SBH Women in Business Spotlight: Jessie Televave owner of Jessohn’s Fashion and Design
In the heart of Savai’i, Jessie John has built a thriving local sewing business from traditional puletasi to modern outfits, Jessie’s sewing shop has earned a reputation for its attention to creativity, and excellent customer service.
Over the past five years, she has been a part of the Samoa Business Hub (SBH) family, benefiting from a range of business development programs. Through SBH’s business training workshops, she strengthened her skills in financial management, marketing, and customer service
In addition to training, Jessie accessed financial support through SBH’s Business Loan Guarantee Scheme in partnership with Samoa Commercial Bank Ltd, which allowed her to invest in new sewing equipment, increase production capacity, and take on more clients
Jessie’s story is an inspiring example of how determination, combined with the right support, can transform small businesses into sustainable ventures. As she continues to grow, SBH remains committed to providing guidance and resources to ensure her success
SBH Women in Business Spotlight: GRACE MALAMA MASELUSI – farmer from Vaovai Falealili
When Grace Malama and her husband first started farming in Vaovai, Falealili, they saw an opportunity to utilize their land for something meaningful. It was 2021, right at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when travel restrictions and the halt of bus services made it difficult for people to access fresh vegies. During this time, demand for their taro, bananas, yams, and vegetables surged as people sought out healthy, locally grown produce
Seeing the growing demand, Grace and her husband took another step forward, setting up a small market stall in front of their house. What began as a necessity soon turned into a full-scale business, allowing them to expand their farm, which now covers over 4 acres
As an active member of Falealili & Siumu’s Business Cohort, Grace has taken part in numerous business training programs, strengthening her skills in financial management, marketing, and business growth. She has also accessed financing through SBH’s Green Business Support Credit under our Microfinance, enabling her to further develop sustainable farming practices
Today, Grace’s Farm is a well-established supplier of fresh produce in her community, playing a vital role in Samoa’s agricultural sector. Her journey is a testament to resilience, innovation and the power of small businesses in driving local food security. Grace’s story continues to inspire other women to pursue their own entrepreneurial dreams and turn challenges into opportunities Happy International Women’s Day Grace and all the women entrepreneurs of Falealili & Siumu Cohort
SBH Women in Business Spotlight: Galumalemana Ruta Fesola’i– farmer from Faleasiu Uta
For more than 20 years, Ruta has been a committed entrepreneur, growing a successful mixed farming business with her husband. What began in 2001 as a small-scale venture has now expanded into a thriving family-operated farm covering eight acres of land
In the early years, Ruta and her husband hired casual workers to help manage their farm. However, as the business grew, their children stepped in to support daily operations. Today, the business is run by Ruta and her two children, ensuring that their family legacy continues
Ruta’s farm produces a variety of crops, including vegetables, koko (cocoa), niu (coconuts), and fruit trees. They have a roadside stall at Faleasiu and also serve as a supplier to market stalls in other villages and the Fugalei Market
Since 2018, Samoa Business Hub (SBH) has played a key role in supporting Ruta’s journey. Through various training programs, including customer service and Business Nurturing Program, she has gained valuable skills to strengthen her business. Additionally, SBH provided financial support through our Green Business Support Credit/Microfinance, enabling Ruta to further develop her farm
As a woman in agriculture, Ruta is breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her success highlights the increasing role of women in farming, demonstrating that “women can thrive as agricultural entrepreneurs”, contribute significantly to the economy, and inspire others to follow in their footsteps
Beyond her success as an entrepreneur, Galumalemana is also a leader within her community. She serves as the President of the Business Cohort of Faleasiu and Aleisa, advocating for and supporting other women in business. Her commitment to empowering others make her a true inspiration
SBH Women in Business Spotlight: Eufirate Amituanai – co-owner of Euphrates Organic Farm Fresh & Tropical Plants
For over five years, Eufirate and Tapulolo’u Siuli of Euphrates Organic Farm Fresh and Tropical Plants, have been a part of the Samoa Business Hub- Apia East Business Cohort. From humble beginnings, she worked tirelessly to develop her farm alongside her husband, overcoming major challenges, including the devastation caused by Cyclones Gita and Evans. Despite these setbacks, she and her team rebuilt with determination, utilizing agricultural assistance, market access, and business support to sustain and grow their venture
With SBH’s support, Eufirate secured financial assistance from Samoa Commercial Bank Ltd through our Business Loan Guarantee Scheme, allowing her to expand Euphrates Organic Farm Fresh & Tropical Plants. Today, her business supplies fresh produce and tropical plants to local markets, special events and several major retailers
Eufirate’s story is an example of the strength and determination of women in business, proving that success is possible even in the face of adversity
SBH Women in Business Spotlight: PALEMA POLIKO of Mulifanua
When Palema and her husband purchased their vessel in 2022, they knew they were embarking on a challenging but rewarding journey. Today, their business is a true family affair, employing three relatives and sustaining their livelihood. While her husband focuses on crew management and vessel maintenance, Palema is at the helm, overseeing every aspect of operations from marketing to managing finances and sales
Palema’s journey has been strengthened by her involvement with SBH. As part of the Aiga i le Tai,Falelatai and Samatau business Cohort she has participated in multiple training programs, enhancing her business skills, and has also accessed financial support through SBH’s Green Business Support Credit/Microfinance initiative
A journey to inspire other women to venture boldly into industries where they have been historically underrepresented
SBH Women in Business Spotlight: TASILETA SOLOMONA TALOPAU-Motaa
Tasileta Solomona Talopau from Moataa, a poultry and pig farmer who has made significant strides in her business over the years. As a member of the SBH Apia East Business Cohort, Tasileta has had the opportunity to participate in various business training programs, including Customer Service and the Business Nurturing Program, which have helped her strengthen her skills and grow her farm
Tasileta graduated from the Small Business Operations II course in 2024 thanks to the support of the UNDP in Samoa, Cook Islands, Tokelau & Niue – Market for Change project.
Tasileta’s success story is further amplified by her access to financial support through our Business Loan Guarantee Scheme (BLGS) with Samoa Commercial Bank, which has enabled her to expand her operations. Tasileta continues to inspire other women entrepreneurs in her community and SBH is incredibly proud to be a part of her journey
