THE ASSOCIATION
The V-LAB is a charitable Association established in October 2019 with the support of the Government of New-Zealand and fully registered with the Vanuatu Financial Service Commission (VFSC). V-Lab is composed of individuals who are dedicated to support and promote entrepreneurship, ideas, innovation and creative thinking in Vanuatu. Together, we bring a great amount of experience, expertise, passion and commitment to accompany anyone who wants to develop a business or an idea in the country !
Our work
The V-LAB development program has three objectives:
- To accompany young entrepreneurs and social change actors in the development & growth of their businesses or their organizations, with an emphasis on businesses and organizations which focus on innovation, green economy and social entrepreneurship
- To improve and enhance the Financial inclusion and digital transformation of these businesses in close coordination with our banking and ICT partners
- To influence and support the development of an environment that is conducive to entrepreneurship and social change in the country, through for instance policy reform and development.
The Bureau of the Committee of the Association is composed of the following individuals:
Marc-Antoine MOREL - President
Marc-Antoine Morel
worked 15 years with the United-Nations throughout the world before he moved with his family to Vanuatu. After having worked as Manager, Corporate Services at AJC, he decided to create V-Lab in order to support entrepreneurship and promote innovation in Vanuatu. |
John SALONG - Vice President
John SALONG
is a dynamic leader, serving as Vanuatu's Minister of Finance and Economic Management since November 2023. With a background as aPolitical Economy and Public Consultant, he brings years of expertise to his role. Salong, a member of the Ambrym Constituency since March 2020, champions labour mobility and microfinance initiatives. His extensive education, including an MBA and BA degrees, coupled with international studies, underpins his strategic approach to economic development. Salong’s longstanding involvement in Civil Society Organizations and microbusiness also underscores his commitment to community empowerment and inclusive growth. |
Johnny Wilson - Treasurer
Johnny WILSON
has carved a remarkable career in finance, serving as a Bank Manager at ANZ Bank for 20 years before advancing to the role of Managing Director at Credit Corporation, a position he has held for 5 years. His academic credentials include a Diploma in Business Management from Deakin University, Australia, and he is on the verge of completing his Masters in Management Consulting from York St John University, UK. Beyond his professional achievements, Wilson is deeply committed to community service, demonstrated by his roles as Chairman of the Efate Sanma Province Executive Committee for 4 years and President of the Tull Association for a decade. Additionally, he is a certified PADI Scuba Dive Master since 2012, highlighting his diverse interests and capabilities. |
Wilma SINUMILA - Secretary
Wilma SINUMILA
has led an illustrious career marked by significant firsts for Ni-Vanuatu women, alongside her cherished role as a mother to three sons. Her academic foundation was laid at Central Primary School and Malapoa College, culminating in a Bachelor of Business Studies from New Zealand and an MBA from Australia. Wilma's professional journey includes pivotal roles at ANZ from 2002 to 2015 across Australia, Fiji, Kiribati, and Vanuatu, Her impact extended through collaborations with the Australian High Commission, Air Vanuatu, and, most notably, her historic appointments as the first female Ni-Vanuatu ANZ Vanuatu Chief Operating Officer and General Manager at Wanfuteng Bank, embodying her belief in the possible for her Ni Vanuatu sisters. |
Roy Tinning - Active Member
Roy Tinning's life journey encompasses a blend of service, leadership, and continuous learning. His educational path began at Aore Adventist Academy, later enriching his knowledge with a certificate of Justice from USP after studying Law for two years. Roy's diverse career includes honourable involvement with the PNG Defense Force as part of the Peacekeeping Force during the 1980 independence, roles in hospitality as pool attendant and housekeeping manager at the Intercontinental Island Inn, and navigating Vanuatu waters as a second captain for three years. He furthered his commitment to service as a church minister for 11 years, with training from Betikama and Kukudu schools in the Solomons and additional training in Australia, before transitioning to a significant role in the workforce as a Production Manager at National Taste of Vanuatu. Currently, Roy upholds justice as a Judge of the Efate Island Court, a position he has dedicatedly held for seven years, exemplifying his varied skills and deep commitment to his community
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Dalida Borlasa - Active Member
Dalida Borlasa, a dynamic entrepreneur, founded Yumi Up, an innovative upcycling solution, and a charming handicraft shop, showcasing her passion for sustainability and creativity. With a solid foundation from her 12-year tenure at Pandanus shop, Dalida brings extensive experience in retail and customer service to her ventures. Committed to personal and professional growth, she attended Empowerment Manples training at V-Lab, enhancing her skills and network within the community. Dalida's dedication to fostering sustainable practices and empowering others exemplifies her role as a leader in both business and social initiatives.
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