BY JOY OFASIA
Every morning in 2008, a young man from Isabel Province could be seen carefully delivering stacks of newspapers to doorsteps in the streets of Honiara. That young man was Ben Bilua. Back then, few could have guessed that one day, his name would appear on the front page of those very papers.
“I was committed to my job,” Ben told SUNDAY ISLES, reflecting on his early days at Island Sun News. “Doing that job, I built an interest in writing news, and with the help of my editor at the time, I was able to learn how to write articles.”
Ben’s story is one of character, growth, and humble beginnings. Starting in the accounts and distribution department, he never let go of a growing desire to become a journalist. In 2009, that dream became a reality when he was transferred to the newsroom under the guidance of editors Presley Habru and Richard Toke.
“They shaped me into who I am now,” he said.
Over the years, Ben has written many stories, but one remains close to his heart — a report about a high school in Ranongga, Western Province, that faced a serious water shortage due to a halted project.
“I visited the Chief of Education and wrote the story. Two weeks after the article was published, pipes were sent to the school. Seeing that happen made me realize how powerful our work can be,” he recalled proudly.
Ben worked for 15 years in mainstream media with Island Sun News from 2008 to 2023. After that, he started a new career in Public Relations as the Media and Communications Officer for the Solomon Islands Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI).
Ben also spoke about his time working in the private sector, where he served as the Media and Communications Officer for the SICCI from 2023 to 2025.
“It gave me insight into how the private sector operates, and that added to the knowledge and skills I have as a journalist.”
Now, having recently returned to Island Sun, Ben feels more motivated than ever to keep serving his country through journalism.
“Looking back, I’m proud. Journalism has taken me to places I never imagined. What keeps me going is knowing that we are working for the people, and for the country.”
Ben’s roots run deep in village life, where he was raised in a Christian family and learned the values of culture and community.
“Growing up in the village helped me understand how to connect with people and tell their stories. That background gives me the ability to write stories that really impact communities,” he explained.
His commitment to journalism goes beyond just reporting news — it’s about creating change.
“We journalists in the Solomon Islands may not be highly paid, but the service we provide is important. We help shape society,” he said. “We must be committed, respectful, and eager to learn.”
Looking back on his journey, Ben feels grateful — not just for how far he’s come, but for those who helped him get there.
“I would like to thank my former editors — Priestly Habru, Richard Toke, Duran Angiki, and Jale Moala. You have shaped me to become who I am today.”
Ben believes that being a journalist in the Solomon Islands is both a challenge and a calling.
“As journalists, we must uphold ethics, be open-minded, and committed to our job, even though we are among the lowest-paid professions in the country,” he said. “Our work is crucial. We shape society, hold institutions accountable, and promote national development.”
He noted that journalism isn’t just about exposing issues, but also about highlighting progress.
“Media plays both sides of the coin — investigating and informing, but also promoting the developments in our country. We are the fourth estate. We give voice to the voiceless, and that’s always been my guiding purpose.”
Ben’s journey began with delivering newspapers early in the morning. Now, he tells important stories that help and inspire the communities he works with.
“Being a journalist has been rewarding. It took me to places I never imagined. But most importantly, it reminds me every day — I work for the people, and the country.”
His message to aspiring journalists is clear: work hard, stay committed, and remember the purpose behind the profession.
“We have a lot of opportunities — not just in mainstream media, but also in public and private sectors. If you want to serve this country, join the media. It’s not just a job, it’s a service.”
