PACIFIC BUSINESS TRUST AUCKLAND
Maria Fastnedge
Business Facilitator
Born in Apia and raised in West Auckland of Chinese/Samoan heritage, Maria brings over 30 years of experience to the Pacific Business Trust. Joining the Trust in August 2009, her involvement in numerous community groups as well as diverse industry experiences ranging from IT, real estate, travel, fast food, communication, both in NZ and Australia stands her in good stead in her role as Business Facilitator. Her involvement in the long standing family owned business, as well as setting up a number of business ventures, has helped Maria accumulate knowledge and skills in areas ranging from administration, accounts through to sales and marketing, importing and exporting. Making a difference in other people’s lives by assisting them to grow and achieve their dreams (both in business and personal lives), was the driver to join the Trust. “Making It Happen” for others through the facilitation, mentoring, coaching and advisory programmes offered by Pacific Business Trust, is a privilege.
PACIFIC BUSINESS TRUST WELLINGTON
Fa'avaoa Kerr
Business Facilitator
Fa’avaoa Kerr joined the Trust in August 2006, she is full Samoan (fluent speaker - her Mother is from Iva, Savaii and her Father from Faleasiu, Upolu). Fa’avaoa has a strong background in Business banking (SME’s) and valuable experience coordinating and developing an E-learning Business Administration programme for adult students. Her participation with community based events and youth initiatives through local churches has inspired her passion to see Pacific people celebrate their uniqueness and fulfil their God given potential. Faavaoa works with clients as far away as Palmerston North and Wanganui and have assisted businesses ranging from the creative industries, hospitality, trades and professional consultancies.
PACIFIC BUSINESS TRUST CHRISTCHURCH
Maliepo Toma
Business Facilitator
Maliepo is a Business Facilitator in the PBT Christchurch office. He holds a Masters Degree in Development Management from the Australian National University in Canberra and a Bachelor Degree in Geography from the University of Auckland.
Maliepo is very passionate about his roles of assisting Pacific people in to business thereby improving their contribution to the economy. Before moving to New Zealand Maliepo worked in Nuku’alofa for NZAID where he was the Development Project Co-ordinator. His responsibilities included co-ordinating local development projects. Previously Maliepo has also served in the Tongan Public Sector and has held a number of senior management roles at the Ministry of Labour Commerce & Industries; he was responsible for small business promotion and entrepreneurship development.