Koror, Palau — In sweltering heat, sudden downpours, and under daily deadline pressure, a young team of Palauan journalists and media volunteers made history. Over ten days of the 2025 Pacific Mini Games, they produced The Daily Highlight Program (DHP) — a fast-paced, 30-minute live broadcast that captured the competition, culture, and heart of the Pacific’s biggest regional sporting event.
Most of the reporters, cameramen, producers, and editors had no professional background in media. Yet they delivered 10 polished shows covering 14 sports — the first project of its kind in Palau — and in doing so, launched a new generation of storytellers for the nation and the region.
“It was incredible to witness so many young people, most with no prior experience, step up to one of the most daunting media projects,” said Olkeriil Kazuo, Media Chair of the Pacific Mini Games Organizing Committee. “What began with fear and uncertainty transformed into a powerful journey of growth. Through pressure, challenge, and doubt, the trainers saw potential where others might see risk.”
Inside the Grind: Sports, Sun, and Storytelling
Each morning, teams of reporters and cameramen were dispatched to cover competitions across Palau — from wrestling and track to beach volleyball and open water swimming. They worked through the elements, navigated last-minute changes, and rushed back to base by early afternoon to file footage, write scripts, and record voiceovers for that evening’s show.
“I learned how to communicate and socialize with other people,” said Anette, one of the reporters. “It expanded my knowledge and made me more curious about doing media after college.”
Faith Chen reflected on learning to adapt under pressure:
“Not everything goes according to plan, but if you’re flexible, you can still get the task done. I’d definitely want to do this again.”
Ngeldei Tulop said the experience taught her the power of risk and growth:
“It can be scary at first, but unless you take that leap, you won’t know what valuable experiences you might gain. It’s helping me grow personally — and I hope it inspires others too.”
Cameramen like Matt, Daigo, Oatis Croakis Jr., and Shandon Eichi shared their own lessons.
“I learned how to work as a team,” said Daigo. “Yes, I would love to work on more projects like this.”
“I signed up not knowing much and ended up learning a lot,” said Oatis.
“Regret nothing and don’t listen to people who have nothing to do with your work,” added Shandon.
Even those behind the scenes found growth.
“I stepped out of my comfort zone and tested my abilities in photography and media,” said Shyanna, who ran social media for the project. “It was a great start. I’d love to continue this media journey and fully explore the media world.”
“Watching this strong team work so hard to produce the program is a reminder that no matter how many obstacles come your way, being resilient and remembering that the show must go on inspires me to keep moving forward,” said Delanie Termeteet, who anchored several episodes. “It gave me hope and reassurance that Palau’s media sector has capable individuals keeping the story going.”
Behind the Broadcast: Organizing, Producing, and Editing
At the heart of the operation were three story producers — Ohanna Galo, Elilai Rengiil, and Eustoria Borja — who coordinated daily assignments and led two reporting teams each. They ensured every athlete’s story and key game moment made it back to the editing suite on time.
“I learned how to be flexible in different situations,” said Ohanna, who also helped write and shape scripts. “Even when things go wrong, staying calm helps get the job done.”
Three video editors worked under intense daily deadlines to cut footage, sync voiceovers, and deliver a full show that aired each night. Their work brought together the voices, visuals, and emotions that made DHP a highlight of the Games — not just for Palauans, but for audiences across the Pacific.
Trainers Who Believed in Them
The success of the DHP was made possible through the support of three international media professionals who mentored the youth team from day one:
- Paul Vunituraga, a broadcast veteran with over 14 years of industry experience in live production and event coverage;
Aaron Kearney, an internationally acclaimed journalist and sports broadcaster; - Sally Eeles, an executive producer and Walkley Award-winning journalist with over three decades of broadcast experience.
“This team’s enthusiasm and commitment were second to none,” said Sally Eeles. “The way the young people absorbed so much information in such a short time was inspiring. With belief in themselves and each other, they knew they could, and would, achieve. I am impressed by everything they accomplished during the Games and am proud to have played a small role in supporting them. I hope they continue to develop their skills in media.”
“Palau can be truly proud of the characteristics of this young team — mature, hardworking, respectful, proud of their nation,” said Aaron Kearney. “They have been shown the way by patient, knowledgeable, and professional senior leaders. The DHP project has showcased the very best of Palau to the world.”
A Legacy Beyond the Games
As the 2025 Pacific Mini Games came to a close, the youth-led broadcast team had produced 10 full shows, dozens of athlete profiles, and hours of original footage — but more importantly, they launched a media movement.
“Together, we built not just a team,” said Kazuo, “but a new foundation for media — driven by courage, grit, friendship, and an unshakable love for storytelling. What we achieved didn’t just break barriers… it redefined them.”
From first-timers to confident content creators, Palau’s young journalists proved that with opportunity, mentorship, and trust, they could meet the moment — and inspire a new media future for their nation and the Pacific.