Mentors
Emily O’Steen is a Business Advisor at the Kosrae Small Business Development Center (Kosrae SBDC), where she assist local entrepreneurs in starting, managing, and expanding their businesses. With expertise in business planning, marketing, and financial management, Ms. O’Steen provides personalized support to help clients build strong, sustainable ventures. Her work plays a vital role in strengthening small businesses and promoting long-term economic growth in the Kosrae community.
Ltelatk Harriet Fritz, also known as Lte, founded WillBSoil Business Services in 2021 to support Palau's micro-enterprises. At WillBSoil, Lte offers micro-business owners management support like learning to create advertisements on Facebook or Google, harness the power of Google's online tools for businesses, and recordkeeping skills. Lte is a member of the Palau Chamber of Commerce, serving six years on the board of directors and as president in 2023. In 2019, Lte joined the Palau Organic Growers Association and has been supporting women taro farmers to learn about The Pacific Organic Standard and attaining organic certification under the Participatory Guarantee System. With Palau's first win in the regional competition last year, Lte is excited to join as a mentor to support this year's participants in the 2025 Start Up Micronesia Weekend.
SKILLER K. JACKSON
Service Center Director/Business Advisor
Kosrae Small Business Development Center (Kosrae SBDC)
P.O. Box 1
Tofol, Kosrae FM 96944
Phone: (H): 691-370-7820
Phone: (W): 691-370-2751
Email: [email protected]
Objective
Reference by PISBDCN
Education
1997, Bachelor of Arts, University of the South Pacific, Suva Fiji
1990, DipTESL, Victoria University, Wellington New Zealand
1987, Associate of Arts, College of Micronesia, Kolonia Pohnpei
1983, Diploma, Kosrae High School, Kosrae State FSM 96944
Certificates
Certified Small Business Advisor, Pacific Islands SBDC Network, May 2017
Certified Facilitator, Profit Mastery Program, Pacific Islands SBDC Network, November 2008
Certified Small Business Counselor, 2006
Certificate in Business Management Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific, JICA, 1999
Work Experience
2002-Present: Center Director/Certified Small Business Advisor
Kosrae Small Business Development Center, Kosrae State Government
2015-2019: GEF Small Grants Program (FSM) State Focal Point, Kosrae State FM 96944
1997-2002: Business Development Specialist
Kosrae Business Development Assistance Center, MEDC Program, Kosrae State Government
Other Duties
2017- 2019, Chairman, Kosrae Conservation & Safety Organization (KCSO), Tofol, Kosrae State FM 96944
2016- 2019, Chairman, Kosrae State Scholarship Board, Dept of Education, Kosrae State FM 96944
2017-2019, Chairman, School Improvement Team, Malem Elementary School, Kosrae State FM 96944
Skills
Computer Skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, Access Internet)
Operate Office Equipments
Write-up & Review Business Proposals and Financial Statements
Write-up & Review Concept proposal & Grant proposals
Hobbies
Gardening, Fishing, Basketball, Tennis
Service Center Director/Business Advisor
Kosrae Small Business Development Center (Kosrae SBDC)
P.O. Box 1
Tofol, Kosrae FM 96944
Phone: (H): 691-370-7820
Phone: (W): 691-370-2751
Email: [email protected]
Objective
Reference by PISBDCN
Education
1997, Bachelor of Arts, University of the South Pacific, Suva Fiji
1990, DipTESL, Victoria University, Wellington New Zealand
1987, Associate of Arts, College of Micronesia, Kolonia Pohnpei
1983, Diploma, Kosrae High School, Kosrae State FSM 96944
Certificates
Certified Small Business Advisor, Pacific Islands SBDC Network, May 2017
Certified Facilitator, Profit Mastery Program, Pacific Islands SBDC Network, November 2008
Certified Small Business Counselor, 2006
Certificate in Business Management Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific, JICA, 1999
Work Experience
2002-Present: Center Director/Certified Small Business Advisor
Kosrae Small Business Development Center, Kosrae State Government
2015-2019: GEF Small Grants Program (FSM) State Focal Point, Kosrae State FM 96944
1997-2002: Business Development Specialist
Kosrae Business Development Assistance Center, MEDC Program, Kosrae State Government
Other Duties
2017- 2019, Chairman, Kosrae Conservation & Safety Organization (KCSO), Tofol, Kosrae State FM 96944
2016- 2019, Chairman, Kosrae State Scholarship Board, Dept of Education, Kosrae State FM 96944
2017-2019, Chairman, School Improvement Team, Malem Elementary School, Kosrae State FM 96944
Skills
Computer Skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, Access Internet)
Operate Office Equipments
Write-up & Review Business Proposals and Financial Statements
Write-up & Review Concept proposal & Grant proposals
Hobbies
Gardening, Fishing, Basketball, Tennis
Kenneth Hizon
With a decade of owning his own business, Ken Hizon understands what it takes to be a thriving entrepreneur. Ken Hizon also possesses extensive experience in business management and supervision, particularly within the Information Technology (IT) field at several major financial institutions. His career trajectory demonstrates a steady progression from technical expertise to leadership roles with a focus on security and compliance.
With a decade of owning his own business, Ken Hizon understands what it takes to be a thriving entrepreneur. Ken Hizon also possesses extensive experience in business management and supervision, particularly within the Information Technology (IT) field at several major financial institutions. His career trajectory demonstrates a steady progression from technical expertise to leadership roles with a focus on security and compliance.
Jarneec Halsey
Jarneec Halsey is the founder and CEO of Peto’s Journey LLC, a holding company that encompasses publishing, e-commerce/pop-up sales, and non-profit work. She also works as a Business Advisor and the Bank of Guam Women in Business Program Coordinator for Guam’s Small Business Development Center, where she supports aspiring entrepreneurs. Born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, Jarneec is a devoted wife, mother, and advocate for community development. As a military wife, she connects with both the military and local communities, fostering relationships and offering support. Her personal journey, shaped by the grief of losing her younger brother to Sickle Cell Anemia, inspired her to write children's books aimed at raising awareness about health issues such as Sickle Cell, Autism, and ADHD. Jarneec is receiving her Masters in Business Administration early this year, further fueling her passion for learning. With a list of certifications and awards, her multilingual background and understanding of different cultures help her connect within her community. Her commitment to education, women in business, and diverse communities drives her work, including her efforts to donate books and collaborate with schools and hospitals globally. Jarneec’s resilience in overcoming challenges in publishing and graphic design exemplifies her passion for empowering others and fostering community connection.
Jarneec Halsey is the founder and CEO of Peto’s Journey LLC, a holding company that encompasses publishing, e-commerce/pop-up sales, and non-profit work. She also works as a Business Advisor and the Bank of Guam Women in Business Program Coordinator for Guam’s Small Business Development Center, where she supports aspiring entrepreneurs. Born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, Jarneec is a devoted wife, mother, and advocate for community development. As a military wife, she connects with both the military and local communities, fostering relationships and offering support. Her personal journey, shaped by the grief of losing her younger brother to Sickle Cell Anemia, inspired her to write children's books aimed at raising awareness about health issues such as Sickle Cell, Autism, and ADHD. Jarneec is receiving her Masters in Business Administration early this year, further fueling her passion for learning. With a list of certifications and awards, her multilingual background and understanding of different cultures help her connect within her community. Her commitment to education, women in business, and diverse communities drives her work, including her efforts to donate books and collaborate with schools and hospitals globally. Jarneec’s resilience in overcoming challenges in publishing and graphic design exemplifies her passion for empowering others and fostering community connection.
Keynote Speakers
Dr. Roseann Jones
Dean & Keynote Speaker
University of Guam, School of Business and Public Administration
Regional
Anita Borja Enriquez, D.B.A.
Anita Borja Enriquez serves as the 12th President of the University of Guam, a role she has embraced with a vision for growth, innovation, and academic excellence. With over decades of experience in leadership positions at the University, including her previous tenure as Senior Vice President and Provost, Dr. Enriquez has been instrumental in shaping the institution’s trajectory.
During her time as Dean of the School of Business and Public Administration, she distinguished herself by securing multiple federal grants and corporate sponsorships, leading to the establishment of key initiatives such as the Pacific Center for Economic Initiatives, the Guam Procurement Technical Assistance Center (APEX Accelerator), and the Guam Veterans Business Outreach Center. These programs not only advanced economic development in the region but also enriched the educational landscape, aligning with her commitment to creating relevant public value.
Dr. Enriquez has consistently championed innovative initiatives to enhance student success. Her recent efforts have focused on advancing workforce development through impactful student internships across various industries. Recognizing the critical need for a skilled workforce in emerging fields, she has spearheaded the introduction of new degree programs in cybersecurity, data science, and library science. These programs aim to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market, while also supporting the diversification of Guam's economy.
In addition to her administrative accomplishments, Dr. Enriquez actively participates in numerous boards and commissions that reflect her commitment to community and educational advancement. She currently serves as President of Guampedia, Pacific Basin Commissioner of the WASC Senior College and University Commission, founding Vice President of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, founding member of the Guam Museum Foundation Board, and Chair of the Guam Land Use Commission.
A business practitioner, scholar, and economic development advocate, Dr. Enriquez holds advanced degrees in business administration, international business, and marketing. Her multifaceted experience and dedication to education position her as a dynamic leader at the forefront of transforming the University of Guam into a hub of innovation and academic achievement, fostering a brighter future for students and the community alike.
Anita Borja Enriquez serves as the 12th President of the University of Guam, a role she has embraced with a vision for growth, innovation, and academic excellence. With over decades of experience in leadership positions at the University, including her previous tenure as Senior Vice President and Provost, Dr. Enriquez has been instrumental in shaping the institution’s trajectory.
During her time as Dean of the School of Business and Public Administration, she distinguished herself by securing multiple federal grants and corporate sponsorships, leading to the establishment of key initiatives such as the Pacific Center for Economic Initiatives, the Guam Procurement Technical Assistance Center (APEX Accelerator), and the Guam Veterans Business Outreach Center. These programs not only advanced economic development in the region but also enriched the educational landscape, aligning with her commitment to creating relevant public value.
Dr. Enriquez has consistently championed innovative initiatives to enhance student success. Her recent efforts have focused on advancing workforce development through impactful student internships across various industries. Recognizing the critical need for a skilled workforce in emerging fields, she has spearheaded the introduction of new degree programs in cybersecurity, data science, and library science. These programs aim to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market, while also supporting the diversification of Guam's economy.
In addition to her administrative accomplishments, Dr. Enriquez actively participates in numerous boards and commissions that reflect her commitment to community and educational advancement. She currently serves as President of Guampedia, Pacific Basin Commissioner of the WASC Senior College and University Commission, founding Vice President of the Guam Women’s Chamber of Commerce, founding member of the Guam Museum Foundation Board, and Chair of the Guam Land Use Commission.
A business practitioner, scholar, and economic development advocate, Dr. Enriquez holds advanced degrees in business administration, international business, and marketing. Her multifaceted experience and dedication to education position her as a dynamic leader at the forefront of transforming the University of Guam into a hub of innovation and academic achievement, fostering a brighter future for students and the community alike.
Frederick Granillo
Frederick Granillo, Network Director of the Pacific Islands SBDC Network, brings over three decades of experience in business consulting, finance, accounting, and management. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration-Accounting and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), Fred leverages his expertise to guide and support aspiring entrepreneurs across the region. At SBDC, he leads a dedicated team of 18 professionals throughout Micronesia, fostering a collaborative environment focused on helping entrepreneurs launch, grow, and succeed in their ventures.
Frederick Granillo, Network Director of the Pacific Islands SBDC Network, brings over three decades of experience in business consulting, finance, accounting, and management. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration-Accounting and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), Fred leverages his expertise to guide and support aspiring entrepreneurs across the region. At SBDC, he leads a dedicated team of 18 professionals throughout Micronesia, fostering a collaborative environment focused on helping entrepreneurs launch, grow, and succeed in their ventures.