School: Ka’u High School

Career: Director and Producer

 
 

Kolby Akamu Moser's journey from a small town in Ka’u, Hawai’i, to a successful filmmaker and entrepreneur is a tale of seizing opportunities and self-belief. Raised in a community that valued strength and self-reliance, Kolby cherished her simple yet fulfilling childhood. Her high school years were marked by an absence of limits and a wealth of opportunities, which she fully embraced. This mindset, fostered from an early age, fueled her aspirations to explore beyond her hometown and make a significant impact in the world.

Her path to success began at the University of Hawai'i at Hilo, initially for volleyball, which serendipitously led to a pivotal internship in news production with Liz Chun at KGMB (now Hawai’i News Now). Kolby's career in news was marked by hard work, determination, and a rapid rise to becoming a young news producer. However, her ambitions evolved, leading her to leave news production and start Aria Studios, a wedding and filmmaking company. Her transition to entrepreneurship was challenging yet rewarding, especially as she navigated the complexities of being a working mom.

Kolby's journey is not just about professional success; it's deeply intertwined with her Hawaiian heritage and cultural identity. Her project, Hometown Legends, is a homage to her roots, focusing on the stories of local heroes/kūpuna. This project underscores her commitment to preserving and sharing Hawaiian culture, a connection she deeply values. Her advice for success is grounded in authenticity and balance, emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and finding harmony between professional achievements and personal fulfillment.

 


Previous
Previous

Kimié Miner

Next
Next

Kuhaʻo Zane