In many Pacific communities, traditional leadership structures and cultural hierarchies play a significant role in decision-making. While these structures are deeply rooted in respect and values that uphold communal well-being, they can also become barriers for Pacific entrepreneurs trying to innovate, grow, and take ownership of their business journeys.

Traditional Pacific leadership structures are often based on seniority (or rank) rather than capability or merit. This means that younger or more qualified individuals may struggle to have their ideas taken seriously because respect is given to those of higher rank, regardless of expertise. In business, this can slow decision-making and prevent new, innovative approaches from being implemented.

Many Pacific entrepreneurs have fear and hesitance in challenging authority or questioning authority figures, even when they see a better way forward. Whether it's in a family business or a broader industry setting, there’s often an unspoken rule that decisions from elders or those in leadership positions should not be questioned. This can result in businesses following outdated practices instead of evolving to remain competitive.

Our cultural leadership hierarchies sometimes mean that women and young people are excluded and expected to take a backseat in decision-making. While many Pacific cultures value the role of women and youth, business opportunities are often dominated by traditional gatekeepers, making it harder for new voices to be heard. This leads to missed opportunities for fresh perspectives, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Those in leadership positions, in many Pacific cultures, often have significant expectations placed upon them to give back to their communities, churches, and extended families. While giving is a core Pacific value, excessive obligations can drain business resources, making it difficult for entrepreneurs to reinvest in their growth. Business owners may feel pressured to prioritise cultural commitments over their financial sustainability.

The one that gets me the most, is the gatekeeping of opportunities. Some individuals in positions of power may control access to resources, funding, or business opportunities, only sharing them within their immediate circles or with those they personally favour. This creates barriers for new entrepreneurs trying to break into industries or access support that could help them grow. Instead of working together as a community, this kind of leadership hierarchy creates division and limit progress.

While these challenges exist, cultural leadership hierarchies don’t have to be a hindrance. We us a community can reshape leadership within our businesses and communities by encouraging inclusive decision-making, recognising skills and expertise over just seniority, allowing younger and more innovative minds to contribute meaningfully. By building confidence in challenging the norms. teaching Pacific entrepreneurs that questioning ideas and suggesting improvements is not disrespectful but necessary for progress. By balancing cultural values with business sustainability. Setting boundaries that allow business owners to contribute to their communities while still prioritising growth and financial health. By opening doors for others and encouraging those in leadership positions to share knowledge, connections, and opportunities fairly, rather than gatekeeping access to success.


Pacific culture is built on respect, family, and service but it must also adapt to empower business owners to lead, innovate, and thrive without unnecessary restrictions. The future of Pacific entrepreneurship depends on how we respect tradition while making space for progress.

Challenges Pacific Businesses Face and How We Can Overcome Them.
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For those who know me well, would know that I am deeply passionate about what I do,  and the work we do at The Pacific Business Hub. I believe in enabling businesses and empowering entrepreneurs so they can thrive, and our communities also thrive.

I understand the journey of being a business owner, the highs, the struggles, and the resilience required to keep going. I see entrepreneurship as a catalyst for change, a way to be self-determined, and a path toward sustainability for our Pacific peoples.

This blog is about real challenges that our Pacific businesses face. Here are some of my insights of what is holding most of us back from taking the journey into business and entrepreneurship.

I know some of this may resonate with most entrepreneurs, regardless of background, because the business journey is full of similar challenges. However, my heart is with my Pacific community, and these insights come from my own personal experiences and the lessons I’ve learned walking this path with them.

Other than your main barriers to entrepreneurship and business ownership such as limited access to funding and start-up capital, lack of business support, training and coaching, high operational costs, limited presence both online and offline and limited market access, Pacific entrepreneurs have extra challenges they have to deal with.

Lack of Confidence & Self-Belief
One of the biggest hurdles Pacific entrepreneurs face is not having the confidence and belief in themselves. Self-doubt can prevent individuals from taking the first step or scaling their business to the next level.

Fear of Judgement
Many Pacific entrepreneurs hesitate to put themselves out there because of the fear of what others might think. The pressure to meet community expectations or avoid criticism can prevent people from taking risks, launching businesses, or promoting their work. Remember that not everyone will understand your journey, and that's okay, your business is about your vision, not external approval. Surround yourself with supportive people who uplift you rather than those who discourage progress. Take small steps to build confidence, visibility and success come with consistency.

Hesitant to Ask for Help
Culturally, many of us are raised to be self-sufficient and avoid burdening others. This mindset can make it difficult to ask for help, even when guidance or mentorship could accelerate business growth. We must understand that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness, successful businesses thrive on collaboration. Seek mentors, business networks, or support groups like The Pacific Business Hub where sharing knowledge is encouraged. Be open to learning from others; no one succeeds alone.

Lack of Support from Family Members and Community
​Another challenge comes from our own families and communities, who, instead of supporting our businesses, often ask for discounts, free services, or sponsorships. This expectation can be discouraging and financially draining.

And Not all families understand entrepreneurship, and many business owners struggle with unsupportive relatives who question their choices or expect them to prioritise other obligations over their business.

Balancing Business & Cultural Responsibilities
​Our Pacific values of family, respect, and giving back are strengths, but they can sometimes hold us back in business. Many entrepreneurs feel obligated to financially support extended family, and these commitments can impact business operations. Giving back to the community is important, but it can sometimes stretch financial and time resources.

Cultural Leadership Hierarchy Challenges
In many Pacific communities, traditional leadership structures and cultural hierarchies play a significant role in decision-making. While these structures are deeply rooted in respect and values that uphold communal well-being, they can also become barriers for Pacific entrepreneurs trying to innovate, grow, and take ownership of their business journeys, and make it difficult to embrace new ideas or challenge norms.

• This is a very touchy subject and it deserves it's own blog- I will write on this probably in my next one.

Not Valuing Our Own Work
One of the biggest struggles Pacific entrepreneurs face is not valuing our own work. Too often, we question whether our prices are too high, feeling guilty for charging what our products or services are actually worth. We underprice our work to avoid seeming greedy, but in doing so, we undermine our own value. Always remember, your work has worth. Pricing should reflect the skill, time, and effort you put into your business. When you devalue your work, others will too.

The Challenge of Humility
Being humble is a deeply valued Pacific trait, but in business, it can sometimes hold us back. Many entrepreneurs avoid promoting themselves, pricing their services fairly, or stepping into leadership roles because they fear being seen as arrogant. While humility is important, business success requires confidence and self-advocacy.

My Final Thoughts
I truly believe that our Pacific businesses have the power to thrive. We already have everything we need within our communities, the knowledge, the resilience, and the willingness to uplift one another.

Believe in yourself, believe in your abilities, trust the process and have faith that everything will work out.

Like the scripture says in Jeremiah 29:11:
'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'

This scripture serves as a reminder for me, and it reminds us all that our journey in business is not just about making profits but about fulfilling a purpose, lifting others, and creating opportunities for future generations.

By embracing the solutions available, connecting with the right networks, and continuously learning, we can create businesses that are sustainable, impactful, and successful.

If you’re looking for business support, networking opportunities, or guidance, The Pacific Business Hub is here to help. Let’s work together to uplift and empower our Pacific business community!