Deffe Bennie Exclusive: Young Entrepreneur Launches Eco-Tourism Venture in Choiseul
By Kreiner Tukali,Isles Media Tourism News desk
Deffe Bennie, a recent graduate from the Solomon Islands National University (SINU) with a Bachelor’s in Tourism and Hospitality Studies, is set to make waves in the tourism sector. Bennie is embarking on an exciting venture to build an eco-tourism lodge called Aelan Life Lodge in Choiseul Province.
On January 27, 2026, Bennie received a significant boost, securing $40,000 in funding from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism through the Launch Pad Initiative. This initiative, supported by the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) and SINU, aims to empower young entrepreneurs in the tourism industry.
Aelan Life Lodge will offer a range of eco-tourism experiences, including fishing, snorkeling, and diving. Bennie is also keen to showcase Choiseul Province’s stunning natural sites to attract tourists.
Bennie expressed his gratitude for the funding, emphasizing its crucial role in launching his lodge. The funds will be used for logistics, acquiring materials, and turning his vision into reality.
Bennie encourages the younger generation to seize opportunities in the tourism industry, emphasizing that starting small is acceptable. “We must get into the tourism industry to earn foreign income and boost our economy,” he stated. “It also creates job opportunities, provides markets for tourists, and promotes our home and country to the world.”
Aelan Life Lodge will focus on eco-friendly practices, contributing to the conservation of the natural environment, promoting local cultures, and benefiting local communities.
Bennie’s long-term goal is to boost tourism in Choiseul Province, which currently lags behind other provinces like Guadalcanal, Western, Central, and Malaita. He hopes to set an example and inspire others in Choiseul to invest in tourism.
Bennie is proud of Choiseul’s natural resources and is excited to start his lodge. He expressed his appreciation to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, YECSI, and SINU for creating this opportunity for young graduates like himself.
