acknowledge and deeply respect the pivotal role the Fiji Indigenous Business Council plays in shaping the future of Indigenous enterprises in Fiji. The Council’s commitment to uniting, empowering, and transforming iTaukei and Rotuman businesses while serving as a voice to government, institutions, and the private sector is both visionary and essential. Its ambitious goal to help establish 5,000 successful iTaukei and Rotuman companies by 2034 is one that aligns closely with the values of inclusive, sustainable development that both BSP and ABV champion.
The energy, insights, and commitment displayed during the symposium show the future of Indigenous business in Fiji is bright, inclusive, and transformational.
Raised with an ethos of providing a helping hand to your neighbour, joining Australian Business Volunteers (ABV) in 2023 to volunteer with communities in Nauru was in some ways simply common sense for Sydney local, Vera Pajovic.
“Maxine Wiggs, a wonderful lady I used to work with in the travel industry reached out to me and said she was working with an organisation that I would love,” Vera says.
When a volunteer position came up to support ABV’s work with the Nauru Chamber of Commerce and Sustainable Tourism Working Group to support a range of locally-led private sector strengthening initiatives, Vera, who has a longstanding career in marketing in Australia’s tourism and travel industry, didn’t hesitate to apply.
“I have worked in the Pacific for many years with tourism boards and communities in Papua New Guinea when I was working for the Kokoda Track Foundation,” Vera adds. “I feel very connected to the Pacific, and the need to support our region; bringing everyone with us, and not leaving anyone behind.”
An avid traveller and founding director of sustainable tourism consultancy, EcoStory, Vera has come in contact with countless tourist businesses, but when it comes to sharing her expertise for inclusive economic development in Nauru, Vera says ABV’s involvement has been vital.
“It’s essential to work with an organisation who understands the community's needs and can navigate the local complexities that make the work meaningful and impactful,” Vera explains.
“It’s not ABV coming in, it’s really finding the local parties and uncovering opportunities to support micro and small businesses in the ways that they want.”
“The country is beginning to understand the benefits of what tourism could mean for people in Nauru, but it needs to be led by the community and foreign tourists need to meet the locals where they’re at.”
In her two years with ABV, Vera has been in Nauru twice, with a third volunteer visit on its way to help build the country’s tourism industry in a sustainable and empowering way for inclusive economic development.
“I was expecting the workshops (in business mentorship and coaching), but less so the strategic direction piece that I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to with local stakeholders and the Chamber.”
“Nauru’s described as the rough diamond of the Pacific and it has so much to offer,” Vera emphasises through her work on the Nauru Private Sector Development Roadmap, supported by the Australian High Commission in Nauru. “It is a great tourism destination for the adventure tourist.”
“There’s amazing hiking, and incredible opportunities for fishing and snorkelling. Nauruans are also proud of their culture; they’re generous and have so much to share.”
“It’s about finding partnerships on the island and working together to grow the industry.”
Not spoken about is the fact that with her own business, Vera is no doubt incredibly busy and continues to find time for this vocational work in a voluntary capacity.
“I’ve learnt so much from it as well. Along with training, I’ve learnt about a different culture and different ways of how things are done,” Vera says.
“It’s been humbling, and I’m so happy to be just a small piece of the puzzle.”
“Building local tourism is helping people to improve their livelihoods and strengthen their communities. If I can support just five people to build their businesses, I will be so happy!”
As part of ABV’s mission to build inclusive and sustainable economic growth across the region, we are proud to partner with City Pharmacy Limited (CPL) Foundation Inc. to mentor six women trailblazing local entrepreneurship in Papua New Guinea.
Along with developing successful women-led businesses, these entrepreneurs are offering innovative market solutions to preserve language, foster local art and culture, and market locally-made sustainable products for health and beauty.
The six month women entrepreneurship program provides participants in-person workshops, personalised mentorship, and one-on-one coaching from ABV’s skilled business volunteers to help forge lasting networks and business acceleration.
We are continually inspired by the vision and determination of these women, and hope that you are too.
Kazieh Taganny: Hair care tailored for Melanesian women
Frustrated by the lack of hair care tailored for Melanesian women, in 2022 PNG entrepreneur Kazieh Taganny created her own suite of products designed for PNG women to embrace their natural hair.
What started as a personal solution, quickly grew into a thriving business with Kazieh and her sister founding Niugini Naturals to sell their hair and scalp oil, rapid growth hair food, and whipped shea butter.
Within two years, the women-led business has expanded distribution to regions across PNG, and in Port Moresby salons its products have outperformed international brands. Kazieh is proud that all Niugini Naturals products are handmade and use organic ingredients to reduce reliance on chemical treatments.
Kazieh is also grateful to receive tailored business development guidance through the CPL Foundation Inc. and ABV Business Mentoring Program 2024, “As small business owners, this program is already helping us achieve goals we thought would take 10 years. It has shown us the power of community, networking, and mentorship.”
Deborah Salle: Championing PNG’s linguistic heritage
Based in Port Moresby, Deborah Salle identified the need for high-quality linguistic services for government and aid and development organisations working in PNG and its rich linguistic heritage.
With over 800 languages spoken across the country, Deborah founded PNG Language Services in 2020 and embarked on her journey as a quality language entrepreneur.
Now in its fifth year of operation, Deborah works alongside a network of experienced translators to offer translation, interpretation and tutoring in the country’s most prominent languages: Tok Pisin, Hiri Motu, Kuanua, and Enga.
Her clients include diplomats, global agencies, international language service providers, as well as community-based volunteers such as those from the Japan International Cooperation Agency who took Deborah’s course in Tok Pisin to deepen their work in the community.
Deborah says through her recent involvement in the CPL Foundation Inc. and ABV Business Mentoring Program 2024, PNG Language Services was able to develop a translation training program to develop local competency in English and Tok Pisin translation.
“My biggest takeaway was learning how to break down my goals into weekly tasks,” Deborah says. “I also learned to create business habits - something I’ll apply not just in my business but in my personal life too.”
Nadya Parascos: Spearheading cultural expression
As a corner-stone to Port Moresby’s creative scene, in 2022 Nadya Paracos took her passion for entertainment and performing arts to establish Dare2Create as a local enterprise to strengthen local art and culture.
Now in its third year of operation, the creative company delivers fresh and captivating entertainment experiences that are known to bring Port Moresby to life.
These productions have included a video mapping and dance show for PNG Air’s 35th Anniversary, alongside a performance with the Boera Village cultural and theatre group that told the legendary story of Edai Siabo and the first lagatoi.
With Dare2Create tasked with providing entertainment at CPL Foundation’s Pride of PNG Women Awards in 2024, Nadya is now one of six mentees in the CPL Foundation Inc. and ABV Business Mentoring Program.
Coinciding her responsibilities as a new mother, Nadya says the intensive mentorship has excelled her development. “The sessions have been greatly beneficial as there is real-time guidance and advice on different challenges in the goals set.”
Find out more about the PNG women entrepreneurs in the CPL Foundation and ABV Business Mentoring Program 2024.
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.
Small business owners face numerous challenges and local entrepreneurs in Lihir, New Ireland province, are no exception.
They need to research, find startup funding, maintain a budget, grow their presentation skills, become a master salesperson and find committed staff.
To help business owners through these stages, the Australian Business Volunteers (ABV) deliver the YES Bisnis program—a small business training initiative, equipping local entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed.
Dr Bea Duffield has been a volunteer for ABV for 11 years and encouraged her husband, Gavin Blakely, to join ABV in 2019. They have delivered two YES training sessions together and are keen to continue creating positive impacts in the Pacific.
"Our workshop is interactive with activities and reflection sessions. Participants gain practical skills and actionable insights that they can immediately apply to their businesses," Gavin said, with Bea adding, "And we have a lot of fun too during the sessions!"
The program is funded by Newmont Corporation and delivered through the Apeketon Business Hub on Lihir.
