Latest news with #PacificIslander
Buzz Feed
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Rachel House Interview — Voices Of The Pacific
BuzzFeed: You voiced Gramma Tala in both Moana movies. What was it like returning to your character for the sequel? Moana 2 has been widely praised for its absolutely stunning animation. What can you share about that process? Gramma Tala showing up right when Moana needs her most is such an emotional moment at the end. What message do you hope people take away from that powerful scene? How do you balance staying true to your heritage while participating in an industry often dominated by non-Pacific Islander narratives? And is there a moment where you felt especially empowered and proud of your Māori identity? You've worked with Taika Waititi on many projects, from Hunt for the Wilderpeople to Next Goal Wins to Thor: Ragnarok. What's something that would surprise people to learn about him? If you could work with any Pacific Islander, who would it be and why? I spoke with Simone for this interview series — she's hoping to do a project with you, too! It sounded like it's not for sure yet, but is that something that you think is gonna happen? Last year, you made your feature film directorial debut with The Mountain. What did you take away from that experience? Is directing movies something you want to continue exploring? For Pacific Islanders, there are so many aspects of our cultures that we hold close to our hearts, from our foods to our dances to our tattoos. What's your favorite part of your culture? Do you have a favorite Māori food? What advice do you have for young Pacific Islander creatives? Finally, what does being Pacific Islander mean to you? Thanks for chatting with us, Rachel! Be sure to keep up with Rachel here.
RNZ News
a day ago
- Health
- RNZ News
Milestone moments: profiling Pasifika graduates
Photo: Coco Lance For many Pacific Islanders, academic graduations are momentous familial moments. Whether it's a high school, or university graduation, you'll often see entire families - mothers, fathers, aunties, uncles, grandparents, siblings, and cousins - gathering in full force to celebrate - and in classic Pacific fashion; with pride, leis, and traditional dress. In recent years, universities have seen more Māori and Pacific students not only graduating, but thriving at exceptional levels . RNZ Pacific spoke with a group of recent graduates who shared insights into their academic journeys: the challenges, highlights, and hopes for the future. "In 2023, I lost my 10-year-old son and, shortly after, my mother. Their deaths broke me. I lost the will to study and nearly gave up completely. But even in those dark moments, I remembered why I started this journey." Tina Vao, pictured with her late son Lata Vao and late mother Paea Veituna Photo: Tina Vao For Tongan-born mother of six, Tina Vao, the path to graduation has been steeped in unimaginable grief, resilience, and faith. In early 2024, following the loss of both her son and mother, Vao was involved in a life-threatening car crash. Despite it all, Vao crossed the stage this year, graduating from Massey University with a Bachelor of Food Technology with Honours. "I've always wanted my education to uplift others, not just myself," she said. With the support of her whānau, her culture, and her faith, Vao said her graduation was more than just a celebration of academic achievement - it also helped her heal. "It wasn't just about receiving a degree; it was about everything I had overcome to get there," Vao said. "My whānau were there in spirit, especially my late son and mother. My other children were there in person, and seeing them watch me graduate meant everything. "This degree is a testimony of God's faithfulness, of resilience, and of the sacrifices made by my family for me to succeed." Looking ahead, her focus remains on service. If she secures a scholarship, Vao hopes to return to Massey next year to begin postgraduate study, with an emphasis on food safety and nutrition for vulnerable populations, especially in the Pacific. Long term, she wants to bridge science with real-world community needs. "Perhaps even developing culturally safe food solutions, or leading education programmes in the Pacific region," Vao said. Her experiences of hardship, healing, and perseverance have shaped the message she hopes to share with others. "I want Pasifika, especially mothers, caregivers, and those facing hardship, to know that their dreams are valid. "Our voices are needed in spaces like science, food innovation, and healthcare. Your background isn't a barrier - it's your superpower. "Ask for help when you need it. Surround yourself with people who believe in you. And most of all, remember why you started. "For me, my 'why' was my children, and it kept me going through everything. You have something special to offer the world. Education can open doors, but your courage is what walks you through them." "I seriously decided, what can I do with my life? I can finish my degree. I went back to finish that off, and six years later, I've picked up three degrees." Arama Tairea, who has graduated with a Masters of Arts in Religious Studies Photo: Arama Tairea Arama Tairea has graduated with a Masters of Arts in religious studies. Tairea, who is Cook Island Māori, did not follow a conventional academic journey. "I never got Level 2 in high school. My mum said I could drop out and work, or finish," he said. "So I finished, and didn't really know what to do with my life. I worked as a forklift driver, but a year later, I knew I wanted to do something else. So I went to uni." While Tairea enrolled, his initial stint was short-lived. "I wasn't as mature as I needed to be," he said. "After two years, I just felt like it wasn't working. So I left." For the next decade, Tairea spent time between different jobs. In 2019, he was over it. "I seriously decided, what can I do with my life? Well, I could finish my degree. I went back to finish that off, and six years later, I've picked up three degrees," Tairea said. But the road wasn't easy. Tairea questioned whether he was making the right move. "I looked at where all my friends were in life. I was older. Should I be going back?" he said. "But I thought, I've got nothing to lose, and everything to gain." His undergrad included philosophy and religious studies. "I wasn't brought up religious in the traditional sense," he said. "I always had this curiosity about why religion holds such a place in our culture, and why does that seem to be shifting?" Tairea's thesis looked at the evolving relationship between Cook Islands Māori identity and Christianity in Aotearoa. He spoke to people across the country, in their early twenties to their seventies, and asked them what religion meant to them, and how it intersected with culture. "Traditionally, the church supported our culture. But as more of us move away from the church, it raises questions about culture," he said. His research also became a personal journey. "My master's was a journey of self-discovery. It helped me make sense of my own upbringing, of where I sit within my culture and faith." Tairea regretted not taking Pacific studies earlier on in his academic career; however he remedied this during his Honours year. "I thought, being a Pacific person, I knew everything, but I didn't. There was so much more to learn." While a PhD is on the horizon, for now, Tairea is focused on other goals. He's working in research ethics and is passionate about creating spaces where Pacific voices are heard and valued, particularly within academic and institutional settings. "I think about my nieces and nephews, coming to the end of high school, figuring out what to do. If I can show them that there's no one right way to succeed, that our journeys can be messy and still matter, that's enough." Tairea encouraged all Pasifika to find their passion and "go hard". "I think my biggest mistake the first time was not asking for help. But that help is out there now, more than ever," Tairea said. "Don't make yourself whiter; make the room browner." Josephine Ripley, who has graduated with First Class Honours in Law, alongside a Pacific Studies degree. Photo: Josephine Ripley "Don't make yourself whiter; make the room browner." That was the advice from a prominent Pasifika judge that has stuck with Josephine Ripley; a call to resist assimilation, and instead make room for representation. It's fitting, then, that Ripley, driven by justice from a young age, recently graduated from the University of Otago with First Class Honours in law and a Bachelor of Arts in Pacific Island studies. "It was one of the best weekends of my life. I felt overwhelmed by the significance of it," she said. "The moment was as much my family's as it was my own." Now a law clerk at Buddle Findlay, a leading firm in Aotearoa, Ripley comes from a family of advocates. "My parents have always role modeled empathy, kindness, humility and honesty," she said. "I always had a strong awareness of how not everyone has the same chances in life, and injustices always bothered me. "We don't all start on a level playing field, and being compassionate and empathetic is a key driver in understanding other people's issues and problems." Her grandfather, a lawyer who dedicated nearly 70 years to serving his community, was a powerful example of what compassionate, community-focused law could look like. "My grandfather was an amazing lawyer, who worked to give free advice to those who needed it, with integrity and kindness," Ripley said. Alongside law, Otago's Pacific Island studies course gave Ripley a deeper connection to her culture. "As a product of the Pacific diaspora, I wanted to learn more about my culture, and the beautiful Pacific region," she said. Perhaps the most transformative part of university was finding community through PILSA (Pacific Islands Law Students' Association), and UOPISA (University of Otago Pacific Islands Law Students' Association), where she was deputy president. "Being a part of these associations completely changed my experience as a Pacific student at Otago. "I was nurtured and supported by them as a first and second year, and then able to give back as a senior student. It's so important to create safe spaces for Pacific students to really thrive." A milestone in her academic journey was completing her dissertation, supervised by academic Jacinta Ruru and second-marked by Metiria Turei. "I really admire both of these wāhine toa and the work they do, so it was a real privilege to be able to work with them." Her dissertation, titled 'Tangata Moana for Tino Rangatiratanga', explores how Pacific peoples can support Māori aspirations for constitutional transformation. Looking ahead, Ripley hopes to complete her professional legal studies and be admitted to the bar by the end of 2025. Further study is also on the horizon. "Long term I would definitely consider doing further postgraduate study. I'd love to do a Masters in Pacific studies and I'm also really passionate about creative writing and it's something I want to pursue seriously." Her passion for law remains focused on constitutional change and social justice. "My dissertation really sparked a passion for me in terms of constitutional change in Aotearoa, so I'd love to do more work in this space too." "I want to inspire Pacific community members to pursue contribute to their communities." Saki Baleivanualala, who has graduated with a Doctorate in Philosophy in Microbiology. Photo: Saki Baleivanualala Saki Baleivanualala has graduated with a doctorate in philosophy in microbiology from the University of Otago. Leaving behind the warmth of his tropical homeland, Baleivanualala found himself facing an entirely different challenge when he moved to Dunedin. Not academic rigor, necessarily, but a colder climate. "I mean, I left Fiji, a very tropical island, and came to Dunedin, a very cold place. So that was hard," Baleivanualala laughed. Despite the climate challenge, Baleivanualala arrived in Dunedin with a mission: to tackle a pressing health issue affecting the Fjiian region, antibiotic resistance. He has firsthand experience with superbugs, and was concerned by what he saw. "I've worked in various hospitals in Fjii, and saw lots of people being affected by antibiotic resistance, which is a growing thing there. That's why I wanted to continue my research on what the main problem is. "Why is it so common? Why is it so popular in Fiji? I suspect it is throughout other Pacific island countries as well. That's why I wanted to pursue this study," he said. With a strong foundation in medicine from Fiji National University and a Master's degree in infectious diseases from Australia, his PhD in microbiology at the University of Otago was driven by an ongoing commitment to all Pacific communities. "We have seen that the Pacific community have been this proportionally affected in terms of health status. I want to bring down that curve. So, if we stop this in the islands, we are saving the Pacific community here in New Zealand as well," Baleivanualala said. His PhD journey resulted in a major academic milestone: the publication of three peer-reviewed papers directly from his thesis, and an additional paper on mycobacterium tuberculosis. "That was a huge achievement for me, coming from a small island and having my first academic paper published, then more as I studied. It took a lot of time to research, and figure things out," he said. Baleivanualala said that certain aspects of the work, like DNA analysis and bioinformatics, were particularly challenging due to their novelty. Support from his supervisors and the University of Otago made it manageable. "The university environment here is very supportive, not just academically, but also the wider Dunedin community. After a few months, I realised it wasn't so lonely being away from home." Graduation was an emotional occasion for Baleivanualala, who was joined by his wife and celebrated by the local Fijian community and church groups in Dunedin. "My wife has always been so supportive of me, all throughout my academic career. "The Fijian community here, they've been so supportive, too. Everybody hosted me after the graduation - we had a huge party," Baleivanualala said. Most importantly, Baleivanualala wanted people to know that this milestone was about giving back. "I told everyone that this degree isn't just mine, it's for them - for the communities that supported me, and for the people I'm researching for." Baleivanualala is now training others in Fiji to build local capacity and help set up a genome sequencing facility in Fjii, which he said is critical for early disease detection and prevention in the Pacific. "If we can detect antibiotic resistance or emerging diseases early in Fiji, we can protect the entire Pacific community and even countries beyond," he said. Baleivanualala said his message for others is clear. Pursue education, and uplift your community. "I hope my journey inspires others, young and older people, that education can happen at any stage. It doesn't stop - and how we use it, makes such a difference." "I focused a lot on tapa; how it binds communities, keeps us safe, preserves stories, and as a form of healing." Mauatua Fa'ara-Reynolds, who has completed her Bachelor of Arts in Pacific Studies and Cultural Anthropology. Photo: Mauatua Fa'ara-Reynolds From Ra'iatea to Norfolk Island, from rural Australia to Pōneke, Mauatua Fa'ara-Reynolds journeyed across oceans before landing at Te Herenga Waka, Victoria University of Wellington. A proud Tahitian and Norfolk Islander, Fa'ara-Reynolds has completed her Bachelor of Arts in Pacific Studies and Cultural Anthropology, where she now plans to pursue a Master's in creative writing. Prior to Pōneke, Fa'ara-Reynolds was living in a small, rural Australian town of 1,000 people. There was one Fijian student at her school; otherwise, Pasifika were hard to come by. By the time university came around, Fa'ara-Reynolds was "over the small-town Australian life". "I was in dire need of connection and community," she said. "I wasn't ready to go back to Tahiti, but Wellington felt like a step towards home. When I arrived in Wellington, there was a natural homeliness. I just knew I was in the right place." During her time at university, Fa'ara Reynolds has been a force, stepping into an accumulation of roles as a Pacific studies tutor, researcher, and writer. She wrote for the student magazine, Salient , which included a celebrated piece about Pacific studies. While on that topic, she rejected the notion of Pacific studies being a 'useless' arts subject. "It's helped me find my place in this world, and was a guiding light for other students, too," she said. Fa'ara-Reynolds added that her mother, Pacific academic Dr Pauline Reynolds, continues to be a source of inspiration. "A lot of mum's mahi was around reclaiming and rewriting the history of our tupuna wāhine, rewriting the story of the bounty, the story of Norfolk Islands - so we always had discussions on decolonisation. It was a really present thing in our home," she said. "Mum also makes tapa, so I grew up making tapa, too." In her last two years of study, Fa'ara Reynolds honed in on her knowledge. "I focused how tapa binds communities, keeps us safe, preserves stories, and as a form of healing. I also focused on the impacts of colonialism and nuclear testing," Fa'ara-Reynolds said. She now has many lessons under her belt following university. "Have faith. I have this blind faith in my ancestors and gods, that if they could endure what they did, I can endure this journey. I guess university reinforced that - the power in these stories. "Sometimes, I think it's easy to forget that - especially in very white settings - but in contrast to that, us Pacific people are so valuable in university settings... so there must be more. More of our stories, our lineage, our knowledge. We contribute so powerfully."
Los Angeles Times
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
Celebrating Excellence: 30 AAPI Wedding Vendors Who Are Reshaping the Industry
In today's dynamic wedding industry, AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) wedding vendors are making a powerful impact—blending cultural heritage, thoughtful design, and exceptional craftsmanship to transform how we celebrate love. From AAPI-owned wedding planning companies and florists to photographers, DJs, beauty artists, and henna specialists, these top 30 Asian American and Pacific Islander wedding professionals are redefining the standard with creativity, intention, and deep cultural roots. Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month is especially important in the wedding world, where diverse wedding traditions and authentic representation matter. This list honors the best AAPI wedding vendors—trailblazers who bring innovation, artistry, and heart to every celebration, shaping a more inclusive and inspired future for weddings. Founded in 1998, 3D Sounds is a proudly Asian-owned company delivering over 25 years of expertise in entertainment, lighting, and audio-visual production. Now led by Amit Kotecha, the company is known for its high-end service, innovative production design, and seamless execution across a wide range of events—including corporate functions, brand activations, non-profits, weddings, and educational institutions. With deep roots in the AAPI community and a commitment to excellence, 3D Sounds continues to elevate experiences with creativity, professionalism, and heart. 329events is a full-service event planning studio founded by Filipina powerhouse Marjorie Lashmet, bringing over 15 years of expertise in weddings, experiential marketing, brand activations, and milestone celebrations. Known for curating elevated, unforgettable experiences, the 329events team is dedicated to transforming your vision into reality—with heart, precision, and style. Whether you're planning a wedding, product launch, or once-in-a-lifetime celebration, 329events brings the creativity, structure, and passion to make it magical. Bella Belle is a beautifully crafted shoe brand inspired by the Italian phrase for 'beautiful,' celebrated for its romantic details, timeless silhouettes, and signature comfort. Designed for women who believe shoes make the outfit, Bella Belle offers feminine, ethereal footwear that turns every step into a statement. Founded by best friends Erina and Veronyca, Bella Belle was born from a shared passion for design, thoughtful craftsmanship, and bringing joy to life's most meaningful moments. Each pair is meticulously handmade by skilled artisans using the finest materials—from embroidered tulle and delicate lace to hand-beading and silk accents. Built with comfort in mind, every design features cushioned insoles so you can shine from day to night, effortlessly. From elegant bridal heels to modern flats and dazzling block heels, Bella Belle shoes are wearable works of art—perfect for weddings, soirées, and everyday celebrations. Grace Lee is the Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Birdy Grey, the brand that revolutionized the wedding party shopping experience with style, accessibility, and affordability at its core. After spending over a decade in the fashion and beauty industry, Grace launched Birdy Grey in 2017, inspired by her own frustrations as a bridesmaid navigating outdated and overpriced options. Her vision of stylish, versatile bridesmaid dresses—and now, coordinating suits for men—at an unbeatable price point quickly disrupted the wedding space. Today, Grace leads the brand with hands-on creativity, from designing new collections to directing photo shoots, all while ensuring every Birdy Grey experience is joyful, seamless, and celebration-worthy for everyone in the wedding party. Benny Chiu, owner of BYC Photography, is an international, multi-award-winning wedding photographer known for telling love stories through bold and authentic imagery. With over a decade of experience, his work blends cinematic artistry with emotional depth, capturing the true essence of each couple he photographs. Benny's passion for documenting people, connection, and fleeting moments began long before photography became his career, it's how he sees the world and shares the stories that matter. He believes every wedding is a legacy in the making, and approaches each one with care, intention, and a commitment to creating timeless images that will be cherished for generations. Michelle Tieu is a calligrapher, designer, and invitation artist based in Southern California, known for her elegant, intentional, and eco-conscious approach to design. Her love for lettering began in high school, doodling notes and creating hand-drawn typography for friends—long before she even knew what 'typography' meant. Since 2014, Michelle has been creating beautiful pieces using everything from brush markers to pointed pens and now her Apple Pencil, merging traditional techniques with modern tools. Committed to sustainability, Michelle encourages clients to choose eco-friendly options like handmade, seed, and recycled paper, and offers a selection of rentals—from acrylic signage to table numbers—for events in the Southern California area. Whether working on wedding invitations, brand elements, or custom signage, Michelle brings a collaborative spirit and a heartfelt desire to turn her clients' visions into reality. Campfire Events is a SoCal award winning wedding planning company born from a love of storytelling, and we are delighted to partner with our clients to craft their special day as we invite them to share what brings them joy. We believe in empowering our clients and love being their advocates ensuring that they not only have a seamless and enjoyable wedding but one that is a reflection of their passions and bespoke story as a couple. Campfire Events has been featured across multiple publications including CA Wedding Day, Us Weekly Magazine from their work with Kenny Lattimore and Faith Jenkins, Essence, Ceremony Magazine, Green Wedding Shoes, Inspired by This and many more. Christy Yoo Artistry is a luxury on site wedding hair and makeup business based out of Glendale, California, that was founded in 2018. Her signature service is the Concierge package, where she can help make you feel like a celebrity on the most invested and photographed day of your life. She services all of Southern California and Destination, from Italy to Belize. Christy delights in bringing her clients' visions to life and to help remind each one of them of the beauty that they truly are through the medium of hair and makeup. Born and raised in Taipei, DJ Mish is a Los Angeles–based DJ known for her high-energy sets and cultural influence. With over 10 years of experience and 600+ shows, she's performed at major stages like Coachella and Dodger Stadium, and collaborated with stars like Paris Hilton. Her genre-spanning style blends Hip-Hop, RnB, NeoSoul, and Afrobeat, enhanced by dynamic remixes that light up every dancefloor. She's worked with brands like Disney, Vogue, and Fitbit, and played global events including EDC and Road to Ultra. DJ Mish is also the founder behind the viral Taiwan Golden Melody Night party series, bringing the sounds of Taiwan to sold-out crowds across North America. When premium events call for elevated energy, Southern Californians turn to DJ ROSÉ. This multifaceted Pinay entrepreneur from Long Beach & Diamond Bar has rocked Dodger Stadium in consecutive years (2024 and 2025), LA landmarks like The Ford Theater and LACMA, while also co-directing Peonies & Bliss Events, a full-service planning company specializing in luxury celebrations. A fitness enthusiast and resident DJ for Barry's Bootcamp and Nike Training Studios, Jenny Rodil lives her motto—'movement is my medicine'—whether she's energizing corporate gatherings, amplifying weddings, or recently, announcing for Ragnar Relay SoCal. Since graduating from the esteemed Academy of DJs, she's built a reputation for creating immersive experiences that honor her Filipino-American heritage while elevating Southern California's event scene. Beyond DJing, she serves as MC, host, officiant, and event director, seamlessly blending technical skill with authentic connection. Foodologie Baked Goods is a Filipino woman-owned bakery and gift shop specializing in small-batch cookies and brownies. They cater to weddings and events of all sizes, offering bite-sized desserts perfect for party favors or dessert tables. Foodologie was born out of the pandemic from a 'home bakery' but opened as a brick and mortar bakery August 2023 While they serve classic American favorites like chocolate chip cookies and rich chocolate brownies, they're best known for their Asian-inspired treats—like ube, pandan, and matcha brownies, as well as our signature Dubai Ube Cookie and Ube Cookies & Cream. KimFilms Weddings is a boutique photo and video studio founded by husband-and-wife duo Alexandr and Marina Kim, who have been capturing weddings since 2019. Specializing in bold, joy-filled celebrations, their work focuses on real emotions, cultural richness, and unforgettable energy. As an AAPI-owned business — with Alexandr being Russian-Korean and born in Uzbekistan — KimFilms Weddings brings a deep appreciation for culture, diversity, and meaningful tradition. Many of their couples come from multicultural and Asian backgrounds, and the team is especially skilled at documenting heritage moments in a way that feels both modern and true. Taking on a limited number of weddings each year, they prioritize intentional care and personal connection. La Design Boutique is a design studio specializing in wedding stationery that began as a genuine love story. When Anna Quach, Creative Director and Founder of La Design Boutique, designed her own wedding invitations, she discovered a real passion for helping other couples tell their stories through meticulously designed invitation suites and beautifully crafted wedding day paperie. With over 15 years of refined expertise, Anna serves as a dedicated personal designer who listens intently to the client's desires, obsesses over the little things, and brings a vision to life with care and creativity. As a proud woman- and Asian-owned business, she blends romance and sophisticated flair with a touch of enchantment into each creation. Her distinctive designs can be found on the shelves of major retailers and the pages of published works. Lap Le, founder of LX PIX, has quickly become a powerhouse in the photobooth industry—transforming the way we capture moments through sleek, high-tech, and highly shareable photo experiences. With a client roster that includes major celebrities and global brands, LX PIX is the go-to name for red carpet events, luxury weddings, and unforgettable brand activations. Known for its innovative approach and cutting-edge technology, the brand leads the industry in setting trends and elevating guest engagement. As a trailblazer in the event space, Lap Le continues to push boundaries and redefine what a photo moment can be. Based in Los Angeles and Orange County, Itsada is a Thai-American makeup artist and hairstylist who seamlessly blends the grace of traditional Thai aesthetics with contemporary Western glamour. Her signature style, known as Thai-style makeup, is a harmonious fusion that celebrates her cultural roots while catering to modern beauty sensibilities. This unique approach has made her a sought-after artist for brides and clients seeking a distinctive and personalized look. Itsada's dedication to her craft led her to Thailand, where she trained under some of the country's top makeup artists. This experience enriched her skills and deepened her connection to her heritage, allowing her to offer clients an authentic Thai-inspired beauty experience. Her work is characterized by flawless skin finishes, soft yet defined features, and an overall radiant glow, making her a favorite among those looking to infuse their special occasions with cultural elegance and modern sophistication. Mr&Mrs Creamery established in 2012 makes any special day just a little bit sweeter. Known for their artisan crafted ice creams/sorbets, specialized custom cakes, curated desert tables, mini desserts & more. My Wedding Songbird is a Chinese American wedding planning company based in Los Angeles, officially founded in 2016 by Sarah Wang, and celebrated for designing deeply personal, visually stunning celebrations that honor both modern love stories and rich cultural heritage. As an AAPI-owned business, they specialize in blending Eastern and Western traditions, whether through heartfelt bilingual ceremonies, meaningful tea rituals, or culturally inspired décor, so every couple feels seen and celebrated. What sets them apart is our culturally fluent team of planners, coordinators, officiants, and MCs who speak Cantonese, Mandarin, and Vietnamese, ensuring seamless communication and authentic representation. While rooted in LA, they plan mid-to-luxury tier weddings around the globe, with past celebrations in the UK, Indonesia, Mexico, Australia, the Dominican Republic, and across the U.S., including Hawaii, Colorado, Florida, and more. Neha Assar Artistry redefines cultural elegance through bespoke mehndi and intricate body art that transcends tradition. Since 1994, Neha has been adorning brides and clients across the nation and beyond, transforming henna into captivating works of art that tell a story with every stroke. Her mastery of design has drawn the attention of some of Hollywood's most prominent names, including SZA, Kylie Jenner, Raja Kumari, Shay Mitchell, Savannah & Zhuri James, Sonam Kapoor, DSmoke, Shaunie Henderson and more—all proudly showcasing her signature creations. Beyond mehndi, Neha's artistry extends to hand-painted sneakers, apparel, accessories, furniture, and dimensional wall art, seamlessly blending heritage with modern aesthetics. She also elevates live events with custom glassware engraving, offering guests a personalized experience infused with elegance. Guided by principles of sustainability, community impact, and cultural representation, Neha Assar Artistry bridges the gap between tradition and contemporary design—one masterpiece at a time. Peter Ascalon is a Filipino-American luxury and destination wedding filmmaker, and the founder of Peter Ascalon Films, where love stories are sculpted into timeless works of art. Born in the Philippines and raised in the U.S., Peter navigated the challenges of a new culture and language at a young age—an experience that shaped his deep sensitivity to unspoken emotion. With 10+ years of experience, he has built a body of work defined by intention, soul, and refined visual storytelling. His films honor vulnerability, celebrate connection, and preserve the quiet beauty of love—reflecting both his heritage and his heart with enduring grace. Puffect Bakery Cafe is a women- and AAPI-owned bakery that has proudly served the Walnut, CA community for over 11 years. Specializing in custom cakes, handcrafted macarons, and elegantly curated dessert tables, the bakery caters to a wide range of occasions—from weddings and birthdays to cultural celebrations. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Asia, the founder envisioned a space where nostalgic tastes could be reimagined through modern dessert design. Puffect Bakery is the realization of that vision—a place where tradition and creativity come together. Shaneli Jain is a celebrity jewelry designer and founder of her fine jewelry brand, Shaneli. Her unique designs have been featured in ELLE, WEDVIBES, Tatler and more; she has also adorned luminaries at events such as the Golden Globes, Miss America, and the WNBA. Beyond custom pieces on the red carpet, Shaneli offers a bespoke bridal line, crafting unique engagement rings and wedding jewelry that blend timeless elegance with modern artistry. Shaneli's pieces are more than jewelry—they are stories. Her custom designs stand out for their creativity and emotional depth. Rooted in her family's beginnings in the wholesale jewelry business, Shaneli blends luxury with accessibility. Her brand strikes a rare balance between high-end design and thoughtful pricing, making fine jewelry more attainable. Steven Dorn transitioned into wedding filmmaking as a pursuit of creative fulfillment, leaving behind a medical career where the environment often lacked joy and imagination. In medicine, he encountered people during their most challenging times, and while the work was meaningful, it rarely highlighted the uplifting aspects of life. Now, through the lens of his camera, he has the privilege of capturing the profound love stories of couples on one of their most significant days. Each wedding Steven Dorn Films captures is a heartfelt narrative, weaving together genuine emotions, intimate moments, and the unique essence of each couple's journey. This artistic endeavor not only allows him to express his creativity but also brings joy to others, transforming fleeting moments into timeless memories. Established in 2013, The Bleu Dahlia began as a floral design and paper flower artistry studio. Over the past decade, it has evolved into a full-service creative studio offering custom backdrops, prop fabrication, bespoke signage, and a wide range of personalized design elements. With a passion for transforming spaces through thoughtful details and imaginative craftsmanship, The Bleu Dahlia brings artistic vision and heart to every project—no matter how big or small. Jasmine Murata Clouser is an award-winning cake artist and founder of The Couture Cakery, a premier boutique custom cakery located in Orange County. A second-generation Japanese American, Jasmine combines her cultural heritage, artistic passion, and design background to create wedding cakes, celebration cake and dessert displays that are both visually stunning and delectably crafted. Jasmine has received numerous accolades, including The Knot's Best of Weddings & Knot Hall of Fame and recently won California Wedding Day's 2025 Best Cakes and Desserts in Orange County. Jasmine also is actively involved in the wedding community by serving as vice president of Wedding Industry Professional Associations Southern California chapter. Founded in 2015 by certified lead event planner Carol Banh Keiner. The Blushing Details has become a beacon of excellence in the Southern California wedding scene. With a background in fashion and visual merchandising spanning over 12 years, Carol brings a unique aesthetic sensibility to every event. Her passion for design and meticulous attention to detail have positioned The Blushing Details as a top-tier wedding planning and design company, specializing in creating events that encapsulate each client's distinctive personality. Operating out of Pasadena, The Blushing Details offers a comprehensive range of services, including full-service planning, partial planning, day-of coordination, and destination wedding planning. The team's commitment to excellence has earned them numerous accolades, including multiple 'Best of Weddings' awards from The Knot and Best Wedding Planner at the California Wedding Day Gala. Clients consistently praise Carol and her team for their professionalism, creativity, and ability to bring dream weddings to life. Since 2015, Sue of The Flower Boutique has been crafting timeless floral designs rooted in elegance, creativity, and heart. A proud Vietnamese American florist, Sue brings a rich cultural perspective and a deep passion for beauty into every bloom. From everyday arrangements that brighten homes to large-scale installations that transform grand venues, each design is thoughtfully tailored to elevate any space or celebration. With meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to excellence, The Flower Boutique brings your floral vision to life—turning fleeting moments into unforgettable memories. A passion sparked into existence. The Grey Orange was born from the vibrant pulse of DJing and the electrifying atmosphere of mobile sound systems. Founded by Joey Tang in 2013, he and his collective of sonic artisans form a harmonious tapestry, blending genres, cultures, into a kaleidoscope of sound. At The Grey Orange, the team believes that every event deserves a unique soundtrack and a visual narrative that captivates the senses. Their passionate professionals combine cutting-edge technology with artistic flair, ensuring that each event is not just seen and heard, but felt. The Lounge Booth™ is more than a photo activation—it's a celebration of identity and a love letter to representation. Co-founded by Filipino-American creatives Charles Guinto and Leo Cabal in 2022, the studio blends editorial polish with cultural pride, creating elevated portrait experiences that make every guest feel seen and celebrated—especially those from underrepresented communities. What sets The Lounge Booth apart is intention. As a proudly AAPI-led team, Charles and Leo use their platform to champion Asian representation and uplift fellow creatives. They don't just capture beautiful moments—they create cultural touchpoints rooted in pride, visibility, and belonging, shaping the future of AAPI storytelling one frame at a time. Tin Nguyen, owner of Tin Photography is a seasoned destination wedding photographer with over a decade of experience capturing love stories across the globe—from the Glacier Lagoon in Iceland to the romantic streets of Venice and the sunny shores of the Caribbean, as well as his home base in Orange County, California. Known for his timeless imagery and calm, professional presence, Tin is dedicated not only to creating beautiful photographs but also to providing a seamless, supportive experience every step of the way. He understands the weight of each moment and treats every wedding as the beginning of a lasting legacy. With Tin behind the lens, couples can be fully present, knowing their most meaningful memories are in expert hands. With over 20 years of experience in the luxury event industry, Jack of TMMPro is renowned for transforming spaces into unforgettable experiences. Specializing in high-end event lighting, DJ & emcee services, audio visual production, and refined chair and table rentals, Jack and his team bring creativity, precision, and professionalism to every detail. TMMPro also offers custom dance floors, elegant drapery installations, and immersive visual effects, making them a premier one-stop destination for sophisticated event production. From opulent weddings to high-profile corporate galas, Jack's commitment to excellence ensures every event is flawlessly executed with style, innovation, and impact.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Tips sought after 18-year-old disappears near Columbia River
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Authorities are searching for an 18-year-old who was last seen by friends at Vancouver Lake near the Columbia River on Friday. Franky Fred was wearing black Nike shoes, black pants, and a white hoodie 'with Hawaiian flowers' when he went missing, and some of his personal items were left at the beach near the Columbia River, according to police. Investigators describe Fred as a Pacific Islander male with black hair and brown eyes who stands 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighs 140 pounds. Anyone with information about Fred is encouraged to contact Vancouver police. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Buzz Feed
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
Uli Latukefu Interview — Voices Of The Pacific
BuzzFeed: Many American fans were introduced to you when you played the young adult Dwayne Johnson in Young Rock. What was it like portraying a character inspired by the life of a real person we all know and love? In a previous interview, you revealed that you didn't actually meet Dwayne in person until the set of Black Adam, which surprised me. Can you share what that was like? Did anything surprise you about how he was in person versus over Zoom? How do you balance staying true to your heritage while participating in an industry often dominated by non-Pacific Islander narratives? And is there a moment in your career where you felt especially empowered and proud of your Tongan identity? What can you tell us about your role as Lucas Finau in Prime Video's upcoming crime drama, Countdown? You played Callum in the Nicole Kidman-produced Australian show, The Last Anniversary, based on the book by Liane Moriarty. It felt different from some of your more physical roles since the show is a family drama mystery, and I loved seeing another side of you! How did it feel stepping into this genre and portraying Callum, whose focus is as a father and husband? For Pacific Islanders, there are so many aspects of our cultures that we hold close to our hearts, from our foods to our dances to our tattoos. What's your favorite part of your culture? Do you have a favorite Tongan food? You played Nicky Salapu in Next Goal Wins, a rare Hollywood film with a predominantly Pacific Islander cast, including legends like Oscar Kightley and Rachel House. What did you take away from that experience? Do you have any favorite behind-the-scenes memories with Taika? If you could work with any Pacific Islander, who would it be and why? You've been open about not speaking Tongan when you were young, which made it harder to connect with your community and culture. Though I believe you later learned the language, this is a common struggle for many Pacific Islanders across the diaspora, whether in the US, Australia, NZ, or anywhere else. What would say to anyone who doesn't speak their mother tongue and feels a bit disconnected? What would your dream role be? What advice do you have for young Pacific Islander creatives? Finally, what does being Pacific Islander mean to you? Thank you for chatting with us, Uli! Be sure to keep up with Uli here.
