2026 HIFILM Producers Lab
The 2026 HIFILM Producers Lab marked an exciting evolution of our lab programming, shifting focus from story development to the vital, often under-recognized role of the producer. Building on the success of the 2025 Storytellers Lab, this new initiative supports Hawai‘i-based producers creating short films, helping them strengthen the creative, logistical, and strategic skills needed to shepherd projects from concept through production. Both programs are made possible through the generous support of The Asian American Foundation (TAAF).
Held at the beautiful Nutridge Estate in Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa State Park, the three-day immersive retreat brought together a cohort of local producers working across various stages of filmmaking—from early development through post-production. With a committed director attached to each project, participants arrived ready to deepen their producing practice and move their films closer to completion.
Throughout the weekend, producers engaged in a dynamic mix of keynote sessions, hands-on workshops, mentorship, and collaborative discussion. Topics ranged from budgeting and scheduling to financing, pitching, and navigating today’s independent film landscape. Grounded in the unique context of Hawai‘i, conversations also explored what it means to produce with intention—centering place, culture, and community while building pathways for stories to reach wider audiences. Participants also enjoyed ono lunches from Moke’s Bread and Breakfast and were fueled throughout the weekend by fresh coffee from Bean About Town, both proud Kaimuki small businesses.
Participants received mentorship from an exceptional group of industry professionals whose varied backgrounds offered a rare, 360-degree view of producing. Angela Lee (Film Independent) grounded the cohort in artist-driven development and navigating the independent film landscape, while Megan Leonard (Seattle International Film Festival) provided key insight into festival strategy, audience positioning, and what makes projects stand out in the programming pipeline. Lia Alicia Mitchel brought a hands-on approach to budgeting, helping participants break down costs, build realistic financial plans, and better understand the economics of their projects. Arom Starr-Paul (Deadliest Catch) worked closely with the cohort on refining their pitch decks, offering practical strategies for clearly communicating story, vision, and market potential. Together, they equipped participants with both the creative and logistical tools needed to move their projects forward with clarity and confidence.
A highlight of the Lab was its culminating event, which featured both the cohort pitch session and a keynote program. Each producer presented their project alongside specific calls for support – whether financial backing, creative collaborators, or production resources — sparking meaningful dialogue and connection, with thoughtful responses from mentors and peers alike. The event also featured keynote reflections from the Lab’s mentors, offering insight into the creative and practical frameworks explored throughout the program.
“We came with a concept and idea that we felt good about, but we knew it needed further development. The lab allowed us to do that with the feedback from great mentors and fellow filmmakers.”
Matt Yamashita, Molokai-based Producer & Director
“I can hardly begin to describe all of the incredible ways that this lab has benefited me. I gained invaluable information on how to pitch a project, how to secure funding, how to manage your budget, and all of the details that go into organizing a production schedule. I have also learned how to be a better storyteller. The mentors and other cohort members provided so much wonderful feedback on how to improve our film concept and tailor it to appeal to different audiences. The mentors gave me great strategies on how to be concise but impactful, and those tools have already come in handy at work. I don’t think I’ve ever been a part of a more kind, sincere, ambitious, intelligent, and compassionate group of people. Even the volunteers were phenomenal and helped me feel like I really belonged in the program. I also loved watching Megan and Lia’s projects and seeing how such incredible people help breathe life into stories that otherwise wouldn’t exist. There is no doubt in my mind that the connections I made during this lab will last a lifetime. Mahalo nui loa.”
Lena Mealaʻaloha Stevens-Ng, Producer
Open to HIFILM members and community organizations, this closing gathering expanded the Lab’s impact beyond the cohort, inviting a wider audience into conversation and connection. Mahalo to our partners and attendees from PIC, Hawai‘i Filmmakers Collective, ‘Ohina Labs, Honolulu Film Office, and others who joined us in support. These exchanges reinforced one of the Lab’s core goals: to cultivate a collaborative ecosystem where producers uplift one another and projects gain real momentum.
