Our Initiatives

Moananuiākea is an organization committed to the conservation of culture and wildlife in the Pacific Islands. Timothy journeys across various Pacific island nations to document the stories and images of local communities, emphasizing wildlife and cultural preservation.

Community Photography

In today's world, we increasingly depend on digital methods to capture our identities. Sending letters and printing physical photographs has become increasingly uncommon. For remote communities in the Pacific Islands, tangible images are especially scarce. Therefore, I make it a point to visit these communities, take photographs, and print them on the spot at no cost.

Cultural Conservation

Cultural Conservation

In today's globalized world, an increasing number of individuals are relocating abroad for education and employment opportunities. This trend often hinders elders from transmitting traditional lifestyles to the younger generation, which encompasses art, language, and dance. My goal is to document these cultural practices though films ,exhibits and create classes to preserve and share them.

Wildlife Conservation

The Pacific region is currently experiencing the highest rates of extinction. In Hawai’i, we are grappling with the invasive Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle, which poses a threat to palms as well as various other plant species. This invasive pest has made its way across the Pacific, and during my travels, I have engaged with locals to learn about their efforts to combat its spread. When I shared the situation on O’ahu, they were taken aback. In Samoa, I was told, “There will always be coconut trees, coconut trees everywhere.”

My aim is to develop materials and workshops that educate locals on how to conserve and protect their environments from invasive species, while also focusing on the preservation of their endemic species.

Museums Exhibits

Museum Exhibits

I have always had a passion for AZA zoos, aquariums, and museums, but few have managed to present the educational component in such a stunning manner. Nowadays, information is frequently conveyed through a single medium—whether it’s text on a wall, a video, or an artifact accompanied by a fact. My aim is to encompass every dimension, allowing all visitors to engage their senses fully and leave with a memorable experience. I hope that those who experience it will feel inspired to protect and care for these cultures and natural environments.

Education Programs

Last year, I had the honor of teaching Pacific Island art and culture to middle school students in Kansas. This experience proved to be both incredibly rewarding and somewhat challenging. Additionally, on O’ahu, I managed an outreach program where I set up a tent and table showcasing displays centered around cultural conservation.

Currently, I am creating new materials for classrooms and organizing classes at local libraries and community centers.