Testimonials
"Developing a new organisation is definitely not a road I’ve travelled before and the thought and reality of not knowing what needed to be done, how, when and why, was incredibly daunting and I had no idea where to begin, although we had already secured our Charitable Trust and governing board. After identifying where we were at and what was critical going forward, we were thrilled to have been put in touch with PEP to help with our much needed strategy thinking and process.
Understanding the complexity of the work that we do and the current financial climate, made a big difference in terms of turning the problem into currency. I loved the PEP approach which was always outside of the box – yet not unachievable. Also understanding that we were a for Pacific by Pacific organisation went a long way to also making a difference for me.
I found PEP very approachable, they just ‘get it’, nothing seemed to be a barrier or in the too hard basket, their attitude was always “ it’s possible”. I was surprised and thrilled with the extras that always seem to be included, for example, not just a thought or possibility, but being provided with names, contacts and/or links was impressive! I felt really well supported and therefore safe to do the whole ‘dump! – please make sense of all this for me and help me work out the next steps!’"
Sylvia Yandall
Pasifika Services Manager
HELP Auckland - Poutű Pasifika
"We knew we needed help, but we didn’t know where to start or who to reach out to. As Māori and Islanders, we know support is out there, but sometimes it’s hard to know the right door to knock on. Now we do! From the beginning, we felt comfortable — it wasn’t overwhelming at all. They gave us a few options, and when we read your profile, we said, “This sounds like us.” The others seemed too formal, like suit-and-tie people — not our vibe. We needed someone we could really open up to. You were exactly that — warm, down-to-earth, and easy to talk to."
Erepana and Geraldine Waitai
Owners
Moerewa Takeaways / Auntie G Ice Cream Van
"When we first started this consultation, we were completely in the dark. We had passion and ambition for our brand, but no real structure or direction. And that made it incredibly hard to move forward with confidence.
We launched our clothing brand around five years ago with a clear vision of where we wanted to be, but we struggled to translate that vision into a concrete plan. It became a major roadblock for us. We knew the potential was there, but we just didn’t know how to unlock it.
That’s why we feel so lucky to have crossed paths with Sui and Salā. They’ve helped us turn a vague dream into a tangible, actionable plan. Through our sessions, we were able to dig deeper into the meaning behind our brand. Uncovering values, ideas, and insights we hadn’t considered before. With their guidance, we defined our target market and developed a much clearer roadmap for how to reach them.
Thanks to PEP, we now have a stronger foundation for the brand and looking forward to making a solid strategy to build on. More than anything, we’ve gained the confidence to take action and pursue growth, knowing we’re no longer just guessing our way forward.
Working with PEP has genuinely been one of the best decisions we’ve made for the brand. Without their support, we’d still be feeling stuck. Now, we’re energized and excited for what’s ahead. We’d highly recommend them to anyone feeling stuck or unsure about their next step with their business."
Isara Peau
Founder
The Loyal Few Worldwide Goods
"I want to say thank you again for all your help and hard work in the last month. I am beyond grateful for the tools you have given me to be able to pursue my desire for the business to grow. For the first time since we started Tribute, we finally have clarity on our vision and how to achieve our goal. Thank you so much for pointing us in the right direction."
LJ Tanielu
Founder
Tribute Custom Arts
"PEP helped me gather my scattered ideas about my business and has created a business canvas and marketing strategy and now I understand the steps to take with growing my business.
I would highly recommend PEP to anyone who has ideas for business but needs assistance in how to grow their business."
Neo Caughtry
Founder
Sinai Studios
"I was so overwhelmed with having to run the business and manage the admin of it with little to no guidance or any foundation knowledge on how to have a system in place to have a smooth running of the business. In a nutshell I can say everything was in chaos.
PEP helped me identify where the problems were and guided me to achieving these solutions on instilling knowledge on having a proper payroll system in place as this was one of the major things I was lacking.
I can now confidently enter the payroll and re-check it before sending it to my accountant.
PEP will work above and beyond just to achieve the end result. Best decision I have ever made for my business. 200% recommend."
Bulou Waqanivalu
Owner
Warship 3.33 Cleaning Services
"PEP are experts in their field. While they are a business enterprise, they have good hearts to support Pasifika organisations and support them and our families and community thrive. Being Pasifika and being grounded in Pasifika values is really important and this is reflected in the way that they engage and work. They are willing to listen and to have a good understanding of the organisation.
In the short time that I have worked with them, I have developed trust and friendship with both Sala and Sui and we are willing and committed to explore other avenues beyond our current work which can add value to our Pasifika families and community.
Their international exposure and many years of experience in working in their field of expertise and with our Pasifika community has positioned them well to provide Pasifika entities with support that is cultural contextualised, relevant and practical, also aspirational yet realistic. I recommend them highly to any Pasifika entity needing support in Strategic planning, Governance, leadership."
Sunlou Liuvaie
Chair
Papaioea Pasifika Community Trust
"We were connected with PEP through Lana at Pacific Business Trust, and as a small husband-and-wife-run business, we are incredibly grateful for the time and support we received.
Our sessions with PEP were thoughtful and insightful. They asked questions we hadn’t even considered, which challenged us to reflect more deeply on our business journey and direction.
At a time when we were uncertain about where our business was heading, Sala and Sui provided clarity, patience, and wisdom. Their extensive experience, especially as a husband-and-wife business team themselves, made their advice all the more relevant and impactful. They generously shared their own stories, offered practical guidance, and uplifted us with their encouragement.
What meant the most to us was the safe, open, and understanding space they created during each talanoa. We felt truly seen, heard, and supported—able to bring our whole selves to the table and speak honestly about both the triumphs and challenges we’ve faced.
Fa’afetai tele lava to the PEP team. We are truly thankful for this connection and look forward to staying connected in the future."
Tumama Tu'ulua and Kalameli Tu'ulua
Directors
Kept Solutions
"Working with Pacific Enterprise People has been an absolute pleasure. From the very beginning, the team was incredibly kind, understanding, and truly took the time to listen to my vision. Their commitment to helping me bring that vision to life exceeded my expectations. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the collaborative process and genuinely appreciate their dedication and support. I look forward to continuing our work together in the future and highly recommend them to anyone seeking a team that values both creativity and client care."
Geppina Carafa
Director
Mou'i Lelei Hula Fitness
"Managing a business startup was a good testing ground but it came with a cost. For my case, I started my business without doing any business planning, financial management, or day-to-day business operations. I had no formal business training or practical exposure to business environments. I lacked familiarity with business-related processes, terminology, and decision-making.
PEP helped me set clear, actionable goals and regularly review and adjust my strategy as market conditions change. They also assisted to tailor and develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines my vision, mission, objectives, and the steps needed to achieve them. Their solution has brought massive impacts in; Increased efficiency and Productivity, Cost savings, enhanced my decision making, clear direction and alignment. I hardly say this, but I have never felt so important and special working with PEP. I was blessed to have come across them and highly recommend their services as they have such an amazing God sent team!"
Paula Suguturaga
Director
Daveta Food Ltd
"I wanted my business to provide for my family, but also to make the idea of running a business feel possible for anyone else with a dream. I wanted to understand how to do business well and how to grow it. I came in with an open mind because I’ve always had the dream of owning a business—but I didn’t really have a plan. I’d done a previous course where we talked about business planning, but it didn’t quite land, and I couldn’t translate that into something practical or tangible for me.
I wanted to explore what scaling could look like for ‘Ei Moana. I also wanted to show my sons the inheritance they have—from both me and their father—that if they put God first and give it their all, there’s nothing they can’t achieve. While money has always been a consideration, I never wanted to be a business owner with a terrible attitude. I wanted to make sure the foundations were solid, built on good intentions and strategic direction. I needed a space to do that properly.
Your combined expertise has been incredibly valuable. There are things you both share, but also strengths that are unique to each of you, and being able to draw on both has been a huge benefit.
Salā, your ability to really listen and read between the lines is a gift. You asked the right questions, but not because they were pre-prepared—you listened deeply to what I was saying, and the questions naturally flowed from that. That skill alone brought clarity. ‘Ei Moana has truly benefited from the strengths and support you both bring. I’m really grateful.
If you had seen me in a past meeting with my business mentor, I was talking about strategic plans and thinking, “I can’t tell him I don’t actually have one!” But now? I’d love to go back and say, “Here’s my strategic plan.”
Honestly, it’s one of the things I sometimes brag about with my family: “I have a strategic plan for my business!”
The process you took me through helped me solidify my ideas. I’m someone who needs to see, touch, and feel things, and you made that possible. That helped me embed the ideas properly. It’s no longer just black words on paper—my customer persona is always front and centre now, reminding me why I do what I do with ‘Ei Moana."
Repeka George-Koteka
Executive Director
'Ei Moana Consultants
Working with PEP has been an absolute blessing for Falelalaga. From the very first meeting with Salā, I knew we were in safe and capable hands.
Sala came not only with her professional expertise, but with genuine care, humility, and ears ready to truly listen to my story. At the time, my thoughts and dreams for Falelalaga were all over the place, but Salā gently and skillfully helped me give language and structure to
everything in my heart and mind.
What made the journey even more powerful was the addition of Sui Simon. His expertise, insight, and strategic clarity—combined with Salā’s ability to connect and capture the deeper cultural and visionary layers—made them an exceptional team. Together, they didn’t just help build our organisational strategy and structure, they mentored me
through it. I was learning not only about the business of running a kaupapa-based organisation, but about leadership, storytelling, and how to boldly step into my vision.
Salā once said to me, “Talk loudly about your vision to people when you're in spaces with impactful people.” That was the push and
encouragement I needed—and I did just that. Wow! Magic truly happens. Doors opened. I found not only great mentors, but trusted friends.
PEP’s professionalism, deep cultural intelligence, and their heart-centred approach have been instrumental in helping Falelalaga grow with integrity and strength. I’m incredibly grateful to both Salā and
Sui for their support, belief, and commitment. Thank you for walking alongside us.
Fa'afetai tele
Saoatulagi-ole-Tagaloa Penina Ifopo
CEO, Falelalaga Cultural and Education Centre
"IMPACTFUL AND HIGHLY MOTIVATED!
I felt nervous but excited at the same time, knowing I was about to receive expert / professional support to help with the “inexistence” of my business. Every session led by Suitauloa Simon and Salā Marie became clearer, opening my eyes to the reality of what I was missing.
I have struggled to understand how to approach the marketing and sales area of my business, which restricted me from expanding my reach, but since having these sessions, I am excited about stepping into the marketing area with the new strategy plan that has been created for me by PEP.
Understanding “The What” will help develop “The How”. Understanding my transferrable skills and what is in my kete of knowledge and learnings is what I draw from when working with my clients. Creating key personas that support my approach has been a revelation for me, it is not about me but the person I am giving my service to!! PEP was able to draw out the best of who I am and celebrate the capabilities that enhance my business to the fullest.
I am excited to step into the implementation phase of my business journey and activate what I have achieved through PEP.
Fa’afetai tele lava Suitauloa Simon and Salā Marie it has truly been an honour coming under your leadership and direction for my business!"
Misa Janet Ta'afili Tuitama
Master Practitioner of Indigenous Wellbeing
Niu Perspective
"I think we definitely picked the right people. Thank God we have this team! I was just imagining what it would have been like if we had gone with someone else's approach. The fact that you understand churches and how they work has been a huge advantage for us. You and your team have made everything so much easier. We don't have to constantly explain what we want. You listen to us, and you understand exactly what we're talking about. That's been the real beauty of this whole experience. I thought this consultation was going to be very difficult, but I'm incredibly pleased with how smoothly everything has gone. We're so thankful for your time and everything you've put in place for us."
Rev. Dr. Featunai Liuaana
Senior Minister
EFKS Church Sandringham
"Working with PEP really helped us level up. They gave us the tools to put structure around our business, clarity around our pricing, and confidence in the direction we’re heading. What started as a creative side hustle is now growing into a proper premium brand with systems, strategy, and real momentum.
Salā and Suitauloa have been so instrumental in our journey as business owners, broadening our eyes to the endless possibilities that can help our business thrive. Our shared love for our Christian Faith have made this experience so meaningful and fulfilling. We are forever grateful.
We’ve got a much stronger handle on the business side of things now, and we’re excited for what’s ahead.
Ia alofa Le Atua faamanuia pea ia te oulua, foa’i le tomai auā le lua feagai ai ma lenei galuega matagofie”
Edmund & Lana
Co-founders
Eki's Art
"PEP’s mentoring gave me the clarity and courage to reassess where I was investing my energy, and why. It helped me realign my priorities without guilt, and confidently step into the spaces where I can make the greatest impact. The process wasn’t just professional—it was transformational."
Leao Tildsley
Founder
Saves9
“This website for me now is just so awesome because it forced me to market ourselves in a real professional way – in a way that consolidates our information and who we are. It consolidates our story.”
Elisapeta Pedro
Centre Manager
Fetu Fa Tokelau Akoga Kamata /
Peninsula Stars Early Childhood Centre
“I’m 68 years old. I think computer literacy is important for me as the manager, and I also do the administration. I have a fair idea of what to do, but it’s just for my job. So, this was a challenge. But PEP really empowered me and my team to manage our online presence.”
Loviana Tufulele
Centre Manager
Akoteu Falemaama Early Childhood Centre
“I wanted to encourage my daughter to turn her passion into a business, and she has done just that, selling her handmade recycled scrunchies at our local market. I’m so grateful to PEP for helping us step beyond the market and into a nationwide audience through our ecommerce website. The PEP team has introduced us to so many tools that put the power in our hands. It is so exciting to see my daughter pick up and run with it.”
Eirenei Valaau-Ah Kuoi
Business Partner
Freddie J
"I give everything from the heart for my clients, but new clients didn't know it until PEP helped me to tell my brand story on my website. They provided a safe space for me to talk about sensitive experiences, and were understanding and skilful in the way that they articulated back to me what I represent. The pages of my website went from just a minimum brochure to an extension of what I believe and how this comes through in our clients' experience. They also gently challenged me to put more of myself out there in the way I communicate. God bless you both and I pray that you continue to do what you are doing because it works and it helps people like myself."
Lateline Nofo'akifolau
Managing Director
Jatem Memorials & Headstones
“PEP didn’t just create a website for me, but showed me how to use and manage it myself, so I have total control over my brand, my services and how I get paid. This has really laid the foundation for my business to grow and my family to prosper. Thanks PEP!”
Peter Talamaivao
Business Owner
This Guy Grounds Maintenance
"Thank you Marie for a well structured strategic planning day with our team. The team really appreciated your professionalism, expert insights and experience. The planning and review process was engaging and simple. The final strategic plan was very well written and incorporated our Pasifika values clearly. The resulting strategy document was excellent. Atawai wolo ye manake
(Thank you very much in the Pukapuka language)."
Karen Daniels
Board Chair
Failoa Famili Trust
"The support, guidance, and empowerment you provided during the creation and launch of our website were invaluable. I am deeply grateful for your patience and dedication. Your help and encouragement were instrumental in achieving this milestone. Thank you PEP team!"
Faamatuainu Faamalua Tipi
Director Manager
Leataata Wellbeing and Education Hub
"I had a substantial project that required a high level of clarity and conciseness. I was fortunate to have been referred to PEP, who promptly delivered a project that enabled me to present and collaborate with our board to determine the next steps for our structural merge. Their presentation was clear and to the point, significantly aiding in charting the path forward for our board of trustees."
Eirenei Vailaau Ah-Kuoi
Chief Executive
Atamu
"The guidance, advice and support I received from Salā Marie's business mentorship from Business Mentors New Zealand were both professionally valuable and deeply personal. It came at a critical juncture in my career when I needed it the most. What resonated with me was Salā's empathetic and caring approach. I was able to add practical tools to my toolbox/kete to use in challenging times. Despite her demanding schedule, she met with me online and in person. Her support reassured me and rekindled my passion for my business and future goals. I will always be profoundly grateful for our meaningful connection."
Pauline Fotu-Moala
Managing Director
Ikuna Taste
"I'm so excited about the incredible value I got from PEP! They not only created the perfect design I wanted but also gave me access to a ton of awesome e-commerce features that will really help me sell my artwork online. And to top it off, my website was ready just in time for Mother's Day! Plus, the team even shared some really valuable business tips with me to help boost sales and marketing for my brand. Super blessed to have both Simon and Marie, such a beautiful energy and vibes with every session. Truly grateful for their support and help - they are amazing."
Mele Siniva Williams
Managing Director
Siniva Williams Photography
“I want to express my heartfelt thanks for your crucial role in bringing my website online. Your process and support was helpful and super easy. I enjoyed your encouragement a lot. Your prompt, timely and effective response in bringing the site online has been instrumental in ensuring that our clients can easily find us."
Christine Nurninen
Director, Manava Partners
“I had the privilege of working with PEP in developing a business strategy for my company. To my satisfaction, PEP not only fulfilled its promise but also helped me establish an unrealised new brand that was closely tied to my personal story as the founder. PEP helped instil a new passion for my company and has given me clear direction. I highly recommend PEP for its ability to unlock my company's potential. I am delighted with the level of service I received and will be using their services again."
Kevin Fuavao, Founder, Manu Golf Apparel
“PEP’s creative and strategic expertise helped us to see our brand in a whole new light, and opened up strategic new partnership channels and pathways beyond what we had imagined.”
Vikki Clark, Director, ZOL Sunglasses
It was a great joy to have you and loved the way PEP facilitated [our workshops]. You have a powerful leadership story that resonated with me and with others.
Workshop Client
I like your approach. It's non-confrontational. You didn't come in telling us what to do, you sought the answers that were within us. As a person being assessed, that's what I appreciated the most.
Kura-Metua Elikana, Centre Manager
You hear us. You listen and understand where we are coming from as an organisation. I feel like what we say here is actually important.
Tupuka Tikinau, Trustee
Pukapuka Preschool
It has been an absolute pleasure working together with PEP - Marie and Simon Young on this Governance needs pilot project.
Both Marie and Simon provided valuable advice and guidance during the time when we were scoping together on what our Governance needed and wanted support with. Then when it came to the time of implementing what we had spoken about both Marie and Simon have been wonderful support in making it happen.
I love that we share the same heart - a heart for God, for our children, families and community and a passion to empower our people (Samoan/Pasifika) to know and be the best that we can be. Thank you both for your serving hearts and I pray for abundant blessings upon you both and your work.
Faafetai tele lava mo lenei fesoasoani taua ma ia faamanuia le Atua ia oulua i mea uma lua te fai.
Alovale Faaiuaso,
Centre Manager, Lupesina Aoga Amata
Thank you very much for the time and effort you have put into working alongside Lupesina Aoga Amata. The structuring of the governance manual and protocols as well as setting up the website, google suite, origins video and storypark training is deeply appreciated.
The work you have done is a great step forward for Lupesina to streamline our governance communication and workflow.
Thank you for your advice and the positive impact your work will have on the future of Lupesina. Faafetai tele lava.
Pati Faaiuaso,
Board Chair, Lupesina Aoga Amata
We are very lucky to have chosen Pacific Enterprise People where our enriching conversations, our vision and passion are united as one. Thank you for your smiles, your laughter, your love and most of all your support in achieving what we set out to achieve in our plan. I feel very blessed. Meitaki Poria.
Temaria Tengange
Centre Manager, Akaiti Mangarongaro
I enjoyed getting more clarity, I enjoyed being clear on directions ahead. There is enormous value in just being able to sit down and talk. Good to have Marie facilitate because she went straight to identifying key priorities and that’s what we needed. Excellent!
Graham Edwards
Board Member, Glenavon Community Hub
I was so fortunate to be referred to Marie by one of one of my long-standing loyal customers and very good friend. I've found Marie to be a valuable extended member of our team. As a Business Mentor, she's encouraging and creates a safe space to host a talanoa (conversations). Marie builds rapport very easily, which enables me to trust her, especially when navigating topics that takes courage. She also provides strategic solutions and ideas that perhaps we haven't explored yet. I would definitely recommend her as a Business Mentor and her company.
Sylvie Salanoa
Managing Director, Mailelani Samoa Skincare
I really love having someone outside to facilitate so we can just sit back, relax, just be and share together, and see the value, the difference and the input that each person has as an essential part of the big picture. The sense of team (togetherness) has been strengthened. I really want others to come and experience this.
Marjorie Blaiklock
Secretary, Glenavon Community Hub
I really enjoyed the open communications, we generally don’t have time to do this and I feel like it’s given me more spark to work with some amazing people in the world.
Michael Mishriki
Chairman, Glenavon Community Hub
You’re putting ideas in my head that I don’t really think about day-to-day in terms of the business.
You’re bringing up improvements that we should be doing, but haven’t been doing.
I felt comfortable to share my ideas, and that I could trust you and you wouldn’t try to talk me
into anything I don’t want to do.
Ekueni Ropati
Director, PBI Inspections Co Ltd
Marie and the team at PEP were extremely helpful with getting me and my business back on our feet. She provided support that was second to none, always willing to go the extra mile to assist with whatever it was that I needed and always provided provision with her advice. With PEP, they provided more than just a service. They were patient, comfortable to talk to and made a genuine connection/effort to fully understand the purpose of my business and vision/goals.
Marie's ability to create a safe space encouraged me to share my story without hesitation. As a young Pacific woman who is an aspiring entrepreneur it’s so important to have representation of our people in this field and I am thankful to Marie for being that representative for me.
Without a doubt, I would highly recommend choosing Marie and her team at PEP.
Thank you so much!
Tiare Rose Atirai
Founder, Tiare Rose Cosmetics
Even though logistics has been in my family for generations, starting up my own business was exciting and daunting. But having PEP’s level of care and attention to what I needed was a breath of fresh air.
The continuous strategic and tactical priorities were invaluable from Marie and her team. This gave me confidence to take an opportunity that I almost missed.
I am so glad I chose this company to help me get my business off the ground.
Khatik Patel
Managing Director DNP Logistics
PEP was pivotal to my start up. I was already running a business, but I needed fresh ideas, strategy and someone who could challenge me to think even bigger.
When I felt stuck, Marie helped bring the momentum, belief, and preparation to put me in good stead and even prepared me for a funding pitch.
A valuable business mentor to call on.
Imelda Morgan
Director, Two Sparrows
I engaged PEP's services for six months for team leadership and professional development. We lost our way a bit and I needed someone to come in and help us find our "why" again.
After group workshops and one-on-one sessions with Marie I started to see incredible personal and professional development changes with my team and a huge positive change to our team culture. I am on cloud 9 and I do not recognise my team. I am so blessed to know Marie and to be a client of hers.
She's a trusted advisor and a go to mentor for myself as well.
Asinate Akolo | Founder
Poimaino Homebased Childcare
I found PEP's services to be timely for where I was in life. I am about to partially retire from full time work, and I needed someone who could basically summarise the key milestones of my life and help me to see a new narrative that wasn't in my consciousness before. This will prepare me well for my next season, where my priority is to share my story with others.
As a result, I have a new blog and new website, and a new lease of life with so much to look forward to.
Salome Mitchell
Community Chaplain / Social Worker
I was very picky when it came to finding and choosing the right Business Consultant to help strategise where my business could go to the next level. After interviewing and speaking to 12 different business consultants. I chose Pacific Enterprise People (PEP).
Marie is a beautiful kind soul who I believe genuinely wants to see her clients succeed. I really enjoy working with Marie. Her calm demeanour along with her extensive knowledge and international business experience make for very productive results. She has given me a fresh perspective on the potential direction of how my company can scale which I was not able to see myself being so close to it.
A priceless and outstanding experience.
Lance Fepulea’i
Award-winning Hip Hop Artist
Clothing Brand Entrepreneur
I had a problem completing a complicated business application to help grow my business, and I was looking for a Service Provider that speaks my language.
I was impressed with how fast Pacific Enterprise People (PEP) responded to my initial request, and appreciated the detailed and in-depth learning I received during the process.
I learnt so much about business that I ended up enrolling for courses to help upskill as a business owner.
I'm very satisfied with the results. I came with a problem and left with so much value and business planning solutions.
I highly recommend PEP.
Blessing Pita
Business Owner
I was fortunate to secure the time and services of PEP to assist me in fine tuning my business plan and implementing solid structures in preparation for growth.
As a home based business centred around natural healing, combining both traditional and mainstream methods of body work I needed to find someone that was culturally sensitive and open minded who could add mainstream business principles without losing the essence of how I want to brand, market and operate my business.
One of the insightful ways PEP helped me was the ability to peel back and uncover the true value of what I had to offer my clients. Once I saw this revelation I could begin to understand how to explain my value proposition to my market.
What I appreciated most about PEP was that my field of work was unfamiliar but nevertheless Marie invested time to truly understand what is involved, the effort and attention she put in enabled us to flesh out, strengthen, and purpose build a robust business plan.
Marie, I can not thank you enough for all your help, professional insight and continuous support. I look forward to our next phase.
Tania Glamuzina
Business Owner
The PEP Start business talanoa workshops were a catalyst to move from just an idea to starting a business with my business partner Sa’e. I got married the same year too! I look back now and although it was stressful juggling a lot at times, we made it through because Marie is always encouraging, professional and honest. Even now when we need perspective on business opportunities we regard her as our Mentor whom we refer to.
It’s been life changing!
Thank you PEP.
Valeria Gascoigne
Founding Director
EmpowerME Consulting
‘It has been such a pleasure working with you. Thank you for all your work. The way you respectfully facilitated, engaged and supported our Pacific community to navigate the Pacific Education funding space was much needed and valued by our team.’
Evelyn Niua
Practice & Implementation Advisor
Pasifika Learning Support
Ministry of Education
Malo Marie,
Thank you so much for our talanoa session, I found it extremely useful and informative. I was treated like a client of (PEP) Pacific Enterprise People, even though it was a complimentary online talanoa to begin with. I was referred to Marie’s services through a friend of mine.
Marie's effective listening towards my passion to advocate for the inclusion of Pacific People with disabilities in Aotearoa, was a value match and key to further talanoa (conversation) sessions about the next phase of my company brand.
She quickly captured the essence of my WHY. She’s passionate, genuine, and a visionary Pacific business coach.
Fa’afetai tele lava Marie, I’m excited to begin the PEP Start programme very soon.
Fonoti Pati Umaga, QSM
For several years Pacific Enterprise People has provided advisory and support services for Samoa Multimedia Group (SMG) and Multimedia Community Trust (MCT). PEP has been a trusted advisor and reliable consultant on many levels, including setting up MCT as a charitable organisation, and leading the trademark registration process for our national community walking group. PEP has always gone the extra mile and provided a strategic context of the specific actions required. Marie from PEP has been a very effective team player and positive driver of change.
Ane Ponifasio, QSM
Managing Director
Samoa Multimedia Group
“Thank you so so much for your support, whatever the outcome I will be forever thankful. No money could ever pay for the words of encouragement, your testimony and belief in people and your talent. Thank you for reminding me that I am a daughter of God and that he does love me”
Shirl'e Fruean
Hip Hop Artist
Community Advocate
“Praise God for the conversation and the blessings I have received from speaking with you. You are an inspirational person with great attributes and a business mind.
Thank you for the talanoa and the services your company has to offer. We look forward to working alongside your organisation to help with the branding and business strategy for the future of our business planning”
Talanoa Session Client | PEP Start
"I left our conversation
abundantly blessed!"
Talanoa Session Client | PEP Level
"I have never had such a holistic conversation about the enterprise of my life."
Liz Muliaga
"I wanted to discuss my business, but this session started with ME. Every business begins with the owner, and this amazing talanoa session unlocked issues that had been holding me back for my entire life. I'm looking forward to the next session, and to growing my business. Thank you, PEP!"
Talanoa Session Client | PEP Level
"I needed an experienced Pacific facilitator who had cultural intelligence, builds rapport quickly, someone who shares similar values to our team.
The outcome we were looking for was insight, engagement and feedback to help implement our strategic planning.
Our board enjoyed her relatable delivery and she exceeded our expectations. Among our senior board members Marie is highly regarded as a Mentor."
Marcus Amosa
Board Member
AAPICA Centre
"Marie’s services and reputation came highly recommended. As a leadership team we were needing help to move forward and refine our already formed concepts. With her positive approach, commitment and expertise she created a brand for our Komiti. Starting from our Talanoa workshops, crystallising our Vision, Mission, Values to forming our Brand Colours, Pacific Logo and topping it off with a brand new website.
We handed Marie our terms of reference, and she co-created a new Pacific brand that enables our leadership team to better serve our Whau Pacific Peoples in our community. Fa’afetai tele lava!
I highly endorse Pacific Enterprise People’s services."
Yvette Guttenbeil-Po’uhila , Chair
Whau Pasifika Komiti
"Marie’s experience as a business coach and trusted advisor has been invaluable and reassuring especially through growth and times of change.
As a Pacific business owner there’s often a lot to juggle. Marie provided sound and strategic advice for my brand as well as hands-on support for funding applications, client negotiation meetings, and advice for choosing the best strategic partnerships and media appearances. She even helped organise a person to put my Gym mirror up on the wall.
I’m very grateful and appreciate her professional commitment, expertise and pastoral care throughout the process. Thank you!
I highly recommend Pacific Enterprise People's services."
Aiga Pouoa
SunPix Pacific Peoples Award - 2018
CEO, Ryze Fitness
"Yesterday was a lot to take in, but I left filled with excitement, very reflective. I'll be working on the BRAND ME especially working on accepting my body,
my image, acceptance of self and believing in
what God has given me.
Really appreciate your counsel, knowledge and experience and to top it off your pastoral care to walk with us through a new journey."
PEP Start Client
Talanoa Workshop
"As a Samoan business woman, Marie brings a high level of skills, culture practises/competency, knowledge, experience and passion when developing and delivering programmes in particular for Pacific groups and the wider communities."
Pepe Sapolu-Reweti | Strategic Broker
Whau Connected Communities
Auckland Council
"I'm very grateful for the assistance and mentoring with this project. even if I had the basic knowledge to create my own website. I tried it and was overwhelmed. Leave it to the experts.
The efficiency of service, integrity of Marie and open communication throughout the whole process. I most definitely would recommend Marie's services. There is nothing too small or big in terms of questions or lack of understanding, (especially website terms) that you need to ask. Marie has a gentle approach to ensuring you leave the conversation with clarity :)
I highly recommend that if you are a startup and need a website for your small business, look no further. I have been blessed with coming out of this, with a little bit more of an understanding with how websites are created.
Being a creative visual, words are lost on me sometimes . But with Marie’s expertise and sincere temperament to help accomplish your goals, it is a win - win!
Thank you Marie for your invaluable help. "
Janet Faofua | PEP Start Client
Founder OtaEight
"It was a pleasure to have Marie at the PACIFICA conference. Your personal story was powerful in its honesty!”
Sina Wendt-Moore
Chief Executive Officer
Leadership New Zealand
"Marie has worked voluntarily with our leadership teams with several community projects. She’s passionate about what she believes, and communicates well not only amongst the business corporate world, but within our community.”
Lui Ponifasio, QSM
Senior Pastor, LifeChurch
NZCounties Manukau Police Chaplain
"Excellent combination of structure, expertise and patience."
Mat Wylie, CEO,
Customer Radar
Marie Workshop Attendee
Executive Social Media Training
Global Learning Committee,
Entrepreneurs Organisation (EO)
"I most liked Marie's informal style and small group interaction."
Murray Willis, Principal
Willis Associates
Marie Workshop Attendee
Executive Social Media Training
"Thanks Marie for a great mind-blowing day!"
Sue May
Fox Films NZ
Marie Workshop Attendee
Executive Social Media Training
"A friendly fast-paced knowledge transfer session
that stretches the mind ... very good value!"
John Blackham, CEO, XSOL
Marie Workshop Attendee
Executive Social Media Training
"I'm more competent and excited to explore further"
Luke Kaa-Morgan,
Profile and Promotion
David and Dale Garratt Music
Marie Workshop Attendee
Executive Social Media Training
"I have increased confidence and knowledge that I can do this!"
Georgie Major, Marketer
Marie Workshop Attendee
Executive Social Media Training
"I really like Marie's style and overall attitude.
I like the hands-on approach to training"
Rob Bree, Marketing Consultant
Marie Workshop Attendee
Executive Social Media Training