Samantha is a highly accomplished and versatile individual, boasting a multifaceted career that spans the realms of acting, modeling, producing, and mindset coaching, with a reputation for unwavering dedication to advocating for and empowering others.
Her remarkable journey is deeply rooted in her upbringing, where she was exposed to the rich cultural diversity that comes with being part of a military family, fostering a profound appreciation for the unique perspectives and traditions that exist across the globe.
This exposure not only shaped her worldview but also instilled in her a deep sense of empathy, compassion, and understanding, allowing her to connect with people from all walks of life and tackle complex social issues with sensitivity and nuance.
Throughout her career, Samantha has leveraged her platform to raise awareness about pressing social and environmental concerns, using her voice to inspire positive change and promote a culture of inclusivity and acceptance.
As a mindset coach, she has helped countless individuals unlock their full potential, empowering them to overcome self-doubt, build resilience, and cultivate a growth mindset that propels them toward success.
With her remarkable blend of creativity, compassion, and expertise, Samantha continues to make a lasting impact on the world, inspiring others to do the same.
At the tender age of seventeen, this remarkable individual etched her name in the annals of history by achieving a groundbreaking feat, thereby becoming the very first African American woman to claim the coveted title of Miss Hawaii Teen USA in the year 2013.
This extraordinary accomplishment served as a springboard for a flourishing modeling career, which has since seen her gracing the catwalk and captivating audiences through her appearances in an impressive array of over twenty national campaigns.
In addition to her extensive modeling endeavors, she has also had the privilege of donning the cover model mantle for several prominent brands, including the renowned Skechers, the health and wellness-focused MindBody, and the esteemed Maui Jim.
Samantha's remarkable career trajectory saw her pivot from a successful modeling career to a thriving acting career, with her relocation to the vibrant city of Los Angeles marking the beginning of an impressive chapter in her professional journey.
As she made the transition, Samantha's dedication to her craft was evident in her rapid accumulation of an impressive acting resume, which boasted a diverse range of roles in feature films for esteemed studios such as Lionsgate, Sony, and Lifetime.
Her impressive filmography was complemented by a series of guest appearances on popular television series, with Samantha's talent and versatility earning her spots on the screens of prominent networks including CBS, ABC, and HBO.
But Samantha's creative endeavors did not stop at acting. She also leveraged her skills behind the camera, showcasing her producing prowess by organizing a Short Film Festival and bringing several of her own short films to life.
Through her multifaceted career, Samantha has established herself as a talented and versatile performer, with a passion for storytelling and a commitment to her craft that has earned her a reputation as a rising star in the entertainment industry.
Samantha's journey took a significant turn in 2019 when she returned to her native Hawaii, driven by a desire to give back to her community and pursue her passion for empowering young people. It was during this period that she founded Time to Talk Hawaii, a pioneering program aimed at equipping teenagers with the essential communication skills necessary to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
In addition to this remarkable achievement, Samantha made history once more in 2019 by becoming the first African American woman to be crowned Miss Hawaii USA. This remarkable feat was further underscored by her impressive performance, as she secured three major awards - Best Interview, Best Swimsuit, and Best Evening Gown - and went on to finish in the Top 10 at the prestigious Miss USA 2020 pageant.
Samantha, a remarkable individual who held the esteemed title of Miss Hawaii USA, dedicated a significant portion of her reign to elevating the voices of the youth and sparking meaningful discussions about racial disparities prevalent in the Hawaiian community.
Throughout her tenure, she embarked on a collaborative journey with local elected officials, working tirelessly to establish the inaugural Honolulu City Youth Commission. This groundbreaking initiative provided a vital platform for young people to actively participate in civic leadership and advocacy, empowering them to make a positive impact on the community.
Through her unwavering commitment to this cause, Samantha created a lasting legacy, fostering a new generation of young leaders who would go on to shape the future of Hawaii.
As the tumultuous aftermath of the George Floyd protests unfolded, Samantha emerged as a stalwart champion for the widespread acknowledgment of Juneteenth in the Aloha State. With unwavering dedication, she spearheaded a coalition of community partners, expertly guiding state legislators through the intricate process of drafting and enacting SB 939. This landmark legislation effectively secured June 19th as a Day of Remembrance, etching a permanent mark on the annals of Hawaiian history.
In the midst of this momentous occasion, Samantha took center stage at the Governor's mansion on June 17, 2021, delivering an impassioned address that underscored the profound importance of recognizing the rich tapestry of Black history and culture woven throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Her words served as a poignant reminder of the power of collective action, as she brought forth a testament to the enduring legacy of the Black experience in the face of adversity.
Samantha's professional journey took a significant turn in the year 2022, as she earned the esteemed distinction of becoming an International Coach Federation (ICF)-accredited mindset coach. With this newfound expertise, she has since devoted her coaching practice to empowering young women, focusing on the development of confidence, resilience, and leadership skills that will serve them well in their personal and professional endeavors.
