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Background

The Pacific Island Farmers Organisation Network serves as an umbrella organisation for national farmer organisations in the Pacific region, to coordinate capacity building, share success stories and the lessons learnt and support regional exchanges of expertise between farmer organisations and their associated private sector partners.

We began informally operating in 2008, and registered as a not-for-profit company in 2013. Today we represent a vibrant and growing network of national farmer organisations that are increasingly changing the face of agriculture in the region. Our secretariat is based in Nadi, Fiji and has grown from two part-time staff working out of a shared office, to having our current staff working from our own space.

Meet Our Board

Minoru Nishi

Chairman | Managing Director, Nishi Trading Company

Maria Linibi

Board Director | Founder, Papua New Guinea Women In Agriculture & Development

Leaupepe Lasa Aiono

Board Director | Treasurer, Samoa Farmers Association

Peter Koah

Board Director | Associate Director, Farm Support Association

Fr. Petero Matairatu

Board Director | Director, Tutu Rural Training Centre

Aileen Burness

Board Director | Managing Director, South Sea Orchids

Meet Our Team

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Kyle Stice

The wind beneath our wings, this American born but Fijian die-hard horticulturist has been there right from the word ‘Go’ for Pacific Farmer Organisations. Even though he’s wearing many organizational hats and being a husband and father to his very supportive wife and four feisty children , Kyle has managed to keep the Pacific Islands Farmers Organisation Network boat sailing with ease.

FINANCE MANAGER

Aneet Kumar

Aneet joined Pacific Farmer Organisations in 2014 after having had 8 years of experience in the finance arena in various NGO’s.  Money matters has always been Aneet’s baby and he doesn’t see himself doing anything else in the near future. After a hard week’s work, our Money Man always looks forward to chilling with his family and friends.

GRANTS MANAGER

Losalini Qiolevu

When the tough gets going, the tough is Lo that keeps it going as the Grants Manager. A single mother of two who has vast experience of handling finance for non-profit organisations, joining PFO at the outset of the FO4ACP project to bring depth into the admin team with her experience. Lo is the ‘go to’ person for the little details, follow up and ensures all required documentation is completed accurately and submitted on time to funders so PFO and its members can do their work to serve their farmers.

PROGRAM MANAGER, M&E

Angela Birch

The number cruncher in the program team at PFO, Angela ensures that the impact of the activities conducted by PFO’s members is reported to reflect the great work done by its Farmer Organisation members. Angela spent most of her life working in the tourism industry before venturing into agriculture, an ‘exciting new chapter’. A former athlete and now a mum, she volunteers her time for sports administrator duties, seeing her regularly driving to Suva to attend various family and sporting obligations, providing the balance to her work.

PROGRAM MANAGER

Mohinesh Reddy

Incredibly passionate about empowering local farmers, Mohinesh Reddy is making a real difference behind the FORI Pacific Breadfruit Project that’s bringing about positive changes in Pacific communities. In his free time, he’s usually out and about in the company of friends and family exploring local markets, trying new foods, and immersing himself in different cultures!

COMMUNICATIONS 

Merewalesi Bogi Rokosawa

Merewalesi joined Pacific Farmers Organisation in 2021 as the Communication Officer for the PIRAS Project. She brings a strong commitment to supporting rural communities and a passion for improving livelihoods through sustainable agricultural practices. She plays a vital role in ensuring clear and consistent messaging that empowers rural communities and fosters project success.

Her personal interests in DIY projects and home gardening reflect her creativity and resourcefulness, qualities that are valuable assets to the PFO team.

FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION OFFICER 

Shayal Padarath

Shayal brings a wealth of expertise in financial management and administrative support to her role as Finance and Administration Officer at Pacific Farmer Organisations. She plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of financial processes and administrative functions within PFO and its members. Outside of the office, Shayal enjoys a well-rounded life. She keeps her finger on the pulse of local trends by exploring new restaurants and indulging in retail therapy. For relaxation, she unwinds with afternoon cocktails by the beach and cherishes quality time spent with her family.

FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION OFFICER

Conie Matawalu

Conie brings a deep passion for farming and a strong work ethic to her role as Finance & Administration Officer at Pacific Farmer Organisations. Having grown up on a farm, she understands the challenges and rewards faced by farmers firsthand. She is dedicated to applying her skills in finance and administration to support the organization’s mission and empower Pacific farmers. Conie enjoys spending time with her two daughters when she’s not working. She also finds time to pursue personal goals, demonstrating her commitment to a well-rounded life.

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