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Bios for Pacific Islands Young Economic Empowerment Leaders-Cohort 2
Jordan Becks, Managing Director, The EDidiman Initiative
Mr. Jordan Becks is a remarkable 32-year-old gentleman hailing from the picturesque Autonomous Region of Bougainville, located in Papua New Guinea. Born on May 12, 1991, Jordan's journey is nothing short of extraordinary, characterized by his dedication to making a lasting impact on his community and beyond.
Early Years
Raised in Bougainville, Jordan developed a deep appreciation for his cultural heritage, natural surroundings, and the importance of community at a young age young age.
A Visionary Entrepreneur
Jordan he is a seasoned entrepreneur who has founded and led four civil organizations and award-winning businesses in Papua New Guinea. He has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to community development, socio-economic empowerment, and sustainability. His business ventures have not only thrived but have also contributed significantly to the prosperity of the regions they operate in.
Leadership Philosophy
Jordan firmly believes that leadership is not about titles or hierarchy; instead, it is about being a good friend and a supportive companion. His approach to leadership is founded on trust, empathy, and collaboration. He values the strength that arises from unity and places a strong emphasis on fostering an environment where every individual can flourish.
Edidiman Initiative and City Pharmacy Limited Group
Currently, Jordan serves as the Managing Director of the Edidiman Initiative, a dynamic organization dedicated to fostering sustainable development in Bougainville and surrounding regions. Furthermore, he holds the role of SME & Agriculture Development Specialist within the City Pharmacy Limited Group, where his expertise contributes to the growth and development of small and medium sized enterprises in the region.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Jordan has received numerous awards and accolades for his dedication to community development and entrepreneurship. His commitment to creating positive change and nurturing future leaders has not gone unnoticed. In every sense, he embodies the essence of a visionary leader. His passion for uplifting his community, his relentless pursuit of excellence in business, and his belief in the power of friendship as a leadership cornerstone have made him a respected and admired figure in Bougainville and beyond. As he continues to shape the future of his community and the broader region, Mr. Jordan Becks remains a shining example of what can be achieved through compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of society.
Zhanae Dodd, Chief Executive Officer, Groove Co.
Zhanae Dodd is a proud Ghungalu, Wadja, Kaanju and Birri Wiri (of the Birri Guba Nation) from Queensland, Australia. She is the proud owner of cultural immersion, exchange and consultancy business, Groove Co., which she founded after realising a need in her community and wider Australia for stronger connection to Indigenous identity and cross-cultural connection throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
Zhanae comes from a background of grassroots, private and government service with a focus on capacity building Indigenous youth. She was Queensland Youth Parliament's first Indigenous Youth Premier and was a finalist for the Australian Human Rights Youth Medal last year.
She has now turned her focus to deeper engagement across the Pacific, wanting to build on the experience which Young Pacific Leaders, Pacific-Australia Youth Association Inc. and Young Australians in International Affairs has provided her with a focus on Australia's First Nation Foreign Policy.
She cannot wait to connect with the East West Centre and Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement so she can learn culturally and academically, add to her tool kit and take knowledge back home to make changes back in Australian from an Indigenous and Pacific lens.
Bulou Draunidalo, Owner and Software Consultant, Unicorn Technology Solutions
Bulou Draunidalo was born and raised in Suva, the capital of Fiji, the youngest child of Ratu Savenaca Draunidalo and Salesia Draunidalo. Her father was a career military officer in the Fiji Military Forces and held the rank of Colonel before taking up a political career and serving 3 terms as a cabinet minister under the Qarase administration before the military coup of 2006. Her mother was a career civil servant at the Ministry of Finance and retired from the Office of the President as the Principal Administration Officer.
Bulou completed a BSc in Computer Science from the University of Pune in 2013 under a scholarship from the Government of India, and has masters degrees in computing and information systems from the University of the South Pacific, 2018 and Information Technology from the University of Fiji, 2020. She has worked as a programmer at the University of the South Pacific and the Ministry of Education (2015 - 2021). She has also lectured at the Fulton University College (2016) in Nadi, Fiji. She left the civil service after 6 years to begin an ICT consultancy business in 2021, which she currently runs. She has more than 19 years of community service volunteering with not-for-profits and disadvantaged groups in Fiji.
In 2022 she announced as a political candidate for the Peoples Alliance party, which went on the win the election and form the government. She was unsuccessful but remains determined to win a seat at the next election in 2026.
She is currently exploring business opportunities in the aquaculture industry with particular emphasis on technology that can drive its sustainable growth in Fiji.
Marah Fritz, Foreign Service Officer, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
My name is Marah Fritz. I am from Nauru which is also known as the "Pleasant Island." I come from the Emea tribe which is one of the 12 tribes which are depicted as the 12-pointed star on our National flag.
I currently work with the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade and I also run my own baking business at home.
My inspiration and passion to bake has been passed down by my mother, who taught herself how to bake using magazine recipes. Now I wish to gain as much training and experience in this field to continue to pass down the legacy to my daughter. Not only is it a passion but also a means of empowering young women in the Pacific to become independent, resilient and creative, all of which can slowly impact the economic and social development of my country.
Fun fact: Our tribes in Nauru are inherited through our matrilineal links. My tribal (Emea) characteristics are: Beautiful eyes, of low rank, sly and aggressive, and users of the engow (rake). Which means we are the servants of the higher-ranking class of our country. I proudly represent my tribe through the modern way of serving my country and its people, through baking and hopefully teaching others how to start their own bakery business, though not in a sly and aggressive way.
Clare Guria, Self-Employed Freelance Graphic and Visual Designer
I am a freelance graphic/visual designer of a start-up graphic design business called Clarebear Designs.
Also, I share my time participating in advocacy work around my community back home, focusing on the Persons with Disability (PWD) inclusion movement.
I am a proud Deaf woman. I have a Bachelor Degree in Design (Interactive & Visual Design) from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) through the Australian Government scholarship (AA-PNG). I am passionate about helping others and giving back to my community by breaking barriers of persons with disability. I want to improve myself and my community back home especially the Deaf community.
I am happy to be participating in this Professional Fellowship Program by the US Department of State for 5-weeks. Learning from both Deaf and hearing professionals in Hawaii, Rochester NY and Washington, DC. My two goals to learn from this program is entrepreneurship and inclusion leadership.
Joshua Peauafi, Community Partnerships Lead, Fujitsu Oceania
Mālō e lelei, kia ora and hello, my name is Joshua Peauafi, I am from Tongan and New Zealand European descent, born and raised in Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Wellington, Aotearoa New Zealand. My experience and expertise include Community Development, Youth Development, Social Impact, Relationship Management and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. I am an experienced connector and thrive in spaces where there is potential to explore cross-cultural conversations and collaboration. I'm interested in the experiences of people navigating complexities and the potential for positive social impact, that drives and strengthens positive social outcomes.
Holding a Bachelor of Arts from Victoria University of Wellington majoring in Pacific Studies and Media Studies. While also holding a certificate in Professional Supervision in the workplace, Foundation Certificate in Youth Mentoring in Aotearoa New Zealand, Response Ability-Pathways Certificate.
I am a co-founder and the Programme Manager at Potplant Studio, in which we engage specific audiences with plant workshops that highlight, engage and normalize conversations around mental health, well-being, sustainability and identity. We have recently delivered workshops to over 80 Pacific Youth across the greater Wellington Region specifically within areas of high Pacific peoples population.
I have had the privilege to speak on Cultural Innovative Practices "The Plastic Polynesian Conversation" to a wide range of audiences, such as the Aspiring Leaders Forum, June 2017, July 2018, June 2019, Ara Taiohi Involve Conference Speaker 2020 and 2021, Y-tech, Beyond the Code 2022, Young Pacific Leaders Conference in Guam April 2023 as an Alumni mentor and speaker, while also being awarded a New Zealander of the Year Local Hero Award, Kiwibank Local Hero Medalists 2021 for my work.
I was also honored to have been selected to attend the Young Pacific Leaders Civic Leaders Workshop in Sydney September 2022, Young Pacific Leaders TechCamp for Climate Action October 2022 and the Young Pacific Leaders Alumni Voyagers Programme November 2023.
Sagaga Safega, Youth Manager, Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport
Talofa and Mahalo.
My name is Sagaga Safega from the beautiful island of Tuvalu. I am currently working as a youth manager under the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport. This unit is one of the smallest in the government, but it is also one of the most important.
I have been working in this department for almost 10 years. Personally, this is not just a job - it is an area of unwavering passion. I have found great fulfillment during my time as a young person who is effectively involved in family, community, and church activities with children, women, youths, and those with special needs.
Doing such work is vital as I see myself as a co-working person where I am representing the voice of young people from the national level to the grassroots, advocating for our needs to the government and to our counterparts locally and internationally.
I am passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people in Tuvalu. I believe that all young people have the potential to succeed, and I am committed to providing them with the support and resources they need to reach their full potential.
I am also committed to working with the government and other stakeholders to develop and implement policies and programs that will support the development of young people in Tuvalu. I believe that by working together, we can create a brighter future for all Tuvaluan youth.
My participation in this program has allowed me to enhance my knowledge and skills in building networks that aid and support us, small island countries, in becoming successful entrepreneurs in the long term. Given the high rate of youth unemployment in Tuvalu, I perceive this opportunity as an avenue for conducting business coaching programs for youths. This platform will undoubtedly provide opportunities for youths to at least earn a daily income. It also serves as a means of improving the unemployment rate in my country, where youths are encouraged to engage in local businesses, such as reviving our traditional knowledge in terms of handicrafts and local products.
I aspire to share my experiences with all Tuvaluans, empowering them to commence their entrepreneurial ventures with confidence and achieve long-term success.
Paul Sukulu, Livelihood Development Coordinator, SCALE-NRM/Winrock International
Aloha and halo Olgeta! My name is Paul Rodney Sukulu from the beautiful Solomon Islands. I am the eldest of my five siblings having a brother and four beautiful sisters. Family is always a priority to me, and I love spending time with my siblings and parents.
I reflect a variety of personality including ambition, and the qualities of generosity and thoughtfulness. I am also a well determined individual, yet pleasantly calm and easy to get along. I encourage fighting for what one desire and believe in life and doing so through God, because nothing great comes easy and with God everything is possible.
I am a full-time community worker in my country, motivated by the love to help those in need and without a voice, hence, I find giving back to communities has always a big part of my life while learning - and navigating life as I strive to become a successful person in today’s society. With the definite goal to becoming a recognize leader in my country in the future, I continue to develop myself and recently completed a Master’s Degree in Agriculture and Rural Development, at Okayama University in Japan. Ever since I have been working as a Livelihood Development Coordinator for the USAid SCALE-NRM project in Solomon Islands while an active member of the JICA-SI Alumnae group and now soon to be a Cohort of East-West Center alumnae network.
Through my passion for helping other whenever I can, I have embraced a fascinating interest to work with disadvantage people in society as I was one of these people growing up in the rural villages. As a teenager growing up, I realize life is not going to be easy, and so I always work hard and determine to have good education believing that through education one can live a fulfilling life. Being a very discipline student, I held various leadership roles during my school days, such as class captain, school prefect, vice head boy and group president. I was the 2013-14 Alafua Campus Vice President for the School of Agriculture and Food Technology of the South Pacific in Samoa where my passion for leadership grew event bigger. Again, going home to Solomon Islands after graduating with a bachelor’s degree, I faced the challenge of finding employment, however that did not take long as I applied for work with Save the Children Australia, Solomon Island country office and were offered a space to work as Program Quality Officer for the very first time in professional work where I spend 2 years. I later joined the Ministry of Education and work for yet another 2 years as National Program Officer for the literacy and numeracy management unit.
An opportunity came in 2017, and I was selected together with 42 other potential young leaders from the Pacific Island countries to study in Japan under the Leader’s Educational Assistance for Development of State or Pacific-LEADs program, a bilateral scholarship program by the Japanese government. Upon returning home to the Solomon Islands, I was fortunate to be given a chance to work as a Livelihood development Coordinator for the USAid-SCALE-NRM project, where I am currently working.
My general view on life, be always who you are and always trust in yourself, because when no one does, the only person that can still do is yourself.
Teemwari Tanentoa, Lead InCountry Program Coordinator, Kindling Kiribati
Teemwari Totiana Tanentoa is native to Kiribati and fluent in 3 languages. She is In Country Lead Coordinator Of Kindling Kiribati Small Business Development of Kiribati. She loves to read and learn more about other cultures and languages. She served an LDS mission in the Philippines where she learned Tagalog. She has a passion for helping others, Teemwari is excited to help her native people of Kiribati and support Kindling Kiribati.
Excited to connect with the East-West Centre and Pacific BusinessCcenter Program to learn more skills and knowledge to make a difference.
Paulini Turagabeci, Writer & Editor, Kulawai Press
Paulini Turagabeci is an indigenous Fijian writer and publisher at Kulawai Press, a Suva-based publishing house that is committed to centering indigenous characters and amplifying Pasika voices in literature.
Bios for Pacific Islands Young Economic Empowerment Leaders-Cohort 2
Jordan Becks, Managing Director, The EDidiman Initiative
Mr. Jordan Becks is a remarkable 32-year-old gentleman hailing from the picturesque Autonomous Region of Bougainville, located in Papua New Guinea. Born on May 12, 1991, Jordan's journey is nothing short of extraordinary, characterized by his dedication to making a lasting impact on his community and beyond.
Early Years
Raised in Bougainville, Jordan developed a deep appreciation for his cultural heritage, natural surroundings, and the importance of community at a young age young age.
A Visionary Entrepreneur
Jordan he is a seasoned entrepreneur who has founded and led four civil organizations and award-winning businesses in Papua New Guinea. He has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to community development, socio-economic empowerment, and sustainability. His business ventures have not only thrived but have also contributed significantly to the prosperity of the regions they operate in.
Leadership Philosophy
Jordan firmly believes that leadership is not about titles or hierarchy; instead, it is about being a good friend and a supportive companion. His approach to leadership is founded on trust, empathy, and collaboration. He values the strength that arises from unity and places a strong emphasis on fostering an environment where every individual can flourish.
Edidiman Initiative and City Pharmacy Limited Group
Currently, Jordan serves as the Managing Director of the Edidiman Initiative, a dynamic organization dedicated to fostering sustainable development in Bougainville and surrounding regions. Furthermore, he holds the role of SME & Agriculture Development Specialist within the City Pharmacy Limited Group, where his expertise contributes to the growth and development of small and medium sized enterprises in the region.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Jordan has received numerous awards and accolades for his dedication to community development and entrepreneurship. His commitment to creating positive change and nurturing future leaders has not gone unnoticed. In every sense, he embodies the essence of a visionary leader. His passion for uplifting his community, his relentless pursuit of excellence in business, and his belief in the power of friendship as a leadership cornerstone have made him a respected and admired figure in Bougainville and beyond. As he continues to shape the future of his community and the broader region, Mr. Jordan Becks remains a shining example of what can be achieved through compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of society.
Zhanae Dodd, Chief Executive Officer, Groove Co.
Zhanae Dodd is a proud Ghungalu, Wadja, Kaanju and Birri Wiri (of the Birri Guba Nation) from Queensland, Australia. She is the proud owner of cultural immersion, exchange and consultancy business, Groove Co., which she founded after realising a need in her community and wider Australia for stronger connection to Indigenous identity and cross-cultural connection throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
Zhanae comes from a background of grassroots, private and government service with a focus on capacity building Indigenous youth. She was Queensland Youth Parliament's first Indigenous Youth Premier and was a finalist for the Australian Human Rights Youth Medal last year.
She has now turned her focus to deeper engagement across the Pacific, wanting to build on the experience which Young Pacific Leaders, Pacific-Australia Youth Association Inc. and Young Australians in International Affairs has provided her with a focus on Australia's First Nation Foreign Policy.
She cannot wait to connect with the East West Centre and Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement so she can learn culturally and academically, add to her tool kit and take knowledge back home to make changes back in Australian from an Indigenous and Pacific lens.
Bulou Draunidalo, Owner and Software Consultant, Unicorn Technology Solutions
Bulou Draunidalo was born and raised in Suva, the capital of Fiji, the youngest child of Ratu Savenaca Draunidalo and Salesia Draunidalo. Her father was a career military officer in the Fiji Military Forces and held the rank of Colonel before taking up a political career and serving 3 terms as a cabinet minister under the Qarase administration before the military coup of 2006. Her mother was a career civil servant at the Ministry of Finance and retired from the Office of the President as the Principal Administration Officer.
Bulou completed a BSc in Computer Science from the University of Pune in 2013 under a scholarship from the Government of India, and has masters degrees in computing and information systems from the University of the South Pacific, 2018 and Information Technology from the University of Fiji, 2020. She has worked as a programmer at the University of the South Pacific and the Ministry of Education (2015 - 2021). She has also lectured at the Fulton University College (2016) in Nadi, Fiji. She left the civil service after 6 years to begin an ICT consultancy business in 2021, which she currently runs. She has more than 19 years of community service volunteering with not-for-profits and disadvantaged groups in Fiji.
In 2022 she announced as a political candidate for the Peoples Alliance party, which went on the win the election and form the government. She was unsuccessful but remains determined to win a seat at the next election in 2026.
She is currently exploring business opportunities in the aquaculture industry with particular emphasis on technology that can drive its sustainable growth in Fiji.
Marah Fritz, Foreign Service Officer, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
My name is Marah Fritz. I am from Nauru which is also known as the "Pleasant Island." I come from the Emea tribe which is one of the 12 tribes which are depicted as the 12-pointed star on our National flag.
I currently work with the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade and I also run my own baking business at home.
My inspiration and passion to bake has been passed down by my mother, who taught herself how to bake using magazine recipes. Now I wish to gain as much training and experience in this field to continue to pass down the legacy to my daughter. Not only is it a passion but also a means of empowering young women in the Pacific to become independent, resilient and creative, all of which can slowly impact the economic and social development of my country.
Fun fact: Our tribes in Nauru are inherited through our matrilineal links. My tribal (Emea) characteristics are: Beautiful eyes, of low rank, sly and aggressive, and users of the engow (rake). Which means we are the servants of the higher-ranking class of our country. I proudly represent my tribe through the modern way of serving my country and its people, through baking and hopefully teaching others how to start their own bakery business, though not in a sly and aggressive way.
Clare Guria, Self-Employed Freelance Graphic and Visual Designer
I am a freelance graphic/visual designer of a start-up graphic design business called Clarebear Designs.
Also, I share my time participating in advocacy work around my community back home, focusing on the Persons with Disability (PWD) inclusion movement.
I am a proud Deaf woman. I have a Bachelor Degree in Design (Interactive & Visual Design) from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) through the Australian Government scholarship (AA-PNG). I am passionate about helping others and giving back to my community by breaking barriers of persons with disability. I want to improve myself and my community back home especially the Deaf community.
I am happy to be participating in this Professional Fellowship Program by the US Department of State for 5-weeks. Learning from both Deaf and hearing professionals in Hawaii, Rochester NY and Washington, DC. My two goals to learn from this program is entrepreneurship and inclusion leadership.
Joshua Peauafi, Community Partnerships Lead, Fujitsu Oceania
Mālō e lelei, kia ora and hello, my name is Joshua Peauafi, I am from Tongan and New Zealand European descent, born and raised in Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Wellington, Aotearoa New Zealand. My experience and expertise include Community Development, Youth Development, Social Impact, Relationship Management and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. I am an experienced connector and thrive in spaces where there is potential to explore cross-cultural conversations and collaboration. I'm interested in the experiences of people navigating complexities and the potential for positive social impact, that drives and strengthens positive social outcomes.
Holding a Bachelor of Arts from Victoria University of Wellington majoring in Pacific Studies and Media Studies. While also holding a certificate in Professional Supervision in the workplace, Foundation Certificate in Youth Mentoring in Aotearoa New Zealand, Response Ability-Pathways Certificate.
I am a co-founder and the Programme Manager at Potplant Studio, in which we engage specific audiences with plant workshops that highlight, engage and normalize conversations around mental health, well-being, sustainability and identity. We have recently delivered workshops to over 80 Pacific Youth across the greater Wellington Region specifically within areas of high Pacific peoples population.
I have had the privilege to speak on Cultural Innovative Practices "The Plastic Polynesian Conversation" to a wide range of audiences, such as the Aspiring Leaders Forum, June 2017, July 2018, June 2019, Ara Taiohi Involve Conference Speaker 2020 and 2021, Y-tech, Beyond the Code 2022, Young Pacific Leaders Conference in Guam April 2023 as an Alumni mentor and speaker, while also being awarded a New Zealander of the Year Local Hero Award, Kiwibank Local Hero Medalists 2021 for my work.
I was also honored to have been selected to attend the Young Pacific Leaders Civic Leaders Workshop in Sydney September 2022, Young Pacific Leaders TechCamp for Climate Action October 2022 and the Young Pacific Leaders Alumni Voyagers Programme November 2023.
Sagaga Safega, Youth Manager, Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport
Talofa and Mahalo.
My name is Sagaga Safega from the beautiful island of Tuvalu. I am currently working as a youth manager under the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport. This unit is one of the smallest in the government, but it is also one of the most important.
I have been working in this department for almost 10 years. Personally, this is not just a job - it is an area of unwavering passion. I have found great fulfillment during my time as a young person who is effectively involved in family, community, and church activities with children, women, youths, and those with special needs.
Doing such work is vital as I see myself as a co-working person where I am representing the voice of young people from the national level to the grassroots, advocating for our needs to the government and to our counterparts locally and internationally.
I am passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people in Tuvalu. I believe that all young people have the potential to succeed, and I am committed to providing them with the support and resources they need to reach their full potential.
I am also committed to working with the government and other stakeholders to develop and implement policies and programs that will support the development of young people in Tuvalu. I believe that by working together, we can create a brighter future for all Tuvaluan youth.
My participation in this program has allowed me to enhance my knowledge and skills in building networks that aid and support us, small island countries, in becoming successful entrepreneurs in the long term. Given the high rate of youth unemployment in Tuvalu, I perceive this opportunity as an avenue for conducting business coaching programs for youths. This platform will undoubtedly provide opportunities for youths to at least earn a daily income. It also serves as a means of improving the unemployment rate in my country, where youths are encouraged to engage in local businesses, such as reviving our traditional knowledge in terms of handicrafts and local products.
I aspire to share my experiences with all Tuvaluans, empowering them to commence their entrepreneurial ventures with confidence and achieve long-term success.
Paul Sukulu, Livelihood Development Coordinator, SCALE-NRM/Winrock International
Aloha and halo Olgeta! My name is Paul Rodney Sukulu from the beautiful Solomon Islands. I am the eldest of my five siblings having a brother and four beautiful sisters. Family is always a priority to me, and I love spending time with my siblings and parents.
I reflect a variety of personality including ambition, and the qualities of generosity and thoughtfulness. I am also a well determined individual, yet pleasantly calm and easy to get along. I encourage fighting for what one desire and believe in life and doing so through God, because nothing great comes easy and with God everything is possible.
I am a full-time community worker in my country, motivated by the love to help those in need and without a voice, hence, I find giving back to communities has always a big part of my life while learning - and navigating life as I strive to become a successful person in today’s society. With the definite goal to becoming a recognize leader in my country in the future, I continue to develop myself and recently completed a Master’s Degree in Agriculture and Rural Development, at Okayama University in Japan. Ever since I have been working as a Livelihood Development Coordinator for the USAid SCALE-NRM project in Solomon Islands while an active member of the JICA-SI Alumnae group and now soon to be a Cohort of East-West Center alumnae network.
Through my passion for helping other whenever I can, I have embraced a fascinating interest to work with disadvantage people in society as I was one of these people growing up in the rural villages. As a teenager growing up, I realize life is not going to be easy, and so I always work hard and determine to have good education believing that through education one can live a fulfilling life. Being a very discipline student, I held various leadership roles during my school days, such as class captain, school prefect, vice head boy and group president. I was the 2013-14 Alafua Campus Vice President for the School of Agriculture and Food Technology of the South Pacific in Samoa where my passion for leadership grew event bigger. Again, going home to Solomon Islands after graduating with a bachelor’s degree, I faced the challenge of finding employment, however that did not take long as I applied for work with Save the Children Australia, Solomon Island country office and were offered a space to work as Program Quality Officer for the very first time in professional work where I spend 2 years. I later joined the Ministry of Education and work for yet another 2 years as National Program Officer for the literacy and numeracy management unit.
An opportunity came in 2017, and I was selected together with 42 other potential young leaders from the Pacific Island countries to study in Japan under the Leader’s Educational Assistance for Development of State or Pacific-LEADs program, a bilateral scholarship program by the Japanese government. Upon returning home to the Solomon Islands, I was fortunate to be given a chance to work as a Livelihood development Coordinator for the USAid-SCALE-NRM project, where I am currently working.
My general view on life, be always who you are and always trust in yourself, because when no one does, the only person that can still do is yourself.
Teemwari Tanentoa, Lead InCountry Program Coordinator, Kindling Kiribati
Teemwari Totiana Tanentoa is native to Kiribati and fluent in 3 languages. She is In Country Lead Coordinator Of Kindling Kiribati Small Business Development of Kiribati. She loves to read and learn more about other cultures and languages. She served an LDS mission in the Philippines where she learned Tagalog. She has a passion for helping others, Teemwari is excited to help her native people of Kiribati and support Kindling Kiribati.
Excited to connect with the East-West Centre and Pacific BusinessCcenter Program to learn more skills and knowledge to make a difference.
Paulini Turagabeci, Writer & Editor, Kulawai Press
Paulini Turagabeci is an indigenous Fijian writer and publisher at Kulawai Press, a Suva-based publishing house that is committed to centering indigenous characters and amplifying Pasika voices in literature.