Sam's transformation as a humble community leader
In the lush, mountainous region of Buin, life was beautiful but challenging. For Sam Sikarau, a devoted father of five, four boys and one girl, the dream of building a sustainable livelihood was always at the forefront of his mind. Sam’s vision was clear; he wanted to become a successful cacao farmer. But there was one major obstacle: cacao simply did not thrive in the cold, high-altitude climate of Buin.
Rather than surrender to circumstances, Sam made a bold and life-changing decision. He relocated his family to Laluai Community, a place known for its fertile soil and favorable conditions for cacao farming. “The reason I came here is because of cacao,” Sam recalls. “Where I come from, cacao does not grow well, so I relocated myself here just to be a cacao farmer.”
Starting over was not easy. Sam purchased a block of land and began cultivating cacao, pouring his energy and hope into the soil. At first, progress was slow; he managed to produce only one or two small bags of cacao. But even in those early days, Sam held onto his vision. He believed that with persistence, his efforts would bear fruit.
Then, in 2020, an opportunity arrived that would accelerate his journey and transform his life. World Vision, with support from the New Zealand Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), introduced the Savings for Transformation (S4T) program in his community through local leader Philip Magui. The concept immediately captured Sam’s interest. He saw it as a chance not only to save but to learn, grow, and invest in his future.
Sam joined the initiative and formed his own savings group called Lobiru. For a year, he and his group contributed diligently, building a foundation of trust and financial discipline. Then came the next breakthrough: World Vision provided training on the benefits of loans and how they could be used to create income-generating opportunities.
Sam was the first in his group to apply for a loan. With his first loan, he purchased a 6.5 kva generator, a critical asset that opened new possibilities. After successfully repaying that loan, he applied for another and bought a compressor, launching a small tyre repair business. This was the beginning of a new chapter, one that would redefine Sam’s life and inspire his entire community.
Sam’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. Seeing the success of his tyre service, he expanded into a service station, starting with 1,000 litres of diesel, which is five drums in total. This venture provided a vital service to the community, reducing the need for long trips to distant towns for fuel. As his businesses flourished, Sam diversified further, venturing into poultry farming to raise chickens. Each step was a calculated move, fueled by the knowledge and confidence gained through World Vision’s training.
“When World Vision first came and introduced S4T and marketing modules, they challenged us,” Sam says. “They predicted that if we stayed loyal, within five years after the project ends, we would see a big difference and become successful.” Today, looking back over the past five years, Sam proudly reflects: “I’ve done well. I’m settled and enjoying life. Thanks to World Vision and the support from the New Zealand Government through MFAT, this is possible.”
Sam’s transformation is remarkable. From a struggling farmer producing a few bags of cacao, he now operates a thriving service station, a tyre repair shop, and a trade store that supplies frozen goods to the community. These businesses have not only improved his family’s standard of living but also created opportunities for others. His ventures provide essential services, reduce travel costs for neighbors, and stimulate local economic activity.
Yet, Sam remains committed to his cacao farm, ensuring his original dream continues to grow. This year marks the fifth shareout cycle for his savings group, and it is the highest shareout so far. Sam proudly shares that the group now has 24 members, and the amount distributed this cycle was the largest ever recorded. For security reasons, the exact figure remains confidential, but the achievement speaks volumes about the group’s success and discipline.
Among the many inspiring moments during the shareout, one stood out for Sam. His youngest son, Elton, just 10 years old and in Grade 2, is also a member of the savings group. Elton received K1,500 during the shareout, a sum he plans to use for his school fees and supplies. What makes this remarkable is Elton’s mindset. Instead of relying on his parents, he took the initiative to save every payment he earned from small tasks to support his education. “He doesn’t want to put a burden on us,” Sam says proudly. “He saves everything for his school needs.”
This simple act reflects the deeper impact of the program, not just financial empowerment, but a cultural shift toward responsibility and planning for the future. It shows how knowledge and habits can be passed down to the next generation, creating a cycle of progress.
“The knowledge and skills World Vision taught us are life-changing,” Sam says. “We will continue.” For Sam, these lessons have gone beyond business; they have shaped his values, his family’s future, and his community’s outlook. The S4T program did more than provide financial tools; it instilled confidence, discipline, and a sense of possibility. Combined with marketing and business training, these skills empowered Sam to think beyond farming and explore new ventures.
As the World Vision project concludes, Sam is optimistic. He knows that the journey does not end here. The savings group will continue, and the businesses he built will keep growing. His vision now extends beyond personal success; he wants to inspire others to take bold steps, embrace opportunities, and believe in their potential.
“I reflect back to the last five years,” Sam says with pride. “I’ve done well. I’m settled and enjoying life. Thanks to World Vision and the New Zealand Government through MFAT, this is possible.”
Sam’s story is not just about financial success; it’s about transformation, empowerment, and the ripple effect of knowledge. It is a testament to what can happen when vision meets opportunity, and when communities come together to support change. Thanks to the partnership between World Vision and the New Zealand Government through MFAT, Sam’s journey is proof that sustainable development is possible when people are equipped with the right tools and support.
