Tourism Dream Grows Naturally for Branco Ladoa in Malaita Province

BY JOY OFASIA

From working in hotels and kitchens to building a botanical garden that celebrates the beauty of Malaita, Branco Ladoa is following his passion for tourism while creating something meaningful for his community and future generations.

Originally from Radefasu Village in Malaita Province and now living in Auki, Branco’s journey began after he completed high school. Encouraged by his mother, he enrolled at the Malaita Institute of Technology (TIM) in 2016 to study Tourism and Hospitality. Three years later, he graduated with the knowledge and determination to begin his career.

After finishing his studies, Branco gained valuable experience in the tourism and hospitality industry. He started work as a bartender at Coral Sea Resort before joining Heritage Park Hotel, where he trained in commercial cookery and developed his skills as a chef. He later joined the University Catering Team during the Pacific Games, serving athletes and visitors during the major regional event.

To provide additional support for his family, Branco also spent two years in Australia under the seasonal worker program. There, he worked in fruit picking and packhouse operations, gaining practical skills and valuable life experience.

Looking back, Branco believes every job prepared him for the future and strengthened his dream of becoming a business owner.

“Working in the tourism and hospitality industry was exciting. From being a bartender to becoming a chef, every job made me imagine that one day I would own a business and be my own boss,” he said.

Earlier this year, that dream started becoming reality when he established his own botanical garden in Auki. His vision is to create a place where local families and visitors can enjoy Malaita’s natural beauty while learning about native plants, medicinal herbs, indigenous trees, colourful flowers and wild orchids.

The garden is also being developed as a peaceful place for recreation. Branco plans to include barbecue areas, retreat spaces and mountain hiking trails where families, youth groups and tourists can relax and connect with nature.

Protecting the environment is another important part of his vision. He hopes the garden will become a safe habitat for birds by discouraging hunting and protecting their nesting areas.

Branco believes Solomon Islands has enormous potential to grow its tourism industry by protecting both its natural environment and cultural heritage.

“We are all here for a reason—to help, support and build one another so we can reach our full potential. We should always give back to our communities and help the younger generation,” he said.

Looking ahead, Branco hopes to establish Lagoon View Bungalow overlooking Langalanga Lagoon. The accommodation would welcome tourists while creating employment opportunities for local people and involving more family members in the growing tourism business.

He encourages young people to discover their talents and confidently pursue careers they truly enjoy.

“Follow your passion and identify what you love to do. Whether it’s cooking, baking, mechanics or any other skill, always believe that God will help you succeed,” he said.