Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod

This week the Two Palagi Talanoa features Sharyne Fong discussing her journey as a leader in Fiji, her role in Leadership Fiji, and the importance of leadership development in the Pacific context. The dialogue explores the evolution of Leadership Fiji, its programs, and the impact of community engagement projects on participants and their communities. The conversation explores the unique aspects of leadership in Fiji, emphasizing the importance of cultural intelligence and the evolving dynamics between generations of leaders. Sharyne Fong shares insights on the significance of understanding cultural connections and the challenges faced by emerging leaders in adapting to modern expectations.

Takeaways

• Leadership is action, not position
• Community engagement fosters growth Cultural intelligence is crucial
• Younger leaders seek purpose

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction to Two Palagi
• 04:51 Sharyne Fong and Leadership Fiji
• 13:21 Lifelong learning, networks and leadership
• 19:17 Community projects tied to a ten-year vision
• 22:11 Leadership and the brain gain
• 23:58 Global perspectives
• 25:07 Cultural intelligence
• 28:42 Younger leaders
• 30:59 Cultural induction and local advisors
• 33:25 Insight Business Advisory and Insight Your Success
• 36:16 Mentorship
• 36:20 Talanoa Summary
• 43:05 Navigating cultural contexts
• 47:17 Upcoming events
• 50:58 Two Palagi Outro

Resources

Website - https://twopalagi.com/

Email - [email protected]

Leadership Fiji - https://share.google/iyMr06itjo8kRMKzO

Insight Business Advisory - https://share.google/WWCgIZfF1h3pBmyhH

Insight Your Success Podcast - https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/insight-your-success-with-sharyne-fong/7271874

Counterpoint Media Group - https://counterpoint.digital/

Greenhouse Studio - https://greenhouse.studio/

Ownership

The Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Podcast and all related intellectual property is owned by 2PP Pacific Commerce Ltd who reserve all rights to publication and usage.

In this episode the Two Palagi talk with New Zealand's Trade Commissioner for the Pacific who is leading a NZ presence at the HOTEC trade show in Nadi. Together they explore the Trade Show, highlighting key insights about the evolving tourism landscape in Fiji. It emphasizes the shift towards quality in products and the importance of local partnerships in enhancing the tourism experience.

Takeaways

• Increased focus on quality over price
• Emerging trends in local partnerships

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction to Two Palagi
• 11:15 Introduction to the HOTEC Trade Show
• 14:00 Trends and Changes in the Tourism Sector
• 18:41 Food Trends
• 21:40 Advice for HOTEC Delegates
• 24:41 Walk Through HOTEC
• 32:28 Highlights and Gala Dinner
• 34:47 Talanoa Summary
• 38:49 Launch of Pasifika+ Digital Platform
• 40:09 Israel Joins the Pacific Islands Forum
• 42:35 Upcoming Conference and Events
• 44:40 Economic Outlook and Energy Challenges
• 46:20 Two Palagi Outro

Resources

Website - www.twopalagi.com

Email - [email protected]

HOTEC - https://fhta.com.fj/event/hotec-tradeshow-2026/

NZTE AusPac - https://www.nzte.govt.nz/page/contact-our-australia-pacific-offices

The Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod podcast is the property of 2PP Pacific Commerce Ltd with all rights reserved to the content and related intellectual property.

In this episode, Dave and Glen engage with Giles Jephcott, chair of the New Zealand Pacific Business Council and MD at Astrolabe Shipping, discussing his journey and experiences in the Pacific business landscape. They explore the significance of relationship building, the success of recent business missions, and insights from the Samoan business community, while also reflecting on future improvements and plans for the council. The conversation explores the challenges faced in logistics, and the role of organizations like the New Zealand Pacific Business Council and Astrolabe Shipping. Insights into market strategies, brand loyalty, and the evolving consumer landscape in the Pacific are also discussed.

Takeaways

• Importance of relationship building
• Success of recent business mission Importance of relationships
• Challenges in Pacific logistics

Chapters

• 00:06 Introduction to Two Palagi
• 06:45 Introduction to Giles Jephcott and the Pacific Business Council
• 12:21 The Role of the Pacific Business Council
• 15:24 The Council's 2026 Mission to Samoa
• 20:25 Samoan Business Community Perspectives
• 23:26 Reflections and Future Improvements
• 25:03 Council AGM
• 26:11 Pacific Islands Forum 2027
• 26:53 Astrolabe Shipping: Focus and Operations
• 29:07 Challenges in Pacific Shipping
• 31:15 Common Misunderstandings in Pacific Business
• 33:43 Fresha: New Zealand Products to Pacific
• 36:01 Marketing Strategies for Pacific Consumers
• 37:02 Final Thoughts
• 38:23 Talanoa Summary
• 41:53 Recent Developments
• 46:32 Upcoming Conferences and Events

Contact Two Palagi

www.twopalagi.com - https://twopalagi.com/

Email - [email protected]

Show Resources

Astrolabe Shipping - https://astrolabeshipping.com/

New Zealand Pacific Business Council - https://www.nzpbc.co.nz/

Fresha Export - https://www.fresha.co.nz/

Future of Investment and Trade Partnership - https://www.meti.gov.sg/trade-international-economic-relations/regional-and-international-platforms/future-of-investment-and-trade-partnership/

FCEF TOPEX Conference - https://www.fcef.com.fj/topex-2025-ignite-innovation-at-fijis-premier-business-event/

Copyright and Rights

The Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod podcast, and all related intellectual property, is owned by 2PP Pacific Commerce Ltd who reserve all rights to publication and copyright.

The Two Palagi attended the Oceania Renewable Energy Summit so Dave and Glen discuss the summit itself and have a Talanoa with Cook Island's energy regulator Dean Yarrall. Dean also leads the Office of the Pacific Energy Regulators Alliance (OPERA) so has a unique region-wide view of energy transition and the challenges and opportunities in the Pacific. Dave also ran the Pacific stream of the summit so got to interact with some great speakers!

Takeaways

• Climate and energy focus
• Regulatory challenges in Pacific

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction to Two Palagi
• 07:11 Discussion with Dean Yarrall
• 08:07 The Oceania Renewable Power Summit
• 09:12 Dean Yarrall's Background and Role
• 11:40 Transitioning the Cook Islands Energy System
• 16:43 Innovative Solutions for Energy Management
• 17:10 Complexity of Renewable Energy
• 19:54 Solar Power in the Pacific
• 22:29 Economic Factors
• 24:00 The Role of Regulators
• 25:43 Independent Power Producers
• 38:50 Talanoa Summary
• 41:02 Insights from the Pre-COP Meeting
• 44:10 Prospectus of Renewable Energy Projects
• 45:57 The Week Ahead and Outro

Resources

Two Palagi Website - https://twopalagi.com

Contact Two Palagi - [email protected]

Oceania Renewable Power Summit - https://oceaniapowersummit.com/

OPERA - https://gem.spc.int/projects/opera

'Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod' and all related content, trademarks, intellectual property, and copyright are the exclusive property of 2PP Pacific Commerce Ltd, a New Zealand-registered company. All rights reserved.

The conversation focuses on the significance of the tourism industry in Fiji, discussing its economic impact, challenges, and recovery post-COVID. Fantasha Lockington, CEO of the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association, shares insights on the industry's dynamics, including local ownership, climate challenges, and recent tax changes. The conversation delves into the complexities of tourism development in Fiji, focusing on sustainable growth, community involvement, and the importance of infrastructure. Fantasha Lockington emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to tourism that includes planning for future needs and ensuring local communities benefit from the industry. Good timing ahead of the Hotel and Tourism Expo being held in Nadi October 22 & 23.

Takeaways

• Tourism is Fiji's economic backbone
• Local ownership is crucial for sustainability Sustainable tourism growth is essential
• Community involvement is crucial

Chapters

• 00:06 Introduction to Two Palagi
• 03:22 www.twopalagi.com
• 06:08 Introduction to Fantasha Lockington
• 11:14 Economic Impact of Tourism in Fiji
• 15:02 Recovery from COVID-19 and Current Challenges
• 21:03 The New Tourism Tax and its Implications
• 25:22 Room Availability and Investment
• 30:13 The Importance of Sustainable Planning for Future Growth
• 31:57 Community Engagement and Local Workforce Development
• 34:23 Talanoa Summary
• 41:27 Climate and Energy in the Week Ahead
• 47:34 Outro for the Week

Resources

Contact Two Palagi - [email protected]

Website - https://twopalagi.com/

Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association - https://fhta.com.fj/

HOTEC 2026 - https://fhta.com.fj/event/hotec-tradeshow-2026/

The conversation delves into the world of Kava, exploring its preparation, varieties, and the journey of Zane Yoshida in the Kava industry. Zane leads the ASX listed Calmer Company that markets the FijiKava brand. We also discuss the invention of instant Kava and its significance in the Western market. The conversation delves into the cultural and regional consumption of Kava, exploring its historical significance and ceremonial aspects. It also touches on the changing dynamics of Kava consumption, including the inclusion of women and the emergence of Kava bars. Additionally, the health properties of Kava and its impact on the Pacific region's economy are discussed.

Takeaways

• Kava Preparation
• Kava Varieties Cultural Consumption of Kava
• Health Properties of Kava

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction to Two Palagi
• 05:58 Introduction to Zane Yoshida and FijiKava
• 13:18 Zane's Journey
• 23:01 Challenges of Running a Public Company
• 24:26 Market Expansion and Consumer Demographics
• 28:03 Kava Varieties and Cultivation
• 34:06 Kava Across Cultures
• 37:00 Health Benefits and Safety of Kava Consumption
• 40:02 The Future of Kava in Global Markets
• 43:24 Intellectual Property and Kava's Cultural Heritage
• 47:05 Building Relationships Through Kava Traditions
• 50:00 Talanoa Summary
• 53:49 Tax Officers' Meeting
• 56:47 Media Meet in Savu Savu
• 57:41 Close For The Week

Resources

Contact Two Palagi - [email protected]

The Calmer Company - https://thecalmerco.com/

FijiKava - https://fijikava.com.au/

The conversation with owners, Qiuchee and Qiujing Wong, explores the journey of Lukbo, a business specializing in the importation and wholesaling of Pacific Island and Asian food. It delves into the challenges of sourcing, processing, and distributing products from the Pacific region to New Zealand, as well as the family history and legacy of the business. The conversation covers topics such as the impact of automation on quality and scalability, end-to-end processing capability, target consumer market, advertising strategies, sourcing dynamics, and staff retention. Qiuchee and Qiujing also discuss the challenges and opportunities for Pacific Island exporters in the New Zealand and Australian markets.

Takeaways

• Family legacy and community service
• Challenges of sourcing and processing
• Investment in processing capabilities Automation enhances quality and scalability
• Understanding the target consumer market is crucial for growth

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction to Two Palagi
• 03:59 Introduction to the Lukbo Business
• 06:08 The Wong Family Legacy in Food Processing
• 10:31 Challenges of Sourcing and Supply Chain
• 12:47 Investment in Processing Capabilities
• 14:46 Building Relationships with Farmers
• 17:30 The Future of Lukbo
• 21:19 Automation and Scalability
• 22:09 Understanding the Target Consumer
• 26:56 Supply Challanges
• 32:12 Advice for Pacific Island Exporters
• 33:46 Talanoa Summary
• 37:26 Maritime Safety and Recent Tragedy
• 38:31 US Investment Announcement
• 40:13 Green Climate Fund
• 41:32 Aviation Developments
• 42:54 Pacific Media Summit
• 44:19 Arson and Chocolate in Bougaineville
• 45:50 Two Palagi Sign Out

Resources

Contact Two Palagi - [email protected]

Lukbo Food Group - https://lukbo.co.nz

The conversation introduces Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) and Glynis Miller, the Trade Commissioner for PTI based in Auckland. Glynis shares her journey to PTI, highlighting the organization's role as a regional trade and investment promotion agency. The discussion explores PTI's impact on trade and investment in the Pacific, emphasizing its influence on changing the narrative for Pacific exporters and influencing trade policies. The conversation covers the desire for information and connection in the Pacific, insights from the Pacific Island Export Survey, challenges with investment and finance in the Pacific, Pacific exporters going global, freight and logistics challenges for Pacific exporters, and understanding the New Zealand market. Key takeaways include the increasing global reach of Pacific exporters and the ongoing challenges around freight and logistics for Pacific exporters.

Takeaways

• Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) supports exporters and businesses in the Pacific region
• PTI's unique role as a regional trade and investment promotion agency
• Influence of PTI on changing the narrative for Pacific exporters and influencing trade policies Pacific exporters are increasingly going global
• Challenges around freight and logistics for Pacific exporters

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction to Two Palagi
• 07:00 Introduction to Glynis Miller
• 11:30 Pacific Trade and Invest
• 14:58 PTI's Operations and Initiatives
• 19:36 New Zealand Market Dynamics
• 22:46 Recent Trade Mission to Samoa
• 23:14 Insights from the Pacific Islands Export Survey
• 25:04 Investment Challenges in the Pacific
• 31:12 Talanoa Conclusion
• 32:01 Ocean of Flavours Event
• 35:04 Talanoa Takeouts
• 39:08 Developments in the Solomon Islands
• 41:16 Papua LNG Pending Announcement
• 42:43 Fiji Airways Record and Aviation Announcements
• 45:01 Upcoming Events
• 46:35 Listener Feedback and Two Palagi Outro

Resources

Two Palagi - [email protected]

Pacific Trade and Invest - https://pacifictradeinvest.com/

Ocean of Flavours - https://www.aut.ac.nz/events/ocean-of-flavours

Samoa Association of Manufacturers and Exporters - https://samesamoa.ws/

The conversation covers Tony Fautua's diplomatic career, transition to the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), and the role of the Adventist Church in the Pacific. It also explores the evolution and influence of the Adventist Church, ADRA's mission and global network, and its collaboration with the Adventist Church. It also explores ADRTA's connection to the Sanitarium business, the impact of business success on ADRA's funding and the organization's relationship with businesses in the region.

Takeaways

• Diplomatic career and humanitarian work
• Role of the Adventist Church in the Pacific ADRA's work in the Pacific
• The impact of business success on ADRA's funding

Chapters

• 00:06 Introduction to Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod
• 03:29 Introduction to Tony Fautua
• 07:52 Tony's Diplomatic Career and Experiences
• 11:57 Overview of ADRA
• 17:49 ADRA in the Pacific
• 20:16 The Relationship Between ADRA and Sanitarium
• 22:01 Challenges and Adaptations Post-COVID
• 25:28 Importance of Local Engagement
• 30:26 Community Impact
• 31:19 Talanoa Summary
• 37:21 Pacific Islands Forum Outcomes
• 42:55 Penrhyn Port Collaboration
• 43:57 Australia's Investment in Regional Security
• 47:27 The Kava Declaration
• 50:19 Two Palagi Outro

Resources

Two Palagi - [email protected]

ADRA - https://adra.org.nz/

Sanitarium - https://www.sanitarium.com/au

Glen and Dave discuss the Pacific business landscape, community involvement, and the significance of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) in driving economic activity and decision-making in the region. They explore the structure and decision-making process of the PIF, emphasizing the importance of consensus and actionable outcomes. The Troika and its relevance for New Zealand's upcoming hosting of the PIF are also highlighted. The conversation then explores key business topics for the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) discussions, focusing on energy, infrastructure, investment, tourism, aviation, trade, digital connectivity, and cybersecurity. The theme of 'Building Economies, Life, Action, Unity' is emphasized, reflecting the forum's focus. Additionally, the conversation addresses trade policy and business engagement within the PIF.

Takeaways

• The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) is a consensus-based organization that drives actionable outcomes and economic activity in the region.
• Key business topics for PIF discussions
• Renewable energy transition and economic impact
• Trade policy and business engagement

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Pacific Business
• 00:55 Community and Sports in the Pacific
• 02:14 Podcasting and Music Industry
• 03:36 Business Podcasting in the Pacific
• 04:49 Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Explained
• 07:01 PIF Attendees and Discussions
• 12:38 PIF Decision Making and Machinery
• 21:20 Consensus and Action in PIF
• 25:21 The Troika and its Relevance
• 27:30 Bikotawa Declaration and Regional Assistance
• 29:51 Key Business Topics for PIF Discussions
• 30:45 Energy Crisis and Regionalized Fuel Procurement
• 33:07 Infrastructure and ICT Connectivity
• 34:03 Renewable Energy Transition and Economic Impact
• 36:04 Collaborative Pooling Opportunities and Pacific Resilience Facility
• 39:23 Building Economies, Life, Action, Unity
• 43:35 Trade Policy and Business Engagement

Resources

The Pacific Islands Forum - https://forumsec.org/pacific-islands-forum

Contact

[email protected]