Media release

19 April 2010

Creative career paths for Pacific youth

Manukau's first Creative Careers Youth Expo for young Pacific people is being held in May, aiming to empower youth to turn what they love doing into a successful career. The expo, part of the inaugural Manukau Pacific Arts Summit, recognises that creativity is inherent in Pacific people and that Pacific youth have huge potential in the creative sector.

Youth, their families and teachers are welcomed by Manukau City Council to hear first-hand from young Pacific creative professionals how they set upon their pathway and the social challenges and financial realities they have encountered.

Speakers represent a range of different creative disciplines and careers and each has a unique set of experiences and wisdom to share with youth who want to follow in their footsteps.

Musician Opeloge Ah Sam has held a wide range of musical roles over the last 15 years, including composer, conductor, professional pianist, musical stage manager, MC, event manager and solo and group performer in styles including jazz, R&B, classical and popular music.

Artist Monty Collins works with a broad array of media including graphic design, aerosol art and tattooing. He is particularly known for his masterful character work that has gained him Manukau-wide renown as part of the FDKNS crew.

Otara-based Leilani Kake is a video installation artist who holds a Bachelor of Visual Arts and graduate Diploma of Fine Arts from the University of Auckland at Manukau. She regularly exhibits nationally and internationally and currently lectures contextual studies at the Manukau School of Visual Arts.

Actor Stacey Leilua has appeared on television on Shortland Street, Kila Kokonut Krew and Good Hands Lima Lelei, as well as in multiple theatre productions in both Auckland and Wellington.

Television producer Joe Taele graduated with a Bachelor of Screen Performing Arts majoring in Editing from Unitec and now works for Sky Sports. He has also edited a great number of experimental and short films.

Tertiary education providers and support organisations will also be present to provide information about their role in helping young people into creative careers.

Registration is essential for this free event, for more information please email Brett.Stirling@manukau.govt.nz or phone Nicole Lim on 09 271 6019.

What:              Creative Careers Youth Expo

Presented as part of the 2010 Manukau Pacific Arts Summit

When:             Saturday 1 May, 10am–4pm.

Where:            Otara Music Arts Centre, Otara Town Centre, Cnr Newbury and Bairds Road,

Otara

Cost:               Free, registration required.

ENDS

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