In the verdant landscapes of Papua New Guinea (PNG), where communities are deeply rooted in agricultural traditions, the tale of Devine Management Services Ltd (DMS) emerges as a beacon of inspiration and community impact. Founded by Dorothy Luana, a visionary with an unwavering commitment to her community, DMS has journeyed from modest beginnings to become an emblem of Pacific entrepreneurship.
At the heart of DMS’s narrative is the galip, a native nut cherished by generations. But while this nut has sustained communities for years, it was Dorothy’s foresight and dedication that envisioned it as an ambassador of Papua New Guinea’s bounty on the global stage.
However, the road to global recognition wasn’t embarked upon alone. Dorothy’s initial encounter with an officer from Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) Australia, facilitated by PNG’s Investment Promotion Authority in 2017, proved pivotal. PTI’s insights on volume and export-ready packaging set the wheels in motion.
“The lessons we gleaned from PTI were invaluable. They illuminated our path, making us realise that for our product to shine internationally, we had to be rigorous and meticulous,” recalls Dorothy.
Over the years, PTI’s newsletters and business updates served as valuable insights for the DMS team. These updates were more than just informational – they were a source of inspiration. Engaging with the stories of other entrepreneurs, Dorothy often found herself drawing parallels with their journeys, pushing her and her team towards their goals.
“Reading about fellow Pacific entrepreneurs, it made me think, if they can make such strides, why can’t we? Their stories became a catalyst for our aspirations,” shares Dorothy.
While PTI provided guidance, the real labour was undertaken by DMS. Six years of unyielding effort, learning the intricacies of barcoding, and adapting to global standards. Throughout this journey, the primary driving force for DMS was not just commercial success but also the betterment of their community.
DMS’s community impact is monumental. With a network encompassing over 500 households as potential galip suppliers, the company serves as a nexus of opportunity. From training mothers in baking, to supporting women in marketing their crafts, and educating families on running farm businesses, DMS has been more than a business entity; it’s been a change agent. Their upcoming endeavour, the first ever Galip Association, promises to be a landmark initiative, further intertwining the growth of DMS with the prosperity of the community.
Their commitment to the community is palpable. DMS’s initiative of starting a galip nursery underlines their visionary approach, ensuring future generations are equipped with the means to cultivate and benefit from this precious crop.
All these endeavours have required significant resources, and DMS has risen to the challenge admirably.
“We’re impassioned by our mission. It’s not just about business growth; it’s about uplifting our fellow farmers, sharing knowledge and paving the path for collective success,” Dorothy shares.
Amid the success and challenges, certain messages resonate deeply with DMS. Success, especially in the Agri-business sector, demands patience and perseverance. Community, collaboration and shared vision are imperative. Challenges, while inevitable, are merely stepping stones to greater heights.
Yet, amid the achievements, gratitude remains at the core of DMS’s ethos. Their participation at the Fine Food Australia 2023, facilitated by PTI, stands out as a testament to the collaboration and mutual respect between the two entities.
“We’re profoundly thankful to PTI Australia for their unwavering support and belief in our vision. The opportunity to showcase our product at Fine Food Australia was a moment of pride and affirmation,” says Dorothy.
DMS’s journey reflects a blend of ambition, resilience and a deep connection to the community. It showcases what can happen when passion is paired with a clear purpose, and when local knowledge benefits from the supportive guidance of organisations like PTI Australia. Their story offers encouragement to other Pacific entrepreneurs, suggesting that with dedication and teamwork, many goals are attainable.
For more information regarding Pacific exports to the Australian market, reach out to the PTI Australia team here.
