From Job Seeker to Job Creator: Talie Hong’s Entrepreneurship Journey

Just three years ago, Talie Hong was searching for employment. Today, she is running her own business and helping others take their first steps into entrepreneurship—demonstrating how determination and initiative can transform challenges into opportunity.

Talie is the founder of TJH Consultancy, a small business that assists individuals and organisations in navigating administrative processes. Her services include business registration, tax documentation, bank account facilitation, and other essential paperwork that often becomes a barrier for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Talie Joy Hong, founder of TJH Consultancy, started as a receptionist and now runs a thriving business.

Her motivation to start the business came from seeing how many people struggle with formal systems.

“Some people have great ideas or want to start something on their own, but they struggle with paperwork and administration,” Talie said.

Through her consultancy, she provides support with passport applications, birth certificates, personal and business bank accounts, citizenship enquiries, general enquiries on behalf of clients overseas, new business registration, Tax Identification Number (TIN) applications, business visas for foreigners, and association registrations.

By offering these services, Talie is not only running a business but also helping others create their own making her a job creator in more ways than one.

A Journey of Growth and Determination

Talie’s journey into entrepreneurship began long before she launched her business. After not completing Form Six, she entered the workforce at the age of 20 as a receptionist. Over time, her commitment and work ethic helped her progress into more senior roles, where she gained valuable experience in customer service and business operations.

Her last role was with Solomon Islands Breweries Limited, where she worked for seven years and rose to the position of Customer Service Manager. The skills she developed in customer service, sales, and marketing laid the foundation for her future business.

However, after a period of unemployment, Talie made a bold decision, to stop searching for opportunities and start creating them.

More than a year ago, she established TJH Consultancy, turning her experience and insight into a service that now supports others.

Overcoming Challenges

Starting a business was not easy. Talie faced several challenges, including a lack of formal business training, limited financial support, and the absence of mentorship.

“There was no mentor to guide me and no financial support,” she said.

She also encountered operational challenges, particularly when coordinating with different organisations to complete client processes. Despite these obstacles, Talie remained focused on her goals.

“It is my passion and dream that keep me moving forward,” she said.

The Power of Networking

Talie is also a member of the Young Entrepreneurs Council Solomon Islands (YECSI), which connects and supports young business owners. She credits the network with helping her build valuable relationships and gain exposure to new opportunities.

For Talie, networking is an essential part of entrepreneurship, opening doors, sharing knowledge, and building confidence.

Inspiring Others to Take the First Step

Talie hopes her journey from job seeker to job creator will inspire other young people in the Solomon Islands to take initiative and explore entrepreneurship.

“Don’t stay in your own corner,” she advises. “Go out there and look for opportunities. Connect with the right people, build networks, and learn to listen, everyone has something valuable to share.”

As youth unemployment continues to be a challenge, Talie believes entrepreneurship offers a practical and empowering solution. However, she also emphasises the need for stronger support systems.

With greater investment from government and the private sector, particularly in mentorship, training, and start-up support, more young people can turn their ideas into sustainable businesses.

Talie Hong’s journey reminds young people that with determination, resilience, and the right mindset, it is possible to move from seeking opportunities to creating them, not just for themselves, but for others as well.