We recently connected with Hinano Tanielu and have shared our conversation below.
Hinano, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
I derive my resilience from the trials and tribulations of my past. Growing up, I faced a series of challenging, life-altering events that left me feeling voiceless and steeped in fear. Unseen and unheard, I found myself spiraling into a vortex of pain that manifested itself as drug and alcohol abuse. This dark phase further fueled thoughts of self-harm and suicide, a painful testament to the fear and desolation I was experiencing. However, amidst this deep rooted adversity, I found a beacon of hope – a choice. I realized I could either surrender to the perpetual cycle of depression and despair, or I could harness this pain and transform it into my strength. I chose resilience. I chose to rescue myself, to fight, to rise above the challenges.
It was in this decision where I found my voice, my resilience. I learned to stand up for myself, to speak out against the fear that once silenced me. And beyond that, I found the strength to become a voice for others who are too afraid to speak for themselves.
Resilience, for me, is not just about enduring. It’s about transforming pain into power, fear into courage, and silence into a voice for change.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
My name is Hinano Tanielu, and I am a proud Tahitian Hawaiian. Born and raised in Santa Ana, California, I now call Southern Utah my home. I am deeply passionate about empowering Pacific Islanders, particularly women and young people. I am committed to bringing mental health awareness to my community, giving voice to the unheard, sharing indigenous American stories, and using storytelling as a powerful tool to inspire change. As the co-CEO of ManuScript Films, I have the privilege of bringing my passions to life. Our company is a Polynesian independent film production company with a clear mission: we aim to raise awareness, motivate, inspire, and empower Pacific Islanders through visual storytelling. All our narratives are inspired by true events and serve to encourage individuals to realize their full potential, free from self-imposed limits.
Our focus is to confront the taboo topics within the Polynesian culture head-on and bring them into the spotlight through the medium of film. Moreover, we aim to enhance representation of the Polynesian culture both on-screen and behind the scenes.
My vision for the future is to produce more films that create impactful dialogues, dismantle stereotypes, and give an authentic voice to our people. We believe in the transformative power of storytelling and the change it can bring about in our community and the wider society.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Resilience: Resilience is about bouncing back from setbacks and continuing to move forward despite adversity. I had to see challenges as opportunities for growth, rather than as insurmountable obstacles. I also had to remain focused on my goals, even when things didn’t always go as planned. Mental exercises such as meditation helped me manage stress and cultivate a resilient mindset.
Courage: Courage involves taking risks and stepping outside of your comfort zone, even when it’s scary or uncertain. I started by taking small risks and gradually pushing myself to take on bigger challenges. Standing up for my beliefs and values, even when they were unpopular and questioned. I didn’t see my setbacks as failure, but rather a stepping stone on the path to success.
Confidence: Confidence is about believing in your own abilities and worth. I started by setting and achieving small goals. It was also important that I surrounded myself with positive influences who supported and encouraged me. I had to remind myself that everyone makes mistakes and has doubts; it’s part of being human. But with practice and persistence, I knew I could grow my confidence.
For those who are early in their journey, my advice would be to take the time to understand yourself—your strengths, weaknesses, passions, and goals. Be patient with yourself and recognize that growth and development is a process that takes time. Learn from your failures and use them as stepping stones to success. Cultivate a growth mindset, seek out mentors and support, and never stop learning. Remember that everyone’s journey is unique, so try not to compare yourself to others. Instead, focus on your own progress and celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
From the very beginning, my husband, Manu, saw my potential. When I questioned myself, he firmly believed that I was destined to be a leader. With his unwavering support and guidance, he has been instrumental in helping me conquer my fears and develop into a strong leader. He believed in my potential and encouraged me to pursue my dreams without hesitation. His mentorship has instilled confidence in me, allowing me to face challenges head-on and grow personally and professionally. I am truly grateful for everything he has done for me, and I now feel empowered to embrace my leadership role and strive towards achieving my goals with newfound determination and courage.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.manuscriptfilms.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sosefinamovie/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sosefinamovie
- Twitter: https://www.tiktok.com/@sosefinamovie
- Youtube: ManuScript Films
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesosefinamovie
Image Credits
Kaylani Quiocho
