By: Ngewakl Soaladaob
KOROR, Palau — The DOUREOR Project’s Entrepreneurial Skills Workshop will soon conclude its final session in Koror, ending a successful tour across all 16 states of Palau. The project began in January in Melekeok and is being spearheaded by Irene Olkeriil, the founder of Palau Entrepreneurs for Growth. Olkeriil established Palau’s first business incubator, DOUREOR CoWorking Spaces for Entrepreneurs, in January 2021 to address the socioeconomic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ms. Olkeriil offers her extensive experience in business administration, strategic planning, risk assessment, and legal research, along with a strong advocacy for sustainable development to the program.
The DOUREOR project aims to empower Palauan entrepreneurs with essential business skills and an entrepreneurial mindset. The workshops cover topics such as business development, financial literacy, customer service, digital literacy, time management, social impact, and understanding new tax reforms.
“Our program promotes local entrepreneurs, startups, and MSMEs by providing self-employment opportunities and training,” said Olkeriil. “An entrepreneurial lifestyle is the essence of our Palauan culture, which thrives on relationships, community, and cooperation.”
The DOUREOR Team, composed of experienced local entrepreneurs, has traveled across Palau teaching fundamental business concepts. Key team members include Ulai Teltull, founder of Keruul Consulting Company, with expertise in business, banking, investment, and healthcare program management; Eric Kloulubak, with a background in criminal justice, substance abuse counseling, and community health; Lisa Abraham-Rengechel, General Manager of Jezrrae-Rainbow retail/wholesale and founder/owner of Octo8 Consulting Services, who brings extensive experience in business development and community engagement; and Elangel Yanni Mesubed, owner of ProConsult, with skills in public relations, marketing, and international affairs.
The DOUREOR Project is supported by partnerships with organizations such as EmeralDreams Services, Palau Entrepreneurs for Growth, the Ministry of Finance, the Bureau of Revenue & Taxation, the Ministry of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism & Development, and the Bureau of Development. The initiative is funded by a grant from the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Representatives Office in the United States (TECRO) through the BELUU Innovation Grant Program managed by Grameen Foundation.
“It’s been an honor to be one of the selected few for the DOUREOR Team. Similarly, a humbling experience” says Lisa Abraham-Rengechel. “Learning everything from Digital skills, sales, taxes and social impact through fellow team members has given me the enthusiasm to remain in the private sector and learn more! Do more!”
The project aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in Palau’s entrepreneurial landscape, fostering economic growth and sustainability. The program will culminate with the official launch of the NGO, Palau Entrepreneurs for Growth, and all workshop participants will become members of the organization, which will seek funds to support entrepreneurs.