The Samoa branch of the Auckland-established Samoa Business Network (S.B.N.) has taken the next step in growing the organisation’s foothold in the country, holding its first Annual General Meeting at Tanoa Tusitala Hotel on Thursday night.

Launched in November last year by the Prime Minister, this was the third event held by S.B.N. Samoa and combined the A.G.M. with a networking activity.

“Our mission is to provide a platform for Samoan business people and entrepreneurs to connect and collaborate with like-minded people – not only here, but across New Zealand and the Pacific, and the rest of the world,” said newly-elected S.B.N. Samoa President, Afamasaga Jackie Curry.

“There are about 500,000 Samoans living outside of Samoa. This means the potential to grow our network and promote Samoan businesses, and products and services, globally – by leveraging these connections here and abroad – is exponential.”

Given the significant number of new businesses and young business people engaging in start-ups in Samoa at the moment, S.B.N. Samoa also used the A.G.M. as an opportunity to formalise a Youth Entrepreneurship Group, focused specifically on developing ideas and providing support for entrepreneurs aged under 30.

This group will be led by S.B.N. Executive Youth Representative, Beatrice Ott, Manager of Vaitele’s newest café, Kofe Haus. 

“When I first started out, it was difficult finding connections to services and suppliers – having access to good advice, and people with industry experience, through a network like S.B.N. will make a huge difference for other young people starting out too,” said Beatrice.

Following the A.G.M. the New Zealand High Commissioner, H.E. David Nicholson, addressed attendees, sharing some words on business development and opportunities in Samoa and the Pacific, before the networking element of the evening kicked off.

An accomplished businessman himself, the High Commissioner encouraged members to work together, look at long-term sustainability and make the most of the opportunities that will roll out across the region in the future.

The S.B.N. has varying membership packages available for businesses, not-for-profits, individual professionals, youth and students.

The S.B.N. would like to thank and acknowledge the support of their sponsors for this event – Tanoa Tuistala Hotel, Taula Beverages, Liquor Planet and Eveni Samoa.

Chairperson Afamasaga Jackie Curry (Spacific Marketing) 

Treasurer Clay Paul (H & H Holdings) 

Secretary Ashlene Paul (Goldstar Co. Ltd)

Board Members Etu Tusitala (E-Life Company) & River Burich (Vaoala Vanilla)

Youth Representative Beatrice Ott (Kofe Haus)  

For more information on the Samoa Business Network, please contact Afamasaga Jackie Curry on +685 766 7444 or [email protected].  You can also find them on Facebook or visit the website: www.samoabusinessnetwork.org