Pacific Business Owner Celebrates Milestone with Pop-Up Store in Westfield Manukau

Pacific business owner Noeleen Tuala is celebrating the recent milestone of setting up a kiosk in Manukau Westfield Mall, marking a significant step forward for Pacific entrepreneurs in mainstream retail.

Pacific business owner and ‘Polytreneur’ Noeleen Tuala is celebrating the recent milestone of setting up a kiosk in Manukau Westfield Mall.
Photo: PMN News

A Journey of Hard Work and Resilience

Tuala’s journey to establishing her business, PELE, has been marked by long hours, tears, and hits to her mental health. However, she remains determined to showcase Pacific designs and represent her people.

“Noeleen found it hard to find quality Pasifika designed items for her grandbabies so PELE was created,” Tuala said of her inspiration to start the business. “My ‘why’ has always been my family, but I’ve realised it’s much bigger than that, I want to represent my people and show them that they can do this too.”

Noeleen Tuala found it hard to find quality Pasifika designed items for her grandbabies so PELE was created.
Photo: PMN News

A Call for Increased Visibility and Inclusivity

According to a report by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited: Glimpses into Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s Pacific Economic Future, increased visibility of Pacific businesses in high-traffic areas is crucial for their success.

“A report by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited: Glimpses into Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s Pacific Economic Future, underscored the importance of Pacific success in Auckland’s economy and called for increased visibility of Pacific businesses in high-traffic areas,” said Apulu Auckland Councilor. “Pacific entrepreneurs are often overlooked, but showcasing successful businesses in prominent spaces like Westfield could change that.”

Noeleen Tuala found it hard to find quality Pasifika designed items for her grandbabies so PELE was created.
Photo: PMN News

Conclusion

Tuala’s success with PELE is a testament to the power of Pacific entrepreneurship and determination. As she remains at Westfield Manukau for the next five weeks, Tuala hopes that her presence will inspire others to follow in her footsteps.

“It’s just nice to be able to stand in our authenticity – being Pasifika – and make our parents proud, as well as those who came before us and those who come after us,” Tuala said.