Alma Napo Success story after attending WEE Expo 2025

"Meet Alma Napo from Buang village, a local passionate entrepreneur behind Ari Ani Health Products! Alma's journey began with a traditional approach to wellness, inspired by her roots. As a proud local farmer, Alma runs her small business, harvesting local honey from her Beehives and manually processing fresh sugarcane to make raw sugar grains. She uses a unique, manual method to crush sugar cane, preserving its natural goodness. This old-school technique ensures her products retain their potent benefits.

During the Women Economic Empowerment Expo, hosted in June 2025, Alma’s vibrant stall caught the attention of SME Corporation (SMEC) representatives. Her array of homemade honey and sugarcane products showcased her creativity and dedication. The SMEC team was impressed by the quality and uniqueness of her products, as well as her inspiring stories.‘’We're interested in supporting women-led businesses like yours," said Nathan Timo, Director of SME Growth & Development of SMEC. "Let's discuss potential opportunities for growth and development. "Alma's face lit up with excitement as she shared her vision with the SMEC team.

The encounter marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership, empowering Alma to take her business to new heights. Three months on Alma Napo's eyes sparkled with gratitude as she accepted the sugarcane crusher from Nathan Timo- Director of SME Growth & Development of SME Corporation, Tony Darlie- Acting Managing Director of SME Corporation and the Owner/Manager of Tok Stret Consulting Ltd Mrs. Julianne Terry Byrne at the Lae SME Incubator Hub.

This game-changing tool would empower her to process fresh sugarcane into high-quality products. For fellow entrepreneurs, Alma's story serves as a reminder that support and resources are available. She urges others to tap into initiatives like the Lae SME Incubator Hub and its programs, where innovation and collaboration can turn visions into reality. With the right tools and partnerships, small businesses can grow, contributing to a thriving economy and brighter futures. The sugarcane crusher is more than just a machine – it represents the power of community, innovation, and determination.

Alma's journey inspires others to pursue their passions and leverage available resources to achieve success. "From farm to table, Alma's dedication to quality and sustainability shines through in every bottle with her apiary and sugarcane products. Join the Ari Ani family and experience the power of nature, crafted with love.