Ruth Amos

Chief Executive Officer

• Post Graduate Diploma (Natural Products Chemistry)
•   BSc (Chemistry)
• Cert. Lab. Quality Management (NZQC)
• Cert. IV in Training and Assessment (APTC)

Ruth oversees the general administration of the different sections of the VBS with a focus on the continual strengthening of the three main pillars of the VBS which are: standardization, conformity assessment and metrology.

Beverly Nishai Marango

Laboratory Technician

• Foundation Science, University of the South Pacific
• Cert. Lab. Quality Management (NZQC)

Beverly manages the daily operations of the laboratory and all routine testing, and is currently working on implementing the ISO17025 laboratory management system in the laboratory.

Karina Nwango

Product Development Officer

• Bachelor of Science (Food Technology)
• Cert. IV in Training and Assessment (APTC)

Karina’s job is to develop new products from local root crops, fruits and vegetables with an aim to reducing the reliance of rural communities on imported foods through training in food processing and food preservation of locally available foods for food security and revenue generation.

Zealda Timbaci

Administration and Finance Officer

• HRM Fundamental & Planning

Zealda looks after the administration and finances of the VBS.  She takes care of the organization and logistics of workshops, Board meetings, and the day-to-day running of the office.

Tina Soaki Laau

Senior Food Technologist

• Masters in Professional Studies (Food Technology)
• Bachelor of Science (Food Technology)
• Certificate IV Training and Assessment (APTC)

Tina looks after the Product Development Section.  The product development section has been assisting local processing companies in HACCP certification preparation, food processing and preservation training, and is part of the development and drafting of the Codex Kava Standard.  

Steven Una Toara

Driver & Administration Support Officer

• Certificate of completion: Induction Course for Drivers

Steven takes care of the daily office errands and assists in some administrative activities.  He also maintains the office and office grounds and small maintenance jobs around the office.

Rangkon Berangben

Assistant Laboratory technician

• Foundation Science, University of the South Pacific
• Global Health Certificate of Completion: Antenatal Care

Rangkon assists in the laboratory in carrying out routine tests for kava, dried cocoa beans, virgin coconut oil, microbial test and other laboratory duties as required.