Growing from recording videos on a second-hand phone to becoming a leading property valuer and social media influencer in Papua New Guinea is a story of grit and purpose.
Theodore Tei, widely known as KAIR BII NEM, captures this journey with honesty and heart.
“When I started recording videos on my second-hand phone, I had no clear roadmap, only faith, purpose, and a dream that ordinary Papua New Guineans could rise if they believed in themselves,” he shares. “My biggest struggle wasn’t financial; it was self-doubt. I often questioned whether people would take me seriously… People said, ‘Em husat bai harim yu? You’re just another Facebook man. ’ But deep down, I knew my message was bigger than their opinions.”
His story teaches resilience. “Those quiet nights editing videos alone taught me emotional strength that no classroom could ever teach.”
A Multi-Dimensional Purpose
Theodore’s breadth of work—from real estate valuation to digital content creation and local filmmaking—reflects deeper dimensions of his identity. “All my work connects to one mission: empowerment, especially of youths,” he explains. “Real estate teaches me about ownership and value creation. Content creation awakens ideas among youth who think success is reserved for a few. Acting brings out the storyteller in me—people are moved by stories, not statistics.”
He describes himself as a builder, voice, and bridge, showing that “even a village boy can change lives using modern tools if he believes in himself and God.”
Redefining Success in Dark Times
A pivotal moment came during twelve months of unemployment amid COVID-19: “It was dark, no income, no direction. I planted a pawpaw garden to survive. That small act of faith changed everything.” From selling pawpaws, he founded Yaliingu Valuers, bought his first car, and now runs multiple businesses with an office and studio.
“I realized success is not about the size of your office but the strength of your vision and hunger to achieve it. God doesn’t need you to have much, He only needs you to start with what you have.”
Balancing Tradition and Modernity
“The tension between cultural identity and Westernization is real,” Theodore reflects. “Growing up in Simbu and now living in Morobe, I learned we don’t have to abandon one to embrace the other. I still speak my dialect and respect elders; these roots give me identity.”
Using modern technology, he builds bridges. “I remind young people: wearing a tie doesn’t make you smarter, speaking English doesn’t make you successful. Attitude and discipline do.”
Vulnerabilities Behind Influence
Behind his confident public persona, Theodore shares, “My greatest fear is leaving this world without using my full potential. Seeing young men waste lives on drugs or jealousy reminds me how easily that could have been me.” This fear fuels his drive to build and teach.
He also carries a quiet burden: “The expectations of my people, family, and children keep me grounded. Many watch hoping I’ll prove a local boy can make it without corruption or shortcuts.” While human moments of tiredness and hurt come, his faith and vision keep him moving forward.
“This voice God gave me is not for me alone; it’s for the generation coming behind me.”
About Yaliingu Valuers
Yaliingu Valuers offers expert services predominantly in real estate valuation and advisory across Papua New Guinea. With over 11 years of professional experience, Theodore Bagle Tei has valued more than 5,000 properties nationwide.
His expertise spans market value assessment, mortgage valuation, project appraisal, building approvals, feasibility studies, and portfolio management. Theodore has worked closely with major banks and financial institutions across PNG, gaining deep insights into the valuation needs of mortgaged properties.
Additionally, he brings extensive experience in real estate marketing and construction project management, including telecom tower construction and rural airstrip restorations. His association with the Catholic Diocese of Lae demonstrates his commitment to community engagement beyond business.
Over the years, Theodore has cultivated exceptional networking and mentoring skills alongside managing high-performance teams, making Yaliingu Valuers a trusted name in PNG’s property market.
