Australia Awards are shaping the next generation of leaders in Solomon Islands and across the Pacific, and Atenasi Ata is a shining example.
From marine science to law and sustainable development, her journey demonstrates how Australia Awards equip individuals with the skills, networks, and confidence to make a real impact in their communities and beyond.
“I like to think about my formal qualifications, and my experience and skills as part of my ‘toolbox’. I’m always looking into my toolbox to work out what is needed for the situation at hand,” Atenasi said.
An Australia Awards Women Leading and Influencing (WLI) alumna, Atenasi joined the Women’s Development Leadership Program while completing her Master of Law and Development at the University of Melbourne.
The program gave her the knowledge, leadership skills, and regional networks to navigate complex development challenges and take on senior roles that influence both local and regional progress.
From 2018 to 2020 Atenasi served as Chief Executive Officer of the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
In this role, she strengthened public-private partnerships and advocated for policies that supported sustainable economic growth.
Her leadership was particularly critical during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she helped the private sector navigate unprecedented challenges by ensuring that their concerns were effectively communicated to government.
Beyond national borders, Atenasi contributed significantly to development across the Pacific.
As Global Coordinator for Pacific Trade Invest (PTI), she played a central role in establishing the network’s Independent Advisory Board and developing its first joint strategic plan.
Working with UN Women Atenasi helped strengthen the capacity of NGOs in both Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands to deliver sustainable development initiatives across the region.
Currently, Atenasi works as an analyst with the Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative, driving women’s economic empowerment—a critical area for inclusive growth in Pacific communities.
By combining formal education, practical experience, and leadership development opportunities, Australia Awards alumni like Atenasi are shaping the future of communities, economies, and development across Solomon Islands and the wider Pacific region.