The Ones Who Call the Storm—And Dance in It

In myths and history, Rainmakers were believed to possess supernatural abilities—shamans who called forth rain to nourish the land. But in the modern world, a Rainmaker is something different. They are visionaries, disruptors, and leaders who bring change where others see impossibility. They turn dry, barren ground into fields of opportunity. They challenge norms, take risks, and create legacies that inspire generations.

They are innovators or chnagemakers, if you like. They are the ones who turn ideas into reality. One such Rainmaker is Sir Mick Nades, the founder of IBSUniversity (IBSU). His journey is a clear-cut representation of what determination, vision, and persistence can accomplish.

What began as a small business college grew into a well-established university under his leadership. Sir Mick Nades faced and overcame numerous challenges, staying true to the spirit of a Rainmaker. His efforts demonstrate how those who think beyond limitations and take bold actions can make a monumental difference.

The Myth and Reality of Rainmakers

Throughout history, Rainmakers have taken many forms—leaders who started revolutions, entrepreneurs who transformed industries, and innovators who introduced new possibilities. They are the ones who put their dreams to the test.

Sir Mick Nades is one of them. His journey began in 1987 with the establishment of IBS as a business and accounting college in Papua New Guinea. At the time, access to quality education in the country was limited, and the idea of building a world-class institution seemed ambitious—if not impossible.

But Rainmakers don’t see anything as impossible. Instead, they create new opportunities. With dedication and a clear vision, Sir Mick Nades grew IBS from a business school into a university, earning international accreditations and expanding its programs to include business, accounting, information technology, and more.

Today, IBSU exists because of his vision, showing how one person’s determination can alter the course of what once seemed like a predetermined future for generations to come.

Why We Fear and Admire Rainmakers

Rainmakers are often misunderstood. Change, by nature, is unsettling, and those who dare to challenge the norm are frequently met with resistance. The world fears Rainmakers because they disrupt comfort zones.

When Sir Mick Nades first shared his vision for IBS, many doubted it could become a reality. Building a university from the ground up with limited resources and infrastructure was a huge challenge. But he didn’t give up. He moved forward with a strong belief that education drives national progress.

Today, IBSU stands with modern facilities, global connections, and thousands of graduates who have built successful careers—a direct outcome of Sir Mick’s determination to make a difference in the lives of Papua New Guineans.

The Art of Making Rain

So what does it take to be a Rainmaker?

1. Taking Risks – Moving beyond familiar territories is something every Rainmaker does. Sir Mick Nades took calculated risks, leading to investments in new programs and the creation of a higher education institution, all the while attracting certain scrutinies.

2. Creating Change – A true Rainmaker is led by his vision and values and for Sir Mick Nades it was to contribute more than just personal achievement; he envisioned bringing quality education to Papua New Guineans. The development of IBSU’s modern campus at Mt. Eriama clearly signifies this dream.

3. Accepting Challenges – No Rainmaker’s journey is without difficulties. The important takeaway from their journey is that every challenge is accepted as part of the learning process. It helps them move closer to success.

The Legacy of a Rainmaker

Rainmakers don’t just exist—they leave a legacy; a legacy that bears the inspiration-particle for future generations not only to think big, but to push past limitations, and create opportunities where none existed before.

Sir Mick Nades’ story will always be linked to IBSU’s journey. From a single college classroom to a well-established university, he proved that vision, passion, and determination can turn the impossible into reality.

And just like him, the world still needs more Rainmakers—those who will step up, take action, and bring change where it’s needed most.

Bottom Line

Rainmakers are not born; they are made. Anyone can become one by daring to think differently, facing challenges head-on, and taking bold actions to create legacies.

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