South Pacific Business Development

Luapene currently serves as the General Manager of SPBD Samoa and is the first Samoan to hold this top post.  She brings more than 30 years of professional experience to her role. Luapene has been with SPBD Samoa for the past 17 years, most recently serving as the Finance and Administration Manager, and has contributed immensely to achieving the vision and mission of the company over the years.  She is a member of the National Financial Inclusion Taskforce in Samoa led by the Central Bank of Samoa and a member of the Community Economic Development Subsector committee led by the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development.  She has been a member of the Samoa Institute of Accountants for more than 17 years.    Prior to SPBD, Luapene worked at the Secretariat of Pacific Regional Environment Program (SPREP) as well as in the finance departments of various government corporations.

Luapene received her Diploma in Accounting from the National University of Samoa, and she is working towards the completion of her Bachelor in Commerce.  She has received numerous certificates in human resources, accounting, risk management, strategic planning, IFRS and forensic accounting, as well as microfinance best practices from local, regional and internationally recognized institutions.  She also serves as a leader in the women’s society and in her church community.