Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod

Summary

In this episode, Glen and Dave explore disaster management and business continuity planning through a talanoa with Vasiti Soko who was the first female director of Fiji’s National Disaster Management Office. Vasiti led the organisation through COVID 19 as well as through a number of natural emergencies. The talanoa comes off the back of Dave working with Vasiti on facilitation of a webinar discussing the fuel crisis with Fiji’s Business Disaster and Resilience Council and examines important topics like business continuity planning.

Keywords

Pacific region, disaster management, economic frameworks, fuel crisis, Pacific investment, Fiji, Samoa, regional development

Key  topics

Pacific Value for Investment Model (P-VIM)

Government budgets and regional economic policies

Vasiti Soko’s career journey from Fiji to UC Berkeley

Leadership and trust-building in disaster management

The role of NDMO in Fiji and regional influence

Business continuity planning and crisis preparedness

The importance of relationship building before crises

Empowering local experts and Pacific communities

Disaster management framework: assess, prepare, respond, recover

System level thinking and regional cooperation

Guest Name

Visiti Soko

Sound bites

"Vasiti Soko's role in disaster management"

"New framework evaluates community benefits"

"Pacific budgets reflect regional priorities”

"You can't change the person but you can change the relationship"

"Assess the situation, prepare, respond, recover"

"When dealing with the Pacific, do things wholeheartedly from the heart"

Chapters

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

05:04 Economic Announcements and Regional Developments

05:29 Transitioning to the Talanoa with Vasiti Soko

06:29 Introduction to Vasiti Soko 

09:33 Vasiti's Journey to Leadership in Disaster Management

13:23 Lessons from Leading the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO)

17:50 The Role of NDMO in Crisis Management and Coordination

20:32 The Role of NDMO in Crisis Management

21:54 Business Continuity Planning: A Necessity

23:18 Building Relationships for Effective Disaster Response

25:12 Leveraging Local Resources in Crisis Situations

27:35 Entrepreneurial Ventures and Community Impact

30:36 Conclusion and Reflections on the Discussion

36:30 The NZ Fiji Business Council Heads to Fiji

38:34 PM Rabuka plays Waltzing Matilda

42:30 Read out

Resources

VPAC Consultancy - https://pacific-vigil.com

BCP Template - https://pacific-vigil.com/pacific-ready

Pacific AI Recruit - https://pacific-ai-talent.replit.app/talent/

Fiji Hub - https://fiji-travel-hub.replit.app/

Content  type

Interview

Summary

Dave is safely back in Rarotonga but while he was in Fiji he had a Talanoa with Craig Smith from Fiji's Counterpoint Group. Craig shares insights on digital innovation in Fiji's tourism sector, regional tech development, and the future of AI and digital tools in the Pacific. Discover how local businesses are transforming and the opportunities for growth and collaboration across the region.

Glen and Dave also discuss recent developments in the Pacific, including digital connectivity, business innovations, trade relations, and regional events, highlighting opportunities and challenges in the region.

Keywords

Fiji, tourism, digital innovation, AI, Pacific, technology, small business, regional development, digital transformation, tourism technology

Key  topics

Digital transformation in Fiji's tourism sector

Integration of AI and data analytics in Pacific businesses

Regional collaboration and tech development in the Pacific

Fiji-New Zealand trade relations and exports

Renewable energy initiatives in Fiji

Regional business leadership and community impact

Takeaways

Digital tools are empowering small tourism operators in Fiji to compete globally.

AI and data integration are key to unlocking new business opportunities in the Pacific.

Regional collaboration and knowledge sharing are vital for Pacific's digital growth.

Guest  name

Craig Smith

Titles

How Fiji's Tech Sector is Revolutionizing Tourism

The Future of AI and Digital Tools in the Pacific

Sound bites

"Low broadband penetration was a common challenge."

"Training on AI tools is key to future growth."

"Human connection remains vital in Pacific tourism."

Chapters

00:00 Two Palagi Introduction

03:56 Introduction to Counterpoint Group and Fiji's Digital Landscape

05:58 Craig Smith's Journey and Background

08:25 Fiji's IT Scene and Opportunities

13:33 Counterpoint Group's Services and Community Engagement

17:59 Nabuki and Bokoon: Innovations in Tourism Technology

22:08 The Role of AI in Fiji's Business Landscape

26:25 Final Thoughts and Future Opportunities

28:12 The week ahead

Resources

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

Summary

With Dave freshly back from attending the Pacific Business Opportunities Seminar (PBOS) in Nadi, Glen and Dave discuss the key themes from PBOS, focusing on localization, community development, and regional collaboration. While he was at the conference Dave had a couple of Talanoa and highlights how infrastructure procurement is changing with local empowerment. This episode features Talanoa with Titi Tutuvanu-Schwalger who is the Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles Advisor to the Pacific Islands Forum Secretary and with Jay Bartlett CEO of Hatanga Construction.

Keywords

Pacific infrastructure, localization, community development, regional collaboration, Pacific Islands, infrastructure projects, local businesses, community impact

Key  topics

Localization in infrastructure projects

Regional collaboration and partnership

Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles

Sound bites

"Increasing localization in the region"

"Contributing to community outcomes"

"Great to see this initiative growing"

Chapters

00:00 Podcast Introduction

03:40 Introduction to the Pacific Infrastructure Business Opportunities Seminar

06:56 Introduction to Titi

08:23 Understanding the Role of Titi in Pacific Infrastructure

10:25 Exploring the Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles

12:50 Local Content and Its Importance in Infrastructure Projects

14:15 Building Relationships for Effective Localization

15:50 Challenges and Opportunities in the Pacific Infrastructure Sector

21:45 Jay Bartlett from Hatanga Construction

35:35 Conclusion and the week ahead

Resources

Pacific Infrastructure Conference 2026 - https://example.com/pacific-infrastructure-2023

Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles - Pacific Quality Infrastructure Principles.pdf

Hatanga Construction - Hatanga - Solomon Islands Construction & Infrastructure

By Group – https://www.bygroup.com.au

Summary

In this engaging interview, the team from Greenhouse Studio in Suva, Fiji, share their journey, creative process, and insights into the Pacific's vibrant creative economy. Discover how they craft meaningful work that inspires change and celebrates Pacific culture. They have also designed a new look for Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod which Dave and Glen are pleased to launch!

Keywords

Greenhouse Studio, Pacific Creative Economy, Fiji, Design, Branding, Cultural Identity, Pacific Art, Creative Industry, Pacific Stories, Visual Identity

Key Topics

• Greenhouse Studio's origin and growth over 12 years
• The studio's focus on meaningful, community-driven work
• Design process and cultural considerations in branding
• The studio's services: from branding to multimedia production
• The future of the Pacific creative economy and opportunities for growth
• Pacific Cultural Design Principles

Guest  Names

Maria Rona Luna Pastorizo Sekiguchi

Elenoa Sokovata

Tomasi Kororua

Sound Bites

"We wanted our work to be meaningful"

"The logo reflects Pacific culture subtly"

"We are the ones to make things happen"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod

09:25 Introduction to the Greenhouse Studio

13:40 The Journey of Greenhouse Studio

17:52 Creative Process and Collaboration

22:16 Designing the Visual Identity for Tupalangi

26:30 Future of the Creative Economy in Fiji

30:58 The Week Ahead at PBOS

Resources

Greenhouse Studio Website - https://greenhouse.studio/.   

Creative Economy Insights - https://creativenz.govt.nz/about-creative-nz/corporate-documents/pacific-arts-strategy-2023-2028

Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod - [email protected]

Summary

This episode features Glen and Dave discussing infrastructure development in the Pacific, focusing on recent initiatives, challenges, and upcoming conferences with Jenny Chu from the Asian Development Bank. They explore the evolving procurement culture in the region, procurement policies, and opportunities. Discover how ADB supports local businesses, enhances procurement processes, and fosters regional collaboration to improve community outcomes.

Keywords

Pacific infrastructure, procurement, Asian Development Bank, Jenny, Nandi Conference, development challenges, regional collaboration

Guest  name

Jenny Chu (Asian Development Bank)

Titles

How the ADB is Shaping Pacific Development in 2024

ADB's role in Pacific infrastructure

Procurement policy and innovation

Regional collaboration and capacity building

Sound bites

"Jenny's implacable and well considered."

"Jenny is very open and a great first contact."

"Evolving procurement policies in the region."

Chapters

00:00 Podcast Introduction

10:02 Jenny's Role and Background in ADB

12:44 Understanding Procurement Policy

15:16 Insights from the Roadshow in Australia and New Zealand

18:07 Engagement with the Business Community

20:50 Advice for Businesses in the Infrastructure Sector

23:18 Upcoming Pacific Infrastructure Business Opportunity Seminars

27:27 Podcast outro

Resources

Asian Development Bank (ADB) - https://www.adb.org

Pacific Infrastructure Business Opportunities Seminar (PBOS) - https://https://www.adb.org/news/events/pacific-infrastructure-business-opportunities-seminar-2026

Two Palagi email - [email protected]

Summary

Along with their normal discussion about business activity in the Pacific this week Dave talks about the time he spent on Atiu Island. The main feature in this episode is that, while Dave was at Atiu, Glen sat down with Sarah Leo who leads Auckland Council’s engagement with Auckland’s Pacific economy. Sarah shares her journey, the importance of Pacific businesses in Auckland's economy, and the impactful work of quantifying and supporting the Pacific economy through data, partnerships, and leadership development.

Key  topics

Quantifying the Pacific economy in Auckland

The impact of Pacific-owned businesses on the local economy

Leadership development and economic growth strategies for Pacific communities

Guest  name

Sarah Leo

 Sound bites

"By 2043, one in five workers in Auckland will be of Pacific descent."

"Our growth is in Pacific businesses, especially in creative sectors."

"I love the work I do and feel privileged to contribute."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Talanoa 

09:55 Economic Development and the Role of Pacific Businesses

15:03 Quantifying the Pacific Economy: Insights and Data

19:50 Partnerships and Collaborative Initiatives for Growth

24:59 Cultural Influence and Creative Exports

30:12 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

37:00 Pacific Activity this week

Resources

Teu Le Va Website - 

https://aucklandeconomicdevelopment.com/economy-and-insights/research-and-reports/Teu-Le-Va-Pacific-Work-Programme

Business Trust - https://pacificbusiness.co.nz

Auckland Council Economic Development - https://aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Summary

Join Glen and Dave as they explore the vibrant Pacific art scene, recent cultural events, and regional developments in infrastructure, energy, and connectivity. This episode highlights the power of storytelling through film, art, and community engagement, emphasizing resilience and innovation in the Pacific region.

Keywords

Pacific art, regional development, Pacific connectivity, Pacific resilience, Pacific culture, Pacific energy, Pacific film, Pacific community

Key  topics

Pacific art and film: Sergeant Hane and its cultural impact

The role of art fairs and exhibitions in regional identity

Pacific resilience through renewable energy projects

Connectivity solutions like Starlink in remote Pacific communities

Challenges and opportunities in Pacific labor schemes and welfare

Recent regional events: Anzac Day and diplomatic engagements

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Episode

01:00 Personal Updates and Community Engagement

03:03 Commemoration of Anzac Day and Its Significance

05:28 Exploring Pacific Cinema: The Story of Sergeant Hane

07:29 Aotearoa Art Fair: Celebrating Pacific Art

09:51 Exhibitions and Artistic Connections in Rarotonga

11:46 Future Discussions on Creative Development

13:53 Fashion and Cultural Events in the Pacific

15:28 Current Issues: Fuel Crisis in the Pacific

19:12 Pacific Leaders' Individual Responses to Energy Crisis

20:29 Renewable Energy Opportunities in the Pacific

21:39 Geothermal Energy Potential in Tonga

23:04 Starlink Connectivity and Resilience in the Pacific

24:41 Labour Mobility Challenges and Worker Rights

29:37 Community Impact of Tragedies on Migrant Workers

31:18 Celebrating Local Distilleries and Economic Growth

Resources

Sergeant Hane Film - https://www.sergeanthane.co.nz

Aotearoa Art Fair - https://aotearoaartexpo.co.nz

Lisa Reihana's Artworks - https://www.bergmangallery.co.nz/artists/lisa-reihana

Fiji Fashion Week - https://fijifashionweek.com

Creative New Zealand - https://creativenz.govt.nz

Pacific Renewable Energy Conference - https://energyregion.org

Cook Islands Distillery - https://cookislandsdistillery.com

Blue Turtle Gin - https://cookislandsdistillery.com/blue-turtle-gin

Fiji Distillery Company - https://fijidistillery.com

 Summary

In this episode Two Palagi have an nsightful interview, Jennifer Boggiss shares the inspiring story of Heilala Vanilla, a premium vanilla brand originating from Tonga that has gained international recognition. Discover how the business combines community engagement, authentic storytelling, and innovative branding to disrupt the vanilla industry and promote Pacific excellence.

 Keywords

Pacific business, Tonga vanilla, brand storytelling, community impact, global markets, vanilla industry, Pacific branding, entrepreneurship, sustainable development, food innovation

 Key  topics

Origin story of Heilala Vanilla in Tonga

Community and sustainability initiatives

Branding and marketing strategies for premium products

Impact of Pacific culture on global branding

Challenges and opportunities in Pacific agricultural exports

Titles

From Tonga to the World: The Heilala Vanilla Success Story

How Pacific Roots Disrupt the Global Vanilla Market

Chapters

Introduction to Heilala Vanilla and Its Origins

The Journey of Heilala Vanilla

Marketing and Branding Strategies

The Impact of COVID-19 on Business

Community Engagement and Business Success

Future Vision and Growth Opportunities

Cultural Insights and Business Practices

 Resources

Heilala Vanilla Website - https://heilalavanilla.co.nz

While the edited version of the talanoa with Sristhi Narayan, Chief Marketing Officer at Tourism Fiji, is included in the regular weekly Podcast Two Palagi in a Pisinisi Pod felt that the extended interview should also be published this week. So here is the full interview with Sristhi.

Summary

In this episode, Glen and David interview Sristhi Narayan, Chief Marketing Officer at Tourism Fiji, to explore insights into Fiji's tourism industry, and lessons learned from her tenure. They also discuss recent developments in Pacific sports and digital connectivity.

Keywords

Tourism Fiji, marketing strategies, Pacific sports, digital connectivity, Fiji tourism, Pacific region, sports franchise, Super Rugby, Fiji economy, tourism marketing

Key  topics

Tourism Fiji's marketing strategies

Impact of digital connectivity on Pacific region

Challenges faced by Pacific sports franchises

Future of Fiji's tourism industry

Regional digital infrastructure developments

Titles

Unlocking Fiji's Tourism Potential: Insights from Sristhi Narayan

Pacific Sports and Digital Connectivity: Challenges and Opportunities

 Resources

Tourism Fiji Official Website - https://www.fiji.travel/

Super Rugby Pacific - https://super.rugby/competitions/super-rugby-pacific

Pacific Island Telecommunications Conference - https://www.pacifictelecomconference.com/

Digital Connectivity Initiatives in the Pacific - https://www.example.com/digital-pacific