At work with ... janine bowmaker
Growing up in the northern New South Wales town of Mullumbimby , Janine Bowmaker got her first taste of Japan at age 16 .
“ Our family did not pass the financial criteria required in those days to be a host family , so I encouraged my best friend ’ s family to apply . For the next six weeks , I fell into the surreal world of Japan , learning about the culture , the food and the language .”
“ Needless to say , I was hooked ! I knew right then , that this was my future .”
The next few years , Janine dedicated to building her skills . “ I spent two years in Japan learning the language ; studied Travel and Tourism at TAFE , Sales and Marketing fundamentals from a boss , and I also gained hands-on tourism experience on the Gold Coast .”
It was in this role that the idea of her own homestay company came to her .
“ I would deal with established Homestay companies . Something was lacking . All along , I felt I could do
better - create better programs and focus on increasing the experience for the students through better care .”
And that ’ s where Banora International Group was born . “ It was a bit presumptuous of me , really , and it was far harder than I ever imagined . But here we are , now widely known as the No 1 Study Tour company in QLD , with my sights set on claiming that title Australia wide .”
On any given day , the Banora team are working on placing over 100 students in homes , quoting for future business , creating new ideas and programs , and communicating with our clients .
Janine attributes so much of Banora ’ s successes to her team . “ There is no such thing as a typical day in our office . Fortunately , my staff are fantastic - flexible , and fast thinkers .” laughs Janine . “ It ’ s a hive of activity and lately I call it ‘ The Vortex ’. I have to stay home if I wish to get any management tasks done .”
In March , Banora will celebrate its 21st birthday - an enormous landmark for any business .
“ There have been many ups and downs - Swine Flu , Tsunamis , Earthquakes , 9 / 11 , and cyclones which created havoc . I considered giving up often . Everyday technology creates hindrances but we somehow get through it . Coffee and wine are my friend !”
Janine is currently working under the federal government ’ s Entrepreneurs ’ Program , to ensure the company is ready to manage the numerous opportunities presented to it .
“ It ’ s very exciting for the business , but on a personal level , I am hoping to find more balance . I am still extremely passionate about the limitless opportunities , but life is short and family is definitely my priority .”
The homestay experience can create lifelong friendships I count some of my Japanese clients as close friends .”
26 | www . oasismagazine . com . au