The primary purpose of Nuanua Media Communications (Nuanua) is “to strengthen the social and cultural fabric of our community through the art of media.” The project is made possible through a 3-year funding (2008-2011) from the U.S. Administration for Native Americans (ANA) to develop job and leadership skills of young Samoans between the ages of 12 and 21.

Nuanua aims to engage young people in exploring their identities and creativity through the process of critical thinking, problem-solving & decision-making, and self-expression. Through these processes, young people will begin to understand their responsibility, as individuals in society, which will encourage them to initiate positive changes. Technically, they will learn how to use the camera to document and communicate the unique traditions and complex issues of our ever-changing society.

Young people do not work in isolation rather they thrive when they are exposed to diverse experiences. The intergenerational component of Nuanua will involve young people to work with the elderly, aged 60 years and over, to learn about cultural values and protocols, and how to sustain these components among youth and families. This learning will provide the opportunity for the elderly to share their faith and wisdom, thereby influencing the youth to take ownership of their culture, communities and society at large.

As training is provided by industry professionals, young people will develop their ideas into powerful stories. These ideas will be demonstrated through historical projects, video documentaries, music videos and public service announcements; all of which will focus on significant issues selected by the students. Through the utilization of media, young people will be given the necessary skills in assigning images to their voices. Video and digital work development is an additional benefit that will compliment the development of individual character that results from participating in Nuanua.

Partnership with key stakeholders, as well as parent involvement, are vital components of Nuanua because it contributes to the continued growth and long-term sustenance of the young people we serve.

Nuanua is translated as “rainbow”, which significantly represents hope and a God-given promise. It is our hope that our people will thrive with limitless potentials to explore the beauty of our island communities, and cultural heritage, through the eyes of our youth.

Elders
If you are native Samoan over 60 years old and young at heart, and would like to be involved in the mentorship of young people by sharing your cultural values and traditions, we welcome your participation. Read up on the Nuanua Media Communications project and apply online, or give us a call at 699-5313 and ask for Li’a or Loso.

Video Competition
The first video competition will be held on April 24, 2010. The competition will be limited to Nuanua participants, which will include group entries as well as individual entries. Check back soon for criteria and categories.

Classes
Learn how to unleash your creativity, operate professional video cameras, edit on Final Cut Pro, and much more through our media classes. Join us if you are interested in pursuing a career in the field of media communications or if you simply want to explore if this is for you. Enroll now!