PEAK Writers Fellowship: Elevating Emerging Pasifika Voices
The Pasifika Entertainment Advancement Komiti has proudly unveiled the second cohort of its annual PEAK Writers Fellowship. This initiative is dedicated to identifying and nurturing the talents of emerging writers with roots in the Pasifika community. The second cohort features five standout individuals: Benjamin Pola, Pingi Moli, Ciara Lacy, Lauren Toʻomalatai, and Conrad Lihilihi, each of whom is set to bring unique narratives and perspectives to the forefront of television.
A Unique Opportunity Backed by Industry Giants
Supported by Netflix, the PEAK Writers Fellowship is designed to guide emerging writers in launching their careers in television. This program empowers Pasifika voices by offering tailored mentorship and resources that are critically necessary in this competitive industry. Established by Dana Ledoux Miller, a co-founder of PEAK, and co-managed by program director Bryson Chun, this fellowship stands out as the only Hollywood writing program created specifically by a Pasifika storyteller.
The fellowship aims to facilitate the transition of talented writers into their first staff writing roles. Each fellow is paired with a seasoned mentor from the industry, who plays a significant role in refining the writers’ original scripts. The programming includes a series of informative panels and discussions featuring leading voices in film and television. This structure ensures that the fellows acquire the essential tools and insights necessary to thrive in the entertainment industry.
Mentorship from Industry Leaders
The 2023 cohort will benefit from the guidance of noteworthy industry professionals: Migizi Pensoneau (“Reservation Dogs,” “Alien: Earth”), Dre Ryan (“Lady in the Lake”), Elsie Choi (CJ ENM America/Studio Dragon Global), Alex Lazarowich (“Resident Alien”), and Jody Lambert (“People Like Us”). Their diverse backgrounds and experiences are instrumental in helping each participant hone their craft.
Kristian Fanene Schmidt, executive director and co-founder of PEAK, expressed his admiration for Dana’s ability to amplify the voices of up-and-coming writers. He emphasized the profound impact they can have on the industry and noted the incredible caliber of storytelling that this cohort brings. "They’re a reminder of how promising our future is,” he remarked.
Profiles of the 2023 Cohort
Benjamin Pola – “Kinship”
Benjamin Pola is a proud Sāmoan writer based in Long Beach, CA. His upcoming project, “Kinship,” revolves around a Samoan teenager navigating the complexities of living with his Mormon uncle, relying on his charming personality and quick wit to adapt to his new surroundings. With a graduate degree from USC’s Annenberg School, Pola shifted his focus toward screenwriting to harness the potent storytelling capabilities of media. He is also working on his short film, “Tuimaseve,” set to premiere at the 2026 Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival.
Pingi Moli – “North Shore”
Pingi Moli, a first-generation Tongan American, explores powerful familial ties in his project “North Shore.” The narrative focuses on the Kualiʻi family, who are embroiled in a battle to defend their ancestral land against a myriad of forces. Moli, having gained a reputation in stunts through films like “Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw,” continues to leverage his athletic background in his storytelling.
Ciara Lacy – “Pet Psychic”
With a sharp tongue and a reluctant spirit, Ciara Lacy introduces a unique blend of comedy and insight in her project “Pet Psychic.” This narrative explores the whimsical life of a reluctant pet psychic navigating Brooklyn’s eccentric pet owners. Lacy’s impressive portfolio includes showcasing her works at prestigious festivals like Sundance and Berlinale, bringing forth powerful narratives that resonate widely.
Lauren Toʻomalatai – “The Moana Guild”
Lauren Toʻomalatai, a Sāmoan filmmaker, presents “The Moana Guild,” which takes audiences on an exploration of family and legacy after the death of her protagonist’s mother. As a lead programmer for the Māsima Film Festival, Toʻomalatai is dedicated to elevating Pacific Island stories and voices within the industry.
Conrad Lihilihi – “Aloha, Please Hold”
Conrad Lihilihi uses his humorous lens to tackle contemporary issues in his project “Aloha, Please Hold.” The narrative offers a comedic yet insightful peek into the dynamics of the hospitality industry in Hawaii. Lihilihi’s knack for genre blend aims to tackle cultural themes through an entertaining format that educates and informs.
Conclusion
The second cohort of the PEAK Writers Fellowship symbolizes a significant step forward in increasing representation and diverse storytelling within Hollywood. With the backing of seasoned mentors and a supportive framework, these five writers are poised to make substantial contributions to the entertainment industry. Their unique stories promise to resonate with audiences, ensuring that Pasifika narratives are heard and celebrated.