Cook Islander on trust board Wed 17 Jul A Cook Islands national has been appointed to the board of the Pacific Business Trust, bringing his skills and expertise to the economic development organisation. Teremoana (Mona) Mato, a prominent community personality in Rarotonga, has been appointed to the board of the trust for a three-year term. “I’m excited at the opportunity to give back to our Pacific people and advocate their business and economic interests,” said Mato. The Pacific Business Trust (PBT) describes itself as a “not for profit” charitable trust. Set up in 1985, PBT’s mission is about “providing economic development services for Pacific businesses and business people within New Zealand”. “I bring to the board my international trade, export and investment experience,” said Mato, in describing what he has to offer. “The ability to engage at the grassroots level with a sound understanding of the issues confronted by our Pacific people, a reflection of my work with micro and small business developments in the Cook Islands,” are attributes cited by Mato that will help him get the job done. “A good understanding of our Pacific cultures and its dynamics is a bonus.” Mato joins a team of qualified business advisors and facilitators at the trust, which aims to offer businesses relevant training and proactive business assistance. “I’ve always maintained our Pacific people are entrepreneurial, they have the skills base and desire to succeed, our role as a board is to mould these attributes, nurture them and help make it work,” he said. “We have a pivotal role to play among other supporting systems in place, and it’s supporting the prosperity of our Pacific communities in NZ.” Mato currently works as a trade and export services manager with Pacific Islands Trade & Invest, an Auckland-based agency that facilitates exports, investment and tourism promotion in the region. He also holds a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) and post-graduate diploma in management studies from the University of Waikato in New Zealand. The board appointee also had kind words for fellow nationals who he says paved the way for him to take on his new duties. “I’d like to pay tribute to the outgoing Chair, one of our vibrant Cook Islanders in NZ Caren Rangi for her excellent work at the helm and for her support and guidance with my new role,” said Mato. “Also if I can acknowledge Jaewynn McKay, another of our dynamic Cook Islanders for her recommendation of my appointment to the board.” cinews.co.ck
Posted on: Mon, 22 Jul 2013 06:02:34 +0000
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