BY SHOREYANN RAGOSO
At just 25 years old, Leah Duncan is turning her passion for baking into a growing business that is inspiring women and young girls in Gizo.
Leah, who is from Munda in the Western Province and is part Australian, is the owner of Tamtina Bakes. The name “Tamtina” comes from the Roviana language and means “a mother and child,” a name that reflects family, care and togetherness.
Leah said her love for baking started at home while watching her mother and older sister in the kitchen.
“My passion for baking started at home, watching and learning from my mum and big sister, through trial and error, and slowly falling in love with the process,” she said.
She began by baking cakes and sweet treats for family and friends. Their positive feedback and encouragement later pushed her to take baking more seriously and slowly build it into a business.
Today, her cakes and baked goods are becoming well known in Gizo, especially during birthdays, weddings and other celebrations.
“The most rewarding part of baking is seeing how my creations bring joy to people during their special moments,” Leah said. “Being part of those memories keeps me motivated.”
Beyond baking, Leah’s journey is also helping to inspire local women who are interested in starting their own small businesses. She said many women have approached her asking how she began, and she has always been willing to share advice and encouragement.
“Through my baking, I’ve been able to inspire and encourage other women to believe in their own skills,” she said.
Leah explained that she decided to turn baking into a business after realizing her skills could provide income and independence. However, the journey was not always easy.
“There were times of self-doubt and mistakes along the way, but those experiences helped build my confidence, discipline and resilience,” she shared.
Running a bakery business in Gizo also comes with challenges. Limited access to baking ingredients, equipment and regular supplies often forces her to find creative solutions.
“These challenges taught me to adapt and focus on growing slowly and sustainably,” Leah said.
She credits her family, close friends and loyal customers for helping her continue.
“They’ve supported me emotionally, helped spread the word about my business, and believed in me even when I doubted myself,” she said. “Their encouragement keeps me motivated to keep going.”
Leah started the business using her own savings and by reinvesting money from her early orders. Although she has grown steadily without outside support, she remains open to future partnerships.
She also offered advice to young women and girls in Western Province.
“Start with what you have, believe in yourself, and don’t wait for perfection,” Leah said. “It’s okay to start small and grow step by step. As women, we are capable of building businesses while lifting our communities.”
