Business
The Importance of Taking Calculated Risks for Pasifika Success: Insights from Pasifika Leaders and Entrepreneurs
Taking risks is an integral part of achieving success.
by Joey Nanai I 26 April 2023
However, many individuals are reluctant to take risks and often end up procrastinating. Pasifika individuals, in particular, often face challenges that can hinder them from taking risks, such as cultural expectations and socioeconomic circumstances. Nonetheless, taking calculated risks can greatly benefit Pasifika individuals and the wider community.
According to famous Pasifika writer and poet, Albert Wendt, "You've got to take risks if you want to find out who you are." This sentiment is echoed by many Pasifika leaders, who recognize the importance of taking risks to achieve success.
For Pasifika individuals, taking risks can lead to greater opportunities for personal and professional growth. It can also lead to increased financial stability and the ability to support one's family and community. As Pasifika leaders, we have a responsibility to encourage and support our community in taking calculated risks that will benefit them in the long run.
The story of two young Pasifika sales leaders, Tiana and Manu, exemplifies the benefits of taking risks. Tiana and Manu both grew up in low-income households, and their families faced financial struggles. However, they were determined to break the cycle of poverty and create a better life for themselves and their families.
Tiana was a natural-born leader, and after completing her education, she secured a job in sales. Despite her initial success, she felt unfulfilled and knew she wanted to do more. She took a risk and quit her job to start her own sales consultancy. Although it was a daunting prospect, Tiana was determined to succeed. She worked tirelessly to build her business, networking and making connections with potential clients. Today, Tiana's consultancy is a thriving business, and she is not only financially stable but also able to support her family and give back to her community.
Manu, on the other hand, started his career in sales in his early twenties. He was passionate about the industry and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a sales manager at a young age. However, Manu felt like he had hit a ceiling in his career and knew that he needed to take a risk to achieve his goals. He left his stable job to start his own business, an online platform for Pasifika entrepreneurs. Although it was a risky move, Manu's platform quickly gained traction and became a popular resource for Pasifika entrepreneurs. Today, Manu is not only financially successful but is also empowering other Pasifika individuals to pursue their dreams.
Tiana and Manu's stories demonstrate the potential benefits of taking risks. As Pasifika individuals, it can be easy to feel discouraged by the challenges we face, but we must remember that taking calculated risks can lead to greater opportunities for success.
Taking risks can also benefit the wider Pasifika community. As Pasifika leaders, we have a responsibility to support and encourage others in our community to take risks that will benefit them in the long run. By doing so, we can create a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation within the Pasifika community.
In conclusion, taking risks is an important part of achieving success. Pasifika individuals, in particular, face unique challenges that can make it difficult to take risks. However, by taking calculated risks, we can create greater opportunities for personal and professional growth, financial stability, and community development. As Pasifika leaders, we must encourage and support our community in taking risks that will benefit them and the wider community in the long run.
As famous Pasifika writer and poet, Epeli Hau'ofa once said, "The sea is our pathway to each other and to everyone else in the world." Let us not be afraid to sail into uncharted waters and take risks in pursuit of a better future for ourselves and our community. Together, we can create a brighter future for the Pasifika community.
One of the ways that Pasifika individuals can take calculated risks is by pursuing entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship allows individuals to take control of their financial destiny and create their own opportunities. However, starting a business can be a daunting prospect, and many Pasifika individuals may not have access to the resources or support they need to succeed. As Pasifika leaders, it is our responsibility to create an environment that supports Pasifika entrepreneurs and provides them with the resources they need to succeed.
Famous Pasifika entrepreneur and businessman, Victor Samuel, once said, "Success in business requires training and discipline and hard work. But if you're not frightened by these things, the opportunities are just as great today as they ever were." This sentiment is true for Pasifika individuals, who may face unique challenges in starting a business. However, with the right training, discipline, and hard work, Pasifika entrepreneurs can succeed and create a better future for themselves and their community.