7th March 2014
Joyce Konofilia’s perspective on studying in Australia.
Joyce Konofilia is the owner of Solomon Host, a local business which offers tourism training and consultancy services for Solomon Island government agencies and businesses.
Joyce established the business 5 years ago but looked to an Australian scholarship to build the skills she needed to make it a success.
In 2011 Joyce was awarded an Australia Leadership Award Scholarship to study a Masters in International Hotel and Tourism Management at the University of Queensland.
During her time at the University, Joyce was actively involved in the University’s School of Tourism Advisory Committee where she worked with other student leaders to develop new curriculums. She was also instrumental in reviving the Solomon Islands Brisbane Students Association, where she was the Vice President of the Association.
In recognition for her leadership roles both at the University and in the Solomon Islands community in Brisbane, Joyce was awarded the Prime Minister’s Pacific Australia Award in 2012 to undertake leadership activities.
“Under the Prime Minister’s Pacific Australia Award, I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister and other high calibre Australian leaders,” said Joyce.
“When I came back, I felt that I had something to offer, that I could lead, make an impact and contribute to the tourism industry and the country as a whole.”
The business woman also encourages students, especially women, to pursue studies in Australia.
“As women we have a lot of potential to excel, we just have to work hard and focus and we will get there.”