On Thursday, Nov. 4 at 4:00pm HST, join us for our biggest event of the year, our Mana Up 2021 Showcase, as we showcase Hawai‘i’s rising entrepreneurs, up & coming musicians, and more! If you want to know about all things new in Hawai‘i, this event is totally for you. We're so stoked to announce our first mystery guest and the host of our Mana Up 2021 Showcase – Ryan Kalei Tsuji, local TV personality, plus president and CEO of RKT Media Hawaii!
Four years ago, Ryan launched RKT Media Hawaii, a digital media company that produces video content for social and digital platforms. Also on his impressive list of accolades is co-anchoring the Honolulu Star-Advertiser Facebook LIVE show Spotlight Hawaii, and for the past 11 years, serving as a sports commentator for Spectrum Sports covering UH Athletics. He is also the producer behind the award-winning documentary "Rise of the Wahine" film released in 2018. He was named the AMA Young Marketer of Year in 2017, a member of PBN's 40 Under 40 class for 2018, and selected as part of Hawaii Business Magazine's 20 for the next 20 in 2019. Among everything, Ryan also finds time to serve on numerous non-profit boards, is actively engaged in community service projects, and emcees many local events in Hawaii. We sat down and asked Ryan 10 questions to get to know him a little better, learn more below!
Dream job when you were a kid?
Ryan Tsuji (RT): My dream was to be a TV sports commentator for UH games. (Guess things worked out pretty good!)
How did you get involved with UH volleyball?
RT: I got injured my senior year of high school, and ended up going down the coaching route!
Favorite career milestone
RT: I've had the opportunity to work in many different fields, but some of my highlights would have to be attending meetings in the White House while working for the Governor, covering the UH Mens' Volleyball team national championship run earlier this year, hiring my first full time employee at RKT Media, and having a film I produced premiere at the Hawaii International Film Festival.
Favorite House of Mana Up companies
RT: NOHO Home, Kō Hana Rum, Aloha Modern and Banán
Why is supporting local important to you?
RT: As a local entrepreneur myself, I know how difficult and scary it can be to start your own business in Hawaii. We have some of the most talented individuals living in our islands and need to find ways to support one another. By supporting local we not only support our community, but also showcase to the world that we are more than just a tourist destination. We are an island community filled with innovative thinkers, creative designers, and so much more. Keeping money within our state, especially during these difficult times, allows us reward those in our community who are taking a chance and helping to make their dreams a reality.
Best beach in Hawai‘i
RT: Hapuna Beach (Hawai‘i Island)
Go-to place to get a local snack on the island
RT: Foodland Farms
Favorite outdoor weekend activity
RT: Playing beach volleyball
What’s next for you?
RT: Continuing to build RKT Media and expanding our video production services throughout the state and beyond. I’m also entering the food and beverage world with a fun project I’m working on… Stay tuned.
What are you most excited about hosting our Mana Up 2021 Showcase?
RT: To be able to share the stories of these local entrepreneurs, hear their back stories, and learn how they got to be where they are today is what excites me the most.
Stay tuned as we reveal more mystery elements including our entertainment headliner, giveaway prizes and much more! During our event on Nov. 4, we'll also feature special limited-edition products, amazing prizes, exclusive discounts and more. You won't want to miss it – register here now: www.houseofmanaup.com/showcase!
The holiday season is the perfect time to express love and appreciation, and what better way to do so than with thoughtfully curated gifts from House of Mana Up? This year, make your mom’s, auntie’s, or tutu’s holiday extra special by choosing unique treasures that reflect the beauty and charm of Hawaii.
