TALK STORY

MOST RECENT STORIES

Forged in Strength, Filled with Grace: A Woman’s Path to Peace

Grace Tueli is known for her infectious smile, warm personality, and ability to brighten any room she enters. A former beauty queen, honors graduate of Brigham Young University–Hawaii, and Spirit of Aloha Award recipient, she appears to embody success. Yet behind those achievements is a story of sacrifice, resilience, and transformation. From a career in air traffic control in Fiji to becoming a devoted wife, mother, and student, Grace’s journey has been shaped by faith, difficult choices, and a commitment to growth. Her story is a testament to the power of change, family, and trusting God’s plan.

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Elvis and his impact on PCC canoes

Few people realize that Elvis Presley, the famous “king of rock and roll,” helped shape one of the Polynesian Cultural Center most popular traditions — our iconic canoe tour and special; and some of those who do, are mis-remembering his “wedding canoe” ride.

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Guided by Faith: Almay’s Journey to Purpose at the PCC

Guided by faith and shaped through unexpected trials, Almay Velasco’s journey from Cebu, Philippines, to the Polynesian Cultural Center reflects resilience, gratitude, and trust in God’s plan. As a student at Brigham Young University–Hawaii and a lead tour guide, Almay has faced life-changing storms, family hardship, and moments of uncertainty that deepened her faith and strengthened her desire to serve others. Through every challenge, she learned to embrace patience, remain open to God’s guidance, and lead with compassion—principles that now shape the way she creates meaningful experiences for guests from around the world.

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Temple Service and Embracing ‘Ohana

Kalilimoku Sola August Hunt and Tuputausi May Asayo Hirata Hunt, Polynesian Cultural Center alumni, have been called to serve as president and matron of the Pago Pago American Samoa Temple. Their journey—from PCC service to Church and civic leadership—reflects a lifetime of faith, cultural pride, and devotion to helping others experience the blessings of the temple.

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Faith, Formulas, and the Piano: The Journey of Kwun Sung “Ivan” Lee

Equally gifted at a piano and computer keyboard, Kwun Fung “Ivan” Lee blends faith, intellect, and innovation in remarkable ways. A BYU–Hawaii science and mathematics major, he balances research at the PCC with a passion for music. Guided by a patriarchal blessing, Ivan chose education over comfort—building systems that serve others while pursuing purpose beyond success.

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Younger_Steve

From 16mm to Streaming: How PCC’S story of Aloha endures

Matuauto Steve Lāʻulu, Island Manager at the Polynesian Cultural Center, reflects on his journey from student employee to leader, shaped by culture, hard work, and opportunity. Featured in The Aloha Experiment (1978) and now witnessing Sharing Aloha (2025), Lāʻulu sees both films as testaments to cultural preservation and student empowerment. For him, the PCC is a living museum—one that preserves Pacific Island heritage while providing life-changing educational opportunities for students far from home.

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