Photographing the Night Sky

Learn the basics and necessities to begin your journey as an amateur astrophotographer.

Davin Carvalho

I am a professional videographer and photographer, born and raised here in Hawaii.  My favorite subject to capture is the night sky.  I have been an avid astrophotogapher since 2018 when I got my first Sony mirrorless camera.

Story Premise: The Engine That Drives Your Story

Learn a very simple formula, called the Story Premise, that will give your story clarity, focus, and drive.  Bring a story idea that you are currently trying to develop (be it for a news feature, short film, or feature-length documentary)  and we'll work together in the session to define your Story Premise.

Robert Pennybacker

is a 4th generation Korean-American, born in New Haven, Connecticut and raised in Honolulu, Hawai'i.  He graduated with honors from the USC School of Cinematic Arts, and returned to Hawaii, where he has enjoyed a 40-plus year career as a TV writer, producer, director. In 2011, he helped launch PBS Hawai'i’s HIKI NŌ—the nation’s first statewide student news network—and served as that program’s executive producer for 12 years before transitioning to his current role as the station’s V.P. of Business Development.  Robert has written approximately 30 documentaries for television.  He was a co-executive producer on two documentaries that aired on PBS stations across the country, and he was the co-creator of the nationally distributed PBS series, Pacific Heartbeat.

Acting out your story

How to bring your story life with your on-camera performance

David Rosen

Dave Rosen directs short films, commercials and documentaries. And he’s passionate about helping everyone involved in a production to bring their “A” game to the shoot. He directs at his company, Shooters Film Production.

What Makes a Great Story?

Attendees will learn about the inner workings of a great story. They will delve into the HIKI NŌ Story criteria, which lays out the essential questions that can guide the story-making process toward something compelling and unique. Along the way , they will analyze stories to see where they work and how they could be improved, as well as learn how to develop their own stories more effectively.

Brent Keane

from Kailua, Hawaiʻi developed a passion for media and design during high school. He earned a Visual Communications degree from Collins College, worked in the print industry, and started a company specializing in database-driven websites and photography. He later transitioned into video production at KALO TV and joined PBS Hawai'i's HIKI NŌ team as Editor/Associate Producer. After four years, he became the Director of Learning Initiatives, where he inspires and prepares the next generation for success in the field he's dedicated his career to.

Filming Interviews Like a Pro! 

Calling all young documentarians! Learn how to set up your camera, audio, and lighting equipment to capture high-quality interviews for documentary-style filmmaking.  We'll cover the rule of thirds, depth of field, audio monitoring, and three-point lighting. Youʻll also learn about how to ask good questions and dig a little deeper than surface level when conducting interviews. 

Eleni Gill Avendaño

Fourth-generation storyteller Eleni Avendaño was born and raised on Oʻahu. After working as a reporter at publications including Honolulu Civil Beat, she joined HIKI NŌ on PBS Hawaiʻi as its managing editor. As an independent documentary filmmaker, she most recently directed "Nā Wāhine Buda Kiakahi: The Legacy of Hawaiian Buddhist Women," and "AMEFIL (Amy)" both of which premiered at the Hawaiʻi International Film Festival.

Video Tricks and Treats in Canva

Get ready to unleash your inner video wizard with Canva! In this fun-filled session, you’ll learn jaw-dropping tricks to add magical animations, slick transitions, and eye-popping effects including Zach King tricks!. Whether you're a newbie or a pro, these playful hacks will take your videos from basic to brilliant in no time!  

Erika Sandstrom

Erika is a Digital Learning Coach and Digital Media Teacher grades 6-8 specializing in Green Screen and Video Production. In her 35th year, with additional experience teaching grades 3-6, she created and presented Mindfulness Professional Development globally,  founded @ClubMindful, and serves as a leader for her District’s SEL Team.  Her passion is to help educators, students and parents globally through a movement called 
#MyBreathingBubble which educates others on how to create a personalized breathing bubble to incorporate Mindfulness into everyday tasks and beyond!

Dubbed “Green Screen Gal”, Erika shares her passions as a featured  and keynote speaker at conferences, through professional development, online webinars and courses.  She has hosted LIVE webinars for Wakelet, WeVideo, Adobe, and presented in educational summits, podcasts, as well as Climate Action Day.  Erika also created and co-hosted the 2nd annual Green Screen Summit and was featured on the cover of the of Ed Tech K12 Magazine., and named one of TOP 30 IT Influencers to follow.  Erika’s  dream is to help others harness the power of balancing their MIND, BODY and SPIRITS in creative ways!

REEL FUN!  10 Tricks for Instantly Cooler Videos!

Tired of boring videos? It’s time to level up your storytelling skills with REEL FUN! In this hands-on session, you’ll learn 10 creative filming tricks guaranteed to make your videos stand out on any screen. We’re talking slow-mo for drama, time-lapse for action, jump cuts for style, and stop motion for pure imagination.

You’ll experiment with camera angles and shots that instantly change the mood, match music to your story’s rhythm, and layer in sound effects and transitions that wow your audience. No fancy gear needed... just your creativity and a device that can film. By the end, you’ll walk away ready to produce short films, school projects, or social media reels that look like they were edited by a pro... but made by you.  Lights, camera, creativity… let’s make your stories move!

Erika Sandstrom

Erika is a Digital Learning Coach and Digital Media Teacher grades 6-8 specializing in Green Screen and Video Production. In her 35th year, with additional experience teaching grades 3-6, she created and presented Mindfulness Professional Development globally,  founded @ClubMindful, and serves as a leader for her District’s SEL Team.  Her passion is to help educators, students and parents globally through a movement called #MyBreathingBubble which educates others on how to create a personalized breathing bubble to incorporate Mindfulness into everyday tasks and beyond!

Dubbed “Green Screen Gal”, Erika shares her passions as a featured  and keynote speaker at conferences, through professional development, online webinars and courses.  She has hosted LIVE webinars for Wakelet, WeVideo, Adobe, and presented in educational summits, podcasts, as well as Climate Action Day.  Erika also created and co-hosted the 2nd annual Green Screen Summit and was featured on the cover of the of Ed Tech K12 Magazine., and named one of TOP 30 IT Influencers to follow.  Erika’s  dream is to help others harness the power of balancing their MIND, BODY and SPIRITS in creative ways!

Tell Your Story the Pixar Way with Story Xperiential

In this hands on workshop, participants use the Pixar approach to turn a personal or community idea into a story outline. Participants leave with an original story spine outline and teachers leave with a classroom-ready template and rubrics. No prior experience needed; bring your creativity and curiosity.


Elyse Klaidman

Elyse Klaidman is CEO and Co-Founder of Xperiential (X in a Box, LLC). After 22 years at Pixar—leading Pixar University, Archives, and Exhibitions—she co-founded Xperiential in 2019 to bring industry-connected, real-world learning to students. Xperiential partners with leading practitioners to design authentic lessons and projects that help learners connect passion, academics, and practical application. A community-centered platform, it lets participants learn by doing on real projects. Its first program, Story Xperiential, launched in October 2021 and has engaged 11,000+ participants worldwide.

ʻŌlelo - Integrating Media in Education (Info table right next to the ʻŌlelo Van)

Educators and students are welcome to check in at our "Integrating Media in Education" Info Table right next to our Mobile Production Van Workshop to gain information on ʻŌlelo's educational services and student initiatives in 2026. 

Claudia Pummer

Claudia Pummer is the Education Manager at ʻŌlelo Community Media. Together with her team, she teaches a range of students, from keiki to kūpuna, in service to ʻŌlelo's mission of empowering community voices through media. Her work at ʻŌlelo allows her to combine her interests in education, video production, media studies, and community engagement.

Claudia holds an M.A. in Theater Studies and a Ph.D. in Film Studies. She has taught college courses in film studies and video production at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, the University of Hartford, and the University of Iowa. Before coming to the United States to pursue her graduate studies, she worked in film and television in her native Germany, bringing valuable industry experience to her educational and community work.

Final Cut Pro for iPad

Join us for a session that unleashes your creativity with a touch-first interface optimized for iPad. Final Cut Pro for iPad is a professional video creation app that reimagines video editing for iPad with an all-new touch interface, so you can record, edit, finish, and share your content–all from one portable, powerful device. Participants will have the opportunity to shoot, edit, and share their video during this session (some demo devices available for use during this session).  

Apple Inc.

Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh computer in 1984. Since then Apple has designed products and programs that help unleash the creative potential in every individual, no matter how they learn and what they love to do. Apple Education is dedicated to helping schools around the world expand what’s possible for learning, create new opportunities for teaching, and establish dynamic environments that inspire both.

Motion to Final Cut (Mac)

This session will discuss creating and working with Motion files and Final Cut Pro. We will discuss converting a standard Motion project for use in Final Cut Pro such as using Lower Thirds created in Motion and editable in Final Cut Pro (some demo devices available for use during this session).  

Apple Inc.

Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh computer in 1984. Since then Apple has designed products and programs that help unleash the creative potential in every individual, no matter how they learn and what they love to do. Apple Education is dedicated to helping schools around the world expand what’s possible for learning, create new opportunities for teaching, and establish dynamic environments that inspire both.

Drawing with Apple Pencil on iPad

Learn how to quickly draw a portrait in the Procreate app on iPad in this 60-minute session. We’ll start by taking a selfie and tracing it with Apple Pencil. You’ll practice using drawing tools, brushes, and a color palette to make a one-of-a-kind portrait. Devices will be provided or bring your own

Apple Inc.

Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh computer in 1984. Since then Apple has designed products and programs that help unleash the creative potential in every individual, no matter how they learn and what they love to do. Apple Education is dedicated to helping schools around the world expand what’s possible for learning, create new opportunities for teaching, and establish dynamic environments that inspire both.

Final Cut Pro: Taking your video from good to great (Mac)

This Final Cut Pro session will discuss how to leverage color correction effects and audio enhancements to take your project from good to great. 

Apple Inc.

Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh computer in 1984. Since then Apple has designed products and programs that help unleash the creative potential in every individual, no matter how they learn and what they love to do. Apple Education is dedicated to helping schools around the world expand what’s possible for learning, create new opportunities for teaching, and establish dynamic environments that inspire both.

Mobile Production Van

This workshop allows students to experience a professional multicamera shoot from the inside and outside of a fully-equipped EFP Van. Participants won't just observe—they'll actively participate in creating a simulated live broadcast, working together as a cohesive production crew. 

Students will be able to cycle through various crew positions and practice their on-set communication skills. Key production roles include: 

• Camera Operations:

• Directing

•  Technical Directing/Switching

• Audio Mixing: Operate

• Live Commentary

Alex Miyamoto

has over 13 years of experience in community access television, where he has worn many hats as a producer, director, and technician. In recent years, Alex has shifted his focus to media education, sharing his passion for video production with students across Honolulu. He loves giving young creators hands-on experience with professional tools and inspiring the next generation of storytellers. Alex is excited to showcase the capabilities of the mobile production van and demonstrate how technology can bring learning to life.

Unleashing Pathways in Culture, Arts, Media & Entertainment: Guiding Students from Classroom to Career

In this interactive session, discover the newly developed pathway maps that link high school courses, Early College opportunities, and industry-aligned credentials for the Culture, Arts, Media & Entertainment fields. Dive into detailed maps for each program of study, explore postsecondary options, and equip yourself with resources to support students as they connect their passions with career-ready paths in Hawaiʻi’s creative industries!

Stacie Higgins

has worked in various roles within the University of Hawaiʻi System for 16 years. As the Alignment Specialist for Hawaiʻi P-20, Stacie connects HIDOE’s 13 CTE Pathways with post-secondary programs and local industry. The Hawaiʻi Career Pathways website showcases newly developed pathway maps that align high school pathways and 42 programs of study to post-secondary programs and state workforce needs. Each map is a comprehensive resource, detailing pathway specifics, transfer agreements, admission requirements, Early College course recommendations, costs, transfer options, and related job prospects in Hawaiʻi.

Documentary Art Photography & Working with High-Profile Clients and events

Discover how authentic documentary work can lead to exhibits, awards, and meaningful collaborations with high-profile clients. In this session, I will share my experience & process for creating honest, human-centered imagery. Learn how to strengthen your artistic voice, and grow a career rooted in storytelling and intention.

Jun Tagai​

Since beginning my career in 2001, back when film was still the norm, I’ve built a reputation for an evocative, story-driven approach to photography. With decades behind the camera, long before smartphones existed, I’ve developed an eye that reaches beyond aesthetics to capture connection, emotion, and the quiet stories that define our lives.

Along the way, I’ve exhibited my work in galleries, collaborated with renowned brands, and photographed high-profile clients and celebrities. Awards and recognition have followed, but what matters most to me is creating timeless imagery that allows people to return to their memories again and again.

YouTube and Content Creation

Let me be honest, YouTube has its challenges, not all videos go viral, friends and family on’t share your videos, but a successful YouTuber perseveres for the love of content creation. From my experience, I want to encourage you to get into content creation and start your own thriving YouTube channel. We will discuss content niche, camera equipment, and creative process. As well as highly rewarding opportunities and connections that come with content creation and a Youtube career.

Elton Gemeno-Hing

My name is Elton Gemeno-Hing. I was born and raised on the North Shore of Oahu in Waialua. I currently have a thriving YouTube channel with over 640 videos that includes but is not limited to Hawaii Bike Life, sharing real life experiences, promoting local businesses and quality consumer products. My specialty on a bike are wheelies.

Animation 101: Let's Draw!

Ready to make some animation magic? Grab an iPad and dive into Procreate as we explore the fundamentals of motion, timing, and storytelling. You’ll leave with your first animation and the know-how to keep building toward your own short film!

Daisy Church

Daisy Church is an animator, artist, and educator with over twenty years of experience working in the entertainment industry. Originally from Delaware, she has lived and worked internationally for her work in television, video games, and education. Her work has been seen on Cartoon Network, HBO, MTV, Adult Swim, Nick Jr, Disney Interactive Games, and Disney Playhouse.

Careers in Animation—Roles, Reels & Real Paths

A fun tour of the many careers in animation (story, layout, art, technical, pipeline, production). Do you love animated movies? Whatever your passions and talents are there may be a career opportunity for you in animation. Join us for a  conversation and Q and A session about Pixar and the animation industry.

Tony DeRose

Tony DeRose is a computer scientist and mathematician with over 40 years experience in computer graphics research and development, 23 years of it at Pixar. Prior to Pixar he was a professor of Computer Science & Engineering at the University of Washington. He has always enjoyed teaching, so the opportunity to start an educationally oriented company is a dream come true.

WILL IT CUT??

Learn how to shoot scenes like a pro: with an eye for the edit! Whether you’re making a news feature or a fiction film, knowing what will work in the editing room will help you get the shots you need in production. We’ll cover how to hide a cut in action, how to place the camera for continuity editing, and how moving shots impact the edit. 

Mira Lippold-Johnson

Mira is a director, producer and editor whose films have played at many film festivals across the US. In her role at PBS Hawai‘i, she edits HIKI NŌ episodes and special segments, and supports students and teachers during the production process. She has taught at the University of Texas at Austin and Louisiana State University, and currently teaches editing at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. 

Directing Documentary Films

In a brief introduction to documentary films, students will learn different styles and approaches to telling a non-fiction story.  Finding a story and interview basics will be explored.  Students will learn production strategies such as filming techniques, capturing b-roll, making subjects comfortable, and how to be flexible when initial plans change during filming real people, events and issues.

Lisette Flanary

Independent filmmaker, educator, and hula dancer, Lisette Marie Flanary creates films that celebrate a modern renaissance of the hula dance and Hawaiian culture. She is the writer, producer and director of Lehua Films and her award-winning documentaries, AMERICAN ALOHA: Hula Beyond Hawaiʻi, Nā Kamalei: The Men of Hula, ONE VOICE, and TOKYO HULA have broadcast nationally on public television and shown in film festivals around the world.   All three documentaries in the Hula Trilogy were broadcast on the Pacific Heartbeat Season 10 from Pacific Islanders in Communications in 2021.   Lisette is a graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts and after having lived in New York City for over 20 years, she moved to Hawaiʻi in 2011 and is currently a Professor at the School of Cinematic Arts at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.  She continues to support the local fimmaking community in Hawaiʻi through her work with Good Pitch Local Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi Women in Filmmaking, and ʻOhina Labs.  She recently completed a short documentary film entitled Māhū:  A Trans-Pacific Love Letter and in pre-production on a short narrative film, Wanle.

Finding the Light

How do you light a scene without any lights? Using only the light we can find on site and a few simple tools and materials, we will learn cinematography lighting concepts like key, fill, Rembrandt lighting, far-side key, eye lights and more. 

Rachel Bardin

Rachel Bardin is a cinematographer, director and assistant professor at UH Mānoa.

Mobile Production Van Workshop

This workshop allows students to experience a professional multicamera shoot from the inside and outside of a fully-equipped EFP Van. Participants won't just observe—they'll actively participate in creating a simulated live broadcast, working together as a cohesive production crew. 

Students will be able to cycle through various crew positions and practice their on-set communication skills. Key production roles include: 

• Camera Operations:

• Directing

•  Technical Directing/Switching

• Audio Mixing: Operate

• Live Commentary

Jaycelin Damaso

Jaycelin Damaso graduated with a bachelor’s degree in creative media from the University of Hawai’i-West Oahu. She recently joined ʻŌlelo as an Education Specialist to follow her passion of teaching especially the younger generation how to make films and become a part of the creative media industry.

Mobile Production Van Workshop

This workshop allows students to experience a professional multicamera shoot from the inside and outside of a fully-equipped EFP Van. Participants won't just observe—they'll actively participate in creating a simulated live broadcast, working together as a cohesive production crew. 

Students will be able to cycle through various crew positions and practice their on-set communication skills. Key production roles include: 

• Camera Operations:

• Directing

•  Technical Directing/Switching

• Audio Mixing: Operate

• Live Commentary

Isaiah Sanchez

Isaiah Sanchez is a passionate storyteller and UH-Mānoa Cinematic Arts graduate who specializes in Character Animation. Working in both 2D and 3D animation, he strives to bring ideas to life on screen. At ʻŌlelo, he teaches video production, editing, and DOE-standard animation classes to educators and young creatives. 

Mobile Production Van Workshop

This workshop allows students to experience a professional multicamera shoot from the inside and outside of a fully-equipped EFP Van. Participants won't just observe—they'll actively participate in creating a simulated live broadcast, working together as a cohesive production crew. 

Students will be able to cycle through various crew positions and practice their on-set communication skills. Key production roles include: 

• Camera Operations:

• Directing

•  Technical Directing/Switching

• Audio Mixing: Operate

• Live Commentary

Justin Kuwamura

Justin Kuwamura has worked in video production for over 30 years covering everything from press conferences to theatrical performances and parades to sporting events.  In his journey, he has worked in many phases including camera operator, audio and lighting engineer, director, and producer.  Currently one of only a few Van Technicians, he is constantly training new members in utilizing all equipment offered by ʻŌlelo.

Going Live in 3,2,1: A Day In the Life of Broadcast TV

Hear from professionals in the live broadcast industry. Stories and experiences from a wide range of productions such as Spectrum Sports, Merrie Monarch, Keiki Hula, and more. We will dive deeper into the different positions that make up a live production team and share how you can get your foot in the door. 

Emily Tsuji

Da Crew is an experienced team of broadcast professionals that provides work in all aspects of live and pre-produced television production. The company is made up of skillfully trained directors, producers, camera operators, video/audio engineers, and more. With dedication and passion, Da Crew is the leading local television engineering and production crewing resource in Hawaii. 

The Union Behind Entertainment

An introduction to IATSE 665 and the union that works behind-the-scenes

Tuia'ana Scanlan

President, IATSE 665, IATSE International Trustee, State Workforce Development Council Youth Services Committee, Hawaii AFL-CIO Executive Board Member

Animating Your Path: Breaking Into the Animation Industry with Twiddle Productions Inc

Join us and meet the team at Twiddle productions Inc. for an interactive breakout session that dives into the world of animation—from getting your foot in the door to building a sustainable career. Drawing from real-world industry experience, we’ll share what it’s like working in animation, the different paths into the field, and the skills studios look for today. We’ll also talk about current trends, emerging opportunities, and what the future of animation holds. Time permitting, participants will take part in a hands-on animation exercise designed to spark creativity and give a glimpse into the animation process. Whether you’re just starting out or exploring animation as a career option, this session offers practical insights, honest advice, and inspiration to help you take the next step

Michael Q.Ceballos

With a multifaceted animation career, Michael contributed to many prestigious studios. Notably, at Nickelodeon's "The Angry Beavers," in 2010, he founded Twiddle Productions Inc. in Honolulu, Hawaii, which specializes in entertainment, education, and cultural animation, boasting a global clientele and a multitude of awards. Under his leadership, Twiddle has produced a plethora of impactful projects. 

Among his list of television animation credits, a few iconic shows stand out, including Nickelodeon's "The Angry Beavers," Comedy Central's "Kid Notorious" starring legendary producer Robert Evans, Klasky Csupo's "Duckman," Hanna Barbera's "Dumb and Dumber," and Warner Bros' "Johnny Test." 

Beyond his creative endeavors at Twiddle, he currently spearheads initiatives like the Cultural Animation Film Festival with the Honolulu Museum of Art Doris Duke Theater. Additionally, he has created the Keiki Coding program and books, using the Scratch coding language developed by M.I.T., which strives to inspire and educate through the power of storytelling and technology.

His full list of credits and projects can be found at   www.twiddleproductions.com

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Animating Your Path: Breaking Into the Animation Industry with Twiddle Productions Inc

Join us and meet the team at Twiddle productions Inc. for an interactive breakout session that dives into the world of animation—from getting your foot in the door to building a sustainable career. Drawing from real-world industry experience, we’ll share what it’s like working in animation, the different paths into the field, and the skills studios look for today. We’ll also talk about current trends, emerging opportunities, and what the future of animation holds. Time permitting, participants will take part in a hands-on animation exercise designed to spark creativity and give a glimpse into the animation process. Whether you’re just starting out or exploring animation as a career option, this session offers practical insights, honest advice, and inspiration to help you take the next step

Kai Lono

Kai Lono embarked on his creative journey as an intern for the E Hoomau Hawaiian legend animated project, where his artistic talent quickly became evident. Rising to the role of background lead artist, Kai not only crafted the captivating background style for the E Hoomau series installments The Menehune and The Birds he was also a pivotal part of the visual storytelling. His artistry continued to flourish as a 3D compositor and animator on Maisa - The Chamoru Girl Who Saves Guåhan, a film that has captivated audiences at screenings and festivals around the globe. Most recently, Kai lent his exceptional skills as the CG animator and model maker for The Red Scarf - A Story of Armenian Hope. Beyond animation, his creative passions span music and game development, where he continues to push the boundaries of his artistry.​

"Nothing" - The Power of Told By Students, for Students

In this session Josh Reppun and his What School Could Be teammate, Mel Ching will present a short film titled "Nothing" produced and directed by a high school student, Ava D., from Sacramento, CA. Ava's topic is the kinds of harassment many students experience in school all too often. After the film, Josh and Mel will lead a "student voice seminar" that explores what happens when young people, equipped with the kinds of skills gained at the Shoots Festival, turn their emerging storytelling skills into purposeful visual media that changes minds, impacts behavior, shifts policy and changes the world.  

Josh Reppun

Former chef, hotel manager, history teacher (17 years) and Apple retail sales specialist, Josh Reppun is the What School Could Be Executive Director and host of the What School Could Be Podcast. Josh’s journey reimagining teaching and learning began in 2015 when he saw Ted Dintersmith’s acclaimed documentary, "Most Likely to Succeed." Josh is also the founder of Josh Reppun Productions. He produced and co-directed two films: "Ka Helena Aʻo: The Learning Walk" and "The Innovation Playlist." Josh strives to spotlight creative, imaginative and innovative educators and education leaders around the world. The What School Could Be Podcast, edited by the talented Evan Kurohara with music by pianist Michael Sloan, has now reached nearly 120,000 downloads in over 130 countries. Josh lives in  East Honolulu with his wife, Cheryl. 

Film for Good: How media can support Communities - Black Futures Farm x Film Oregon Workforce Initiative (FOWI)

The Film Oregon Workforce Initiative (FOWI) is committed to developing the next generation of storytellers and training them to apply their skills to support local businesses.  In our pilot, we told the story of Black Futures Farm, an urban farm in Portland (Summer of 2025).  Join us to hear from the FOWI Lead Creative, Steven "The Prof" Cleveland and one of the founders of Black Futures Farm, Malcolm Hoover about the magic of that collaboration.  Come ready for joyous conversation and inspired videos!

Steven "The Prof" Cleveland

Steven was born in Birmingham, Alabama. He discovered his passion for storytelling in Los Angeles. After cutting his teeth in production on music videos for artists ranging from hip-hop icons Dr. Dre and Tupac Shakur to pop artists like Mandy Moore, he was fortunate enough to executive produce commercials & music videos for the likes of the Old Lahaina Luau Company and Grammy Winner Ledisi.

He calls himself "The Prof," a nickname born from his dual life as professional storyteller and college professor. He spent almost two decades in the Bay Area at Cal State University, East Bay as a Black Studies Professor in the Department of Ethnic Studies and a Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) Professor in the Department of History. As a humanities scholar, his work sought to create safe spaces for students to be intentional about who they become, through an exploration of history & culture that emphasizes critical thinking while centering what brings students joy.

He retired to focus on storytelling and developing media-based service-learning curriculum aimed at producing high-quality media by pairing professionals with youth. The marriage of cultural exploration via the arts served him well as both filmmaker and educator. Steven resides in Los Angeles where he wakes up every day working to infuse Black Humanity into a variety of media projects.

Mobile Production Van Workshop

This workshop allows students to experience a professional multicamera shoot from the inside and outside of a fully-equipped EFP Van. Participants won't just observe—they'll actively participate in creating a simulated live broadcast, working together as a cohesive production crew. 

Students will be able to cycle through various crew positions and practice their on-set communication skills. Key production roles include: 

• Camera Operations:

• Directing

•  Technical Directing/Switching

• Audio Mixing: Operate

• Live Commentary

Alex Narimasu

Alex Narimasu recently joined Ōlelo as an education specialist to enable his passion for animation and storytelling. His goal is to help students by giving them the tools and experience they need to bring their imaginations to life.He has a bachelor’s degree in Cinematic Arts from UH-Mānoa and specializes in 2D animation.

Story Premise: The Engine That Drives Your Story

Learn a very simple formula, called the Story Premise, that will give your story clarity, focus, and drive.  Bring a story idea that you are currently trying to develop (be it for a news feature, short film, or feature-length documentary)  and we'll work together in the session to define your Story Premise.

Robert Pennybacker

Robert Pennybacker is a 4th generation Korean-American, born in New Haven, Connecticut and raised in Honolulu, Hawai'i.  He graduated with honors from the USC School of Cinematic Arts, and returned to Hawaii, where he has enjoyed a 40-plus year career as a TV writer, producer, director. In 2011, he helped launch PBS Hawai'i’s HIKI NŌ—the nation’s first statewide student news network—and served as that program’s executive producer for 12 years before transitioning to his current role as the station’s V.P. of Business Development.  Robert has written approximately 30 documentaries for television.  He was a co-executive producer on two documentaries that aired on PBS stations across the country, and he was the co-creator of the nationally distributed PBS series, Pacific Heartbeat.

Behavioral Marketing

TBD

Robyn Keeney

Robyn Keeney grew up without a television, and she’s been in awe of it ever since.  Robyn is the Director of Marketing and Sales at Hawaii News Now, leading the strong station brand and partnering with local business owners to market their brands to an engaged audience.
While she appreciates the traditional powerhouse that is Hawaii News Now, she also loves to play in innovative areas like the HNN streaming app, social media marketing and streaming audio campaigns. 

Robyn holds four Emmys, a couple of Promax awards, and an Eye on Excellence award from CBS.  She’s crossed her fingers through many an Apex award season, but has had to make peace with the honor of being nominated.  She has a passion for marketing, a knack for leadership, and the most understated southern accent of any Ohio native.
 

Anatomy of a great spread: Design, Layout, Flow

Join me for a session on Yearbook layout & design. I will talk about best practices in layout design, and my experience through the years. If you're currently or considering becoming a Yearbook Editor, please join me as we discuss ideas on how to lead your Yearbook staff and create an exemplary book that you can be proud to look back on and say "yeah, I did that!"

Jeffrey Kahakua

This year marks my 5th year as a Yearbook advisor at Kealakehe Intermediate. I am also an Information Systems Analyst in the Hawaii County Information Technology department. I enjoy helping students develop their ideas into a captivating theme and unique layout design! 

From Still to Story

This one-hour workshop introduces students to the creative thinking behind stop-motion animation. Instead of jumping straight into filming, participants will learn how strong animations begin with thoughtful planning—story, movement, timing, and intention. Students will explore how everyday objects, simple characters, and small gestures can come to life through clear concepting. The session will cover idea development, basic story structure, visual planning, and how to think in frames before pressing record. Examples of stop-motion styles and approaches will be shared to help students imagine what’s possible with minimal tools.

Mari Kimoto

Mari Kimoto was born and raised on Oʻahu and is a graduate of Moanalua High School. Her academic journey took her across multiple campuses—UH Mānoa, UH Hilo, and Honolulu Community College—before she ultimately found her way home to UH West Oʻahu, where she recently earned her BA in Creative Media.

Through her senior capstone, Mari developed a strong interest in blending culture, history, family stories, and community through thoughtful design and research-driven storytelling. Her creative practice emphasizes patience, iteration, and close attention to detail.

For her capstone project, Mari created an original cookbook that explored the preservation of plantation history through food. Her work examined the modern kaukau tin, adaptive cuisine, and the evolution of culinary fusion as forms of cultural preservation. Through careful research, visual design, and narrative, she highlighted how food carries memory, resilience, and shared identity across generations.

Mari is now a Graphic Artist at WCIT, an architecture and graphic design firm, where she applies her interdisciplinary background to professional design work—bridging visual communication, history, and community.

Science of Optics

A quick but in-depth overview of what goes into making a modern lens... we'll go over the basic glass types, molds, coatings, and corrections a lens manufacturer has to consider when making a lens! We'll also take a few minutes to show case the latest in mobile architecture and how a lens's relationship with smart devices can change how a creative goes about preparing and producing content.

Marc Morris

A 29 year veteran of the photo imaging industry, Marc started as a custom print tech in film labs, learning color science, printing, and lab management before ever owning a camera. His professional photography career has veered (careened?) from high end jewelry to the Winter X Games. He's been in the field both in sales and technical capacity since 2008; working for Olympus and Sony before finally joining forces with Tamron Lenses in 2015. Favorite oddball photographic achievement: Marc was the first person in the world to capture a panoramic image of the New York City skyline with a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. Some favorite photographers: Baron Wolman, Jerry Uelsmann, Carsten Peter, Anne Day.