Ebony Finau Wins Two Major Awards For Online Business

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Ebony Finau, the owner and founder of Twice Is Nice, walked away with two prestigious awards at the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI) Awards 2025, marking a significant milestone in her six-year journey as a trailblazing online businesswoman.

Finau secured the Most Improved Female Award and the E-Commerce/Entrepreneurial Award, two categories she deliberately chose to honour her growth and the digital business model she pioneered in the country.


“There were three categories we could apply for, but I decided to commit to these two — Most Improved Female and E-Commerce,” she said.

A Business Born from Everyday Challenges

Finau’s business, Twice Is Nice, is an online thrift and second-hand clothing shop that operates mainly through Instagram and Facebook. With a niche market targeting women and teenage girls, the platform offers a convenient shopping experience for customers juggling work, family, and busy schedules.

“The idea came from the challenge many women face — finding time to buy clothes during busy working hours,” she explained. “So, I created a platform that allows them to shop with ease. They just comment or message, and we deliver.”

Since launching in 2019, Twice Is Nice has grown into one of the country’s most recognized online thrift stores, influencing a wave of similar businesses across Solomon Islands.

Leading the Way in E-Commerce

Finau is regarded as one of the pioneers of online thrifting in the country, having set systems and processes that many new entrepreneurs now follow.

“I believe I was one of the first to start online thrifting in Solomon Islands,” she said. “Many people have since joined, using the rules and systems we set. Even though we are competitors, I’m happy to see their dreams grow.”

Her consistency, she says, sets her apart from over 40 competitors in the space.

“The key for me is consistency. We have loyal customers from the day we started until today.”

Despite calls to open a physical shop, Finau remains committed to the online model, saying it works best for her and has proven successful.

A Journey of Faith, Growth, and Gratitude

Finau admitted she didn’t expect to win but attended the awards night with a humble mindset.

“I told myself, whether I win or not, I’ll still go. But I’m happy that my improvement and my work in e-commerce have been recognised,” she said. “Everything goes back to God.”

She also credited her mother and family for their continuous support.

“This award is for all of us,” she said.

Inspiring Other Women to Start Small and Stay Consistent

As a young woman entrepreneur, Finau encouraged other aspiring women and girls to be problem solvers.

“If you see a problem, solve it — because the solution is your business. There are many problems in Solomon Islands, so be the solution,” she advised.

Finau urged young entrepreneurs to start where they are, even with as little as $50, and to stay passionate and consistent in their journey.

“There will be ups and downs, but don’t give up. Be there with your business and show your face.”

With her double win at the YECSI Awards 2025, Ebony Finau’s story stands as a powerful inspiration to young entrepreneurs across the Solomon Islands — proving that innovation, resilience, and consistency can turn small beginnings into remarkable achievements.

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