Wayne Thompson is an entrepreneur, problem-solver, and self-proclaimed independent thinker with a deep-rooted curiosity for challenges and growth. Originally from the suburbs of New York, he has spent the past several years immersing himself in Bali’s unique culture and business landscape.
His journey from frequent visitor to full-time resident was shaped by a desire for a different pace of life—one that balances ambition with mindfulness. As the founder of Buyamia.com, Indonesia’s first B2B and smart procurement marketplace, Wayne has been instrumental in bridging the gap between Indonesian producers and global buyers. In this conversation, he shares his experiences, insights, and advice on navigating life and business in Bali.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Where are you originally from?
I’m Wayne Thompson, raised in the suburbs of the New York. I’d say I’m an overly curious, adventurous contrarian. I lean into challenges and love to problem-solve, thus always looking for a way to stretch myself and grow. Along the way, I’ve met some incredible people and picked up experiences that have shaped who I am today.
I’d love to hear about your journey to Bali. When did you first discover this beautiful island, and how long are you hoping to make it your home
I first came to Bali about seven years ago for a holiday. My sister had been living here for a while at that point. At first, I was just traveling back and forth to the US, but after COVID in 2021, I decided to settle here. As for how long I’ll stay-who knows? Home is where the heart is…
What inspired you to choose this island as your home, and what was your thought process like when making such a significant change?
My sister had been living in Bali for 11 years, so I was already familiar with the island. But what really drew me in was the people and the energy of the place.. it has this magical, almost mystical overtone to its character. Coming from New York, where everything can be a bit fast-paced and chaotic, Bali offered a sense of calm and tranquility that really suited my introverted nature. It wasn’t a sudden decision; it just felt right over time.
I can see entrepreneurship is in your DNA, when over three years ago, during COVID, you founded Buyamia.com – Indonesia’s first B2B and smart procurement marketplace connecting global buyers with top Indonesian producers.
Can you
share the story behind its inception, how it has evolved, and what exciting developments are on the horizon?
The idea for Buyamia came about during COVID when I saw how the pandemic had devastated Bali’s economy. I initially started by funding and investing in Indonesian startups, but during my exploration for a more intimate understanding of the island I met a woman in a small village making and selling coconut bowls. She had little to no digital access to global markets, and that’s when it clicked I needed to create a marketplace that would connect Indonesian Manufacturers, artisans and producers with the world.
My goal was to open Indonesia up, to showcase its brands and craftsmanship globally, and to make it seamless for these businesses to integrate into the world of commerce. Since launching, we’ve been refining the platform, expanding our network, and improving the buying experience.
We now offer a feature called B-complete which is seamless end-to-end procurement for Developers, Hotels, Architects, and Designers. Our goal is to cure the fragmentation and high cost of sourcing here in Indonesia. Moving forward, we’re focusing on scaling operations, building trust in the marketplace, and making it even easier for global buyers to connect and do business.
What advice would you give to those considering a move to Bali and looking to start a business?
If you think starting a business in New York is tough, try doing it in Bali. The challenges here are on another level. You need a strong backbone, unwavering discipline, patience to guide your principles, and laser-sharp focus. The regulatory landscape is complex, policies change often, and government support is minimal. You’ll have to figure out a lot on your own. Distractions are everywhere, so staying conscious of it all is key.
You also have to navigate cultural and traditional differences and build strong relationships. But if you can push through, the opportunities here are worth it. Just be prepared to sacrifice more than you would in a more developed country it’s not easy, but it’s necessary.
How has living in Bali influenced your personal and professional life, and what opportunities have you found here?
Bali has given me space to grow and truly understand myself. Living here forces you to slow down, reflect, and be intentional about how you navigate the complexities of life. It’s taught me patience, resilience, empathy and the importance of a supportive community. The island fosters generosity and self-awareness, which has influenced both my personal and professional life in ways I didn’t expect.
On the business side, Bali has opened up incredible opportunities to meet people from different parts of the world most with a story and willing to share. I saw a gap in the market when it came to connecting Indonesian artisans with global buyers, which led me to build Buyamia. Being in Bali gave me the clarity and inspiration to create something that not only benefits my business but also helps local communities integrate into global commerce.
What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about living in Bali, and how would you correct them?
People romanticise Bali as just beaches, parties, and a laid-back paradise. The reality is, living here comes with its own set of challenges. At times traffic can be a nightmare, pollution is an issue, and the transient nature of the expat community makes it tough to build long-term relationships.
Another big misconception is that everything is cheap and easy. Sure, some things might cost less than in the West, but if you’re running a business or trying to build something long-term, you’ll quickly realise that the system here can be complex and unpredictable. It takes unparalleled insights, adaptability, and a deep respect for the culture to truly thrive in Bali.
How do you see Bali evolving and changing in the future, and what impact do you think this will have on expats living here?
Bali is rapidly evolving into a major economic hub. More foreign investors are coming in, large-scale developments are increasingly being onboarded, and the island is becoming more commercialised. I think we’ll see a shift where people start moving into more rural areas as urban centres become more crowded and expensive. For expats, this means both opportunities and challenges.
On one hand, there will be more business potential, better infrastructure, and more global integration. On the other hand, the cost of living will rise, regulations may tighten, and it might become harder to find the untouched, authentic Bali that many originally came here for. The key is adapting.. those who can evolve with Bali’s growth will find success, but those looking for the ‘old Bali’ may struggle to keep up.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience living in Bali that we haven’t covered yet?
Bali has a way of teaching you things you didn’t know you needed to learn. It forces you to be aware – of the plenty-nuances and variables that govern one’s-self, your energy, and how you interact with the world might also adjust and or recalibrate. If you come here just to take, the island will push back. But if you come with respect, gratitude, and a willingness to contribute, Bali will give back to you in ways you can’t imagine.
One thing I always tell people: give back to the island it’s worth it. Whether it’s supporting environmental conservation, helping animals, or uplifting local communities, find a way to contribute. Bali isn’t just a place to escape, it’s a place to grow, but only if you approach it with the right mindset.
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