The Commonwealth Alliance of Young Entrepreneurs (CAYE) Pacific, in a historic and pivotal move, launched its ground-breaking initiative on August 3rd, aimed at fostering economic growth and social development among the youth in the Pacific region. This significant endeavor signifies a beacon of hope for the young entrepreneurs of the Pacific nations, encapsulating their aspirations, and paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous future.
Government officials and business leaders attended the virtual launch, which included a roundtable discussion about the state of youth entrepreneurship in the Pacific.
Keynote speaker Dr Mema Motusaga, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Women, Community, and Social Development in Samoa, applauded the establishment of CAYE Pacific, describing it as a youth-centred strategy that could accelerate the progression of important Sustainable Development Goals, such as those focused on tackling youth unemployment and encouraging economic growth.
CAYE-Pacific Chairperson Alex Andric, emphasized that the network would focus on connecting innovative and pioneering young entrepreneurs in the region, offering them access to local and international events and opportunities, as well as collaboration with other CAYE networks and entrepreneurs in Africa and Asia and broaden market opportunities.
One of the primary objectives of CAYE Pacific is to provide a platform for young entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and innovate. By fostering a vibrant network of like-minded individuals, the alliance aims to catalyse entrepreneurship, facilitating knowledge sharing, mentorship, and resource access. This support system is crucial in empowering young people to transform their innovative ideas into viable businesses.
Moreover, CAYE Pacific recognizes that access to capital and financial resources can be a significant barrier for young entrepreneurs. To address this issue, the alliance has set up various funding mechanisms and financial literacy programs. By doing so, CAYE Pacific aims to ensure that young entrepreneurs have the necessary resources and skills to navigate the complex financial landscape, making their businesses more resilient and sustainable.
In addition to economic empowerment, CAYE Pacific places a strong emphasis on social development. The initiative seeks to address some of the most pressing social challenges facing the Pacific region, such as unemployment, poverty, and environmental sustainability. Through targeted initiatives and partnerships with local organizations, CAYE Pacific aims to create businesses and projects that have a positive impact on society.
One key aspect of CAYE Pacific’s mission is to promote sustainable entrepreneurship. The Pacific region, with its unique environmental and cultural diversity, offers immense opportunities for businesses that prioritize sustainability. By encouraging young entrepreneurs to adopt eco-friendly practices and incorporate social responsibility into their business models, CAYE Pacific is contributing to the broader goals of environmental conservation and community well-being.
Furthermore, the launch event on August 3rd brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government representatives, business leaders, and young entrepreneurs. This collaborative approach ensures that the initiative is well-aligned with the region’s economic and social development agendas. It also fosters a sense of ownership and commitment among all parties involved, making it more likely for the initiative to succeed in the long run.
CAYE Pacific understands that to achieve its objectives, it must adapt and evolve continually. As such, the alliance is committed to regular assessments of its impact and effectiveness. By collecting data and feedback from its members and partners, CAYE Pacific can refine its programs and strategies to better serve the needs of young entrepreneurs and the broader community.
The launch of CAYE Pacific on August 3rd, 2023, represents a significant step forward in empowering young entrepreneurs in the Pacific region. By focusing on economic growth, social development, and sustainability, this initiative has the potential to transform the lives of countless young individuals and contribute to the overall progress of the Pacific nations. With its collaborative approach and commitment to innovation, CAYE Pacific is poised to make a lasting and positive impact on the region’s economy and society.
The Inaugural CAYE-Pacific Committee comprises:
- Alexander Andric Chairperson
- Zachary Harrigan Vice Chairperson
- Sakshi Thakur Executive Committee Member: Australia
- Kim Nguyen Executive Committee Member: Australia
- Tevita Rakula Executive Committee Member: Fiji
- Best A. Uthakhamkong Executive Committee Member: New Zealand
- Bradley Yombon-Copio Executive Committee Member: Papua New Guinea
- Kevin Chuster Executive Committee Member: Samoa
