Reflection on My First Day Back at Work – Lessons in Project Risk and Management

By Ivory waki / Solvoice
Today marked my return to work after the festive season and the beginning of 2026. I did not expect the day to bring such an eye-opening experience — one that made me smile, reflect, and learn. I was confronted by five frustrated workers from the appointed contractor for the JCPU Administration Building project. One of the workers had just been released from temporary detention at the police station after the contractor reported them. You can imagine the emotional state of someone who had just come out of detention — stressed, confused, and upset. I took time to talk with them and quickly noticed several failures in the current project management that contributed to this situation. I believe these setbacks are rooted in the early stages of the project, particularly in the following areas: 1. Procurement system of the project 2. Planning phase, including costing and scheduling 3. Lack of written agreements between the main contractor and subcontractors 4. Incompetence and poor leadershi...
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A Typical Sunday in Honiara

By Ivory waki / Solvoice


Sundays in Honiara always have a different rhythm. The air feels softer, the city slows down, and the sea calls quietly from the coast. After church, families pack their coolers, grab mats, and head to the beaches — it’s our little weekend tradition. For me, there’s no better way to end the week than dipping my toes into the warm ocean and breathing in that salty island breeze.


By midday, Kakabona Beach is already alive. Kids run barefoot and naked on the sand, shouting over the sound of the waves. Mats on the sand or sitting on the wooden tables, while the smell of BBQ fish and chicken and cassava drifts through the air as we share the food and looking out on the rolling waves. The sunlight glitters on the sea, and you can almost taste the salt in every laugh and splash.


I joined my cousins and Aunt for laughter and jokes as the children are shouting and swimming in the waves. The water was just right — cool enough to chase away the afternoon heat. Between swims, we shared stories and food. There’s something about these simple moments that makes the island feel more alive.


As the sun began to fade over Iron Bottom Sound, the sky turned gold and pink. We packed our things slowly, not ready for the day to end. Sitting there, I realized how these quiet Sundays keep us grounded. No fancy plans — just family, laughter, and the sea. That’s what a typical Sunday in Honiara feels like — simple, joyful, and full of heart.


💬What are your thoughts? I would love to hear your voice in the comment section below.👇

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