Hosted by the Waikato Pacific Business Network
Waikato Pacific Business Network was honored to host Hon. Minister Aupito William Sio and Ministry for Pacific Peoples members, Viliami Lia’vaa and Lu Avia at the Perry House on the 5th of May 2022 in Hamilton.
With many in attendance there was a range of pacific businesses and pacific business providers throughout the Waikato.
Business Navigator, Teuila Maggof provided insight on what 2022 will look like for the Network. Making sure replication isn’t happening when assisting pacific-owned businesses. Teuila shared the number of businesses she has been able to reach out to in Waikato, and what she finds is the most widespread problem businesses in Waikato are facing.
Aliitaeao (Tj) Asiata from LM4 Group and Oyonnx shared with us his personal growth and how LM4 empowers businesses and helps people succeed. Oyonnx is quite similar, as Tj spoke about his team and the consulting services that they provide, having an in-depth understanding surrounding the challenges business owners face. From start up to finish, Oyonnx wants to help businesses achieve their goals.
We also heard from Tonga Robertson, creative director of Nest Interiors and Design. Tonga shared how funding from the Ministry for Pacific People gave her the ability to provide an employment pathway for a Wintec interior design student of Niuean decent. Tonga highlighted that her diverse team enables many benefits when team working and being a productive business.
Landy and Jordan, both partners in life and business, founders of Talents of the Pacific Academy (TOPA). TOPA provides 24 language classes, and has classes in dancing, and performing arts, working with approximately 3500 students. As age is no factor – Jordan and Landy both talk about the importance of multiculturalism and interculturalism, reiterating “There is a reason we are born Pacifica”.
After Mefi Naufahu led the closing prayer it was time to mix and mingle and get networking. Tokoroa based catering company, Hilltop Catering provided delicious treats that were highly enjoyed.
For more photos from our Ministerial Meeting – Click Here
Waikato Pacific Business Network would like to send out a thank you and appreciate the time taken out to attend this meeting to the following:
Ministry for Pacific Peoples Minister and Members, NEST Interior Designs Ltd, Norris Ward McKinnon members, Talents of the Pacific Academy, Pivot, Waikato Community Tongan Trust, LUVA, Hilltop Catering, NIWA members, LM4 Group, Oyonnx and ITSM Draughting Services.