In this newsletter,

• Miriam Reihana shares business journey on 531PI

• Hatch Pacific 2023 graduation

• Bob Lemalu: From Adversity to Achievements

• Join KAVAX talanoa series at Four Shells Kava Lounge in Tairāwhiti

• Book Now - Risk management workshop 

• Join our team today - we're hiring

• Upcoming Pricing to win workshop

Miriam Reihana shares business journey on 531PI

This week's talanoa with 531PI is business owner Miriam Reihana founder of Lashed Beauty based in Christchurch. Miriam has more than 10 years experience in the industry and during her interview she shared, "As a Pacific person, we often tend to seek the security of a stable job, but now I find myself at a point where I'm exploring new possibilities and going my own way."  She talked about her inspiring journey of starting her business 10 years ago as a side hustle while working a full-time job and how it changed when she was made redundant from her job 5 years ago. Taking this as an opportunity, Miriam decided to turn her side hustle into a full-time venture. With her passion for the products and services she offered, the business grew steadily over the past 5 years and she now owns 2 salons with a dedicated team of staff.

Miriam's drive for independence and stepping away from the safety of someone else's business pushed her to become a business owner. At first, she wasn't sure what to expect, but her dedication and commitment paid off, and everything fell into place. Throughout her journey, Miriam received support from PBT which played a significant role in helping her achieve success.

Miriam's story serves as a true inspiration for others looking to follow their dreams and build something of their own. Her passion, experience, and determination have led her to a fulfilling entrepreneurial journey, proving that taking that leap of faith can lead to incredible achievements.

Click here to support her business journey. 

Hatch Pacific 2023 Graduation

Congratulations to our HatchPacific NZ 2023 Foundation, Vaka, and Start-up cohorts for their outstanding achievements. This month, we marked a significant milestone celebrating the graduation of these cohorts from our programme. Over the course of 8-12 weeks, they embarked on a journey with our team, delving into the realms of business and entrepreneurship.

One of the highlights of this event was the opportunity for participants to come together for the first time since they joined Hatch Pacific. Despite being part of the programme for over 2 years and due to the impact of COVID-19, this event provided a unique chance for the cohorts to meet, connect, and celebrate their collective accomplishments.

Our Hatch Pacific programme is designed to equip participants with valuable insights into the world of business while fostering their entrepreneurial skills. All participants successfully completed the programme, demonstrating their dedication and commitment to their personal and professional growth.

The programme was delivered with the support of MSD (Ministry of Social Development). If you are interested in joining our next intake check out our website or click here to find out more or give our team a call on 0800 287 7526.

Bob Lemalu: From Adversity to Achievements

In an interview with real estate salesperson Bob Lemalu, he shared how his upbringing influenced his values and principles. His mom always reminded him and his siblings, "aua le gaoi," which means "don't steal." She emphasised the importance of credibility and integrity and these reminders stuck with him throughout life.

As a proud Kiwi with Samoan roots, Bob grew up in the lively community of Mangere, South Auckland. His journey to success has been a testament to resilience and determination.

Bob's career in real estate started with an internship, where he discovered his passion for the job has never looked back. Driven by his love for entrepreneurship and real estate, he sought reference from Reverend Setefano. During their conversation, Setefano shared a message that deeply resonated with Bob: "Bob will represent his family, community, and himself well." This message instilled in him a strong sense of responsibility to his community and heritage.

Like any entrepreneur, Bob faced challenges and moments of self-doubt. However, the support of his family, friends and colleagues, coupled with his faith, helped him overcome obstacles. 

Bob attended our financial literacy workshops which he said significantly contributed to his professional growth. We were able to connect him with like-minded individuals who faced similar challenges and where he also recognised the power of continuous learning and the need for further training in sales.

As a licensed real estate salesperson, Bob is highly regarded for his honesty, dedication, and laser-like focus on achieving exceptional results for his clients. He has a natural talent for connecting with people from all walks of life, earning him the nickname "The Peoples Agent" from a satisfied client.

His strategic marketing expertise sets him apart, consistently achieving remarkable outcomes for his vendors, setting street records in sale prices, and impressing competitors.

Despite his success, Bob remains down-to-earth and devoted to his family. He cherishes precious moments with loved ones and actively engages with the community, enjoying local rugby games as a way to connect with his neighbors.

Bob journey serves as a testament to the power of values, community support, and determination. It resonates deeply within the Pacific community, empowering individuals to embrace their heritage and dreams. 

To get in touch with him for support or advice click here. 

Join KAVAX Talanoa Series at Four Shells Kava Lounge in Tairāwhiti

We are thrilled to announce that KAVAX an empowering mental health initiative, is making its way to Tairāwhiti! Calling all ladies and gentlemen in the region to join for a series of talanoa sessions hosted by Four Shells Kava Lounge, where they will be focusing on mental distress, sharing stories, and exploring solutions using the beautiful Pasefika culture.

At Four Shells Kava, they understand the importance of healing through the power of connection and storytelling. Through these talanoa sessions, they aim to create a safe and supportive space for the community to open up about their experiences and find strength in their shared journey.

Mental Distress in the Moana for Ladies

Where: Gisborne Yacht Club  Kaiti Beach Rd 

When: 27 July, 6:30 - 8:30pm

Mental Distress in the Moana for Men

Where: Gisborne Yacht Club  Kaiti Beach Rd 

When: 27 July, 2:00 - 4:00pm

Open Mic Celebration: At the conclusion of the talanoa sessions, we will host an open mic where we celebrate the power of oratory expression. Share your stories and experiences through spoken word, poetry, or any other form of creative expression. Let your voice be heard, and let us all stand united in support and solidarity.

While the event is free, we request that you register to secure your spot around the kumete, as space is limited. During the talanoa, traditional kava and meaka'i will be provided for all to enjoy. Experience the essence of Pasefika culture and its healing properties through these special offerings.

The event is extended to all Pasefika allies to come along and be a part of it. Let's join hands, uplift one another and embrace the healing power of our culture. 

To register or find out more about this event visit here or reach out to Four Shells Kava Lounge. 

Book Now - Risk Management Workshop 

Have you booked for our Risk Management workshop? Join us on August 10 at our Penrose office from 4 - 6pm to learn about "Understanding Key Concepts of Risk Management" for Pasifka businesses in Construction industry. Designed for small to medium-sized businesses like yours, this transformative session will equip you with essential techniques to identify, analyse and tackle risks head-on.

Workshop Highlights:

• Learn to spot potential risks specific to your business

• Analyse and evaluate risks with confidence

• Discover effective ways to overcome challenges and make the most of opportunities

Date: 10 August Time: 4 - 6pm Location: Level 2, 45 O'rorke Road, Penrose

Secure your spot now to learn about risk management and elevate your business to new heights! Catered Pasifika dinner will be provided at the end of the session.

Don't wait! Register now or call our Procurement team on 0800 287 7256 if you have any questions. 

Register Now

Join our team today - We're hIring

Are you ready to make a difference and be part of our dedicated team that maximizes opportunities for our Pasifika business community? Don't miss out on this exciting chance to contribute to meaningful growth and success

Job Openings:

• Chief Operation Officer - Click here to apply

• Business Development Advisor - Click here to apply

• Data Analyst - Click here to apply

Hurry! All applications close on 31 July. Don't miss out apply now! 

Upcoming Pricing to Win Workshop

Join us on August 17 for the Pricing to Win workshop, calling all eager learners in Tamaki Makarau! We had an amazing turnout at our recent 'Understanding Tenders and Contracts' workshop in Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Wellington and we want to extend a huge fakamalo lahi to everyone who attended. Your presence and engagement were truly appreciated.

We're incredibly excited to offer this opportunity to Pasifika business owners in the construction industry! We understand that the topic might seem overwhelming at first, but rest assured it's a wonderful chance to connect with both new and established businesses. You'll gain valuable insights and feel more confident in your pricing strategies, setting the stage for even greater success!

Developed in collaboration with our work with large suppliers, contractors, and businesses seeking Pasifika enterprises to fulfill contracts, this workshop shares the very latest knowledge and expertise on tender pricing and best practices.

During the workshop

• you'll explore essential concepts for pricing in construction

• learn how to build up the price

• understand how the price is evaluated.

We'll also provide you with resources including pricing templates and quoting guidelines. Plus, our facilitator Saimone will offer an external perspective on receiving tender submissions.

At the end of the workshop there will be catered dinner provided allowing an opportunity to connect and share experiences with other entrepreneurs in the room. 

Click here to secure your spot now. Thank you for your ongoing support, and we can't wait to see you at our next series of upcoming workshops!

Thursday, 17 August 2023

4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Pacific Business Hub

Unit 6/20 Lambie Drive, Manukau

Register Now

Stay safe and have a great week!