FRANK Ada, Triple J Saipan’s human resources director, was named the Saipan Chamber of Commerce 2024 Business Person of the Year on Saturday, Jan. 25 at Crowne Plaza.
Ada was nominated for the award alongside Donna Krum of Paradise Dental Spa, Gol Corpuz of Century Insurance Company, and Joe Guerrero of Transcends LLC, which does business as Naked Fish bar.
In his acceptance speech during the chamber’s Business Person of the Year Gala, Ada praised the work environment at Triple J.
“Fifteen years ago, I went to a job interview and I met Mr. Robert H. Jones. Thank you for taking a chance on me. We had better luck tonight than this morning when we went fishing,” Ada joked. “Mr. Jones is not only my boss, my friend [who is] just … a very towering figure in my life in the last 15 years, and continues to be and continues to teach each and every one of us at Triple J.”
Ada said the award reflected “the collective efforts of my amazing team, my HR team and Triple J corporate office.”
“Together we have focused on creating a culture that values collaboration,” he added.
He said there is a need for collaboration in the CNMI, and that as an HR director, he works in an industry that must focus on “growth and embracing all people.”
“As HR director I’ve always believed that our people are our greatest assets. That’s one of the most important lessons Mr. Jones has told everyone. This award underscores the importance of investing in our workforce and fostering an environment where everyone can succeed and thrive. I am proud of the initiatives we implemented that prioritize employee well-being and development,” Ada said.
Other winners
Also honored were Marianas Press as the Trailblazing Startup awardee; the Northern Marianas Sports Association as the Non-profit of the Year; Island Training Solutions as the Chamber Member of the Year; Paul Guerrero of IT&E as the Emerging Leader Star awardee; CNMI Transit as the Agency Star awardee; and Plumeria Steakhouse as Small Business of the Year.
Joe Guerrero, who will remain as president of the the nine-member board of directors, was installed together with the other officers of the board: Joshua Wise, vice president; Janice Tenorio, treasurer; and Ron Smith, secretary, and directors Alex Sablan, Nicole Babauta, John Z. Arroyo, Brad Ruszala, and Velma Palacios.
‘Ultimate goal’
In his address, Joe Guerrero said the chamber will “continue to advocate for our business community, prepare and develop a skilled workforce, and [share] our thoughtful ideas and solutions to policy makers and government leaders.”
He said the chamber and the government will sometimes disagree, but that they still share the “ultimate goal” of a “stronger CNMI, a robust private sector that creates meaningful job opportunities for our people, and a higher quality of life for ourselves and the next generation.”
“Your Saipan chamber is ready to collaborate with all stakeholders,” Guerrero said. “We’re committed to rebuilding trust and crafting a unified economic plan that benefits us all. We are ready to take bold action, pushing beyond first base and making it all the way to home plate ensuring that the tide rises for every sakman and not just a few.”
He said through collaboration, business leaders can shape the future of their employees, companies, and the CNMI.
“Let us embrace collaboration and collective responsibility. When we unite in trust and respect, we unlock the power to share ideas resources and support that elevates us all,” he said.
He closed his speech by encouraging chamber members to “embrace new technologies and actively explore fresh, innovative ideas.”
He also urged them to “commit to giving back to the community” even if the economy is “poor.”
“In these times we must remember that our success is intertwined with the well-being of those around us,” he said. “By investing in local initiatives, supporting CNMI health and education, and championing sustainability, we can create a legacy that extends far beyond the walls of our businesses and networks. The future of the Marianas is ours to shape. For your dedication to your businesses, your passion for your work, and your unwavering commitment to the CNMI and our community: Si Yu’us Ma’ase and Gilisow.”
Frank Ada, the Saipan Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year, delivers his acceptance speech.
Frank Ada, center, is the 2024 Saipan Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year.
Triple J Saipan Chair and CEO Robert Jones congratulates Frank Ada.
The Saipan Chamber of Commerce board members: Joe Ada, Joshua Wise, Janice Tenorio, Ron Smith, Alex Sablan, Velma Palacios, John Arroyo, Brad Ruszala, and Nicole Babauta.
Members of the business community gathered at Crowne Plaza for the 2024 Saipan Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year event.
The Chamber Member of the Year is Island Training Solutions.
Saipan Chamber of Commerce President Joe Guerrero delivers his remarks.
The Northern Marianas Sports Association is the 2024 Non-profit of the Year.
Paul Guerrero of IT&E is the 2024 Emerging Leader Star awardee.
Plumeria Steakhouse is the 2024 Small Business of the Year.
Marianas Press is the Trailblazing Startup awardee.
