About Us

PIC is a member of the National Multicultural Alliance (NMCA), which collectively addresses the need for programming that reflects America's growing ethnic and cultural diversity. 

 

Who We Are

PIC's staff members are devoted to bringing life to the organization's mission, and creating a space for Pacific Islanders to share their voices through the language of film. 

Our Mission 

The mission of Pacific Islanders in Communications (PIC) is to support, advance, and develop Pacific Island media content and talent that results in a deeper understanding of Pacific Island history, culture, and contemporary challenges.

 

Meet the Team

 

Cheryl Hirasa

Executive Director

chirasa@piccom.org

 

Maluhia Kaimikaua Snook

Director of Operations

mkaimikaua@piccom.org

 

Keoni Kailimai

Director of Programs

kkailimai@piccom.org

 

Kainoa Rudolfo

Program Manager

krudolfo@piccom.org

 

Haʻaheo Auwae-Dekker

Program Manager

hauwaedekker@piccom.org

 

Athena Taitingfong

Content & Engagement Coordinator

ataitingfong@piccom.org

 

Anastasia Magele Shirai

Administrative & Program Assistant

ashirai@piccom.org

 

Amber McClure

Special Projects Manager

amberm@piccom.org


 

In Loving Memory of Leanne Kaʻiulani Ferrer

Leanne Kaʻiulani Ferrer was Executive Director of Pacific Islanders in Communications (PIC).  She was an award-winning filmmaker with over 30 years of experience in the film and television industry. Leanne was with PIC for over 10 years where she was responsible for the overall health of the organization while building networks and strategic partnerships. Leanne was a Fellow for the Chief Executive Program of the National Arts Strategies, Juror for Festival International du Film documentaire Océanien (FIFO) in Tahiti, Board President for Hawai‘i Women in Filmmaking, and on the Good Pitch Local - Hawai'i Steering Committee.
 

Two of Leanne's all-time favorite films were The Terminator and Terminator 2: Judgment Day (Special Editions, uncut). "I can't watch one without the other. The glimpse into the post-apocalyptic future, pending Judgment Day, the T-800 vs. T-1000, dreamy Kyle Reese, Sarah Conner's transformation, great catchphrases, romance, comedy, drama, action, adventure, sci-fi! The entire package, all in two awesome movies! Those are my top desert island downloads!"