Date: 30 Jan 2024
Senior Television Producer,
Vanuatu Broadcasting and Television Corporation
Can you briefly introduce yourself – in what capacity did you work and engage with BOP?
I am Moses Cakau and I work for the Vanuatu Broadcasting and Television Corporation as a Senior Television Producer. I got involved with the BOP documentary series, ‘Tru the Lens’, as the director and producer of the pilot episode on two Lelei Pawas of the aviation industry, Katura Marae and Stephanie Tarileo. It was through this connection with BOP that I was first introduced to the journey of empowering women. It was amazing to experience how a program like Balance of Power can help impact and influence mindsets of ni-Vanuatu people.
Tell us how the ‘Tru the Lens’ film project has shaped and influenced your craft as a producer and your views on women in leadership/shared leadership?
I have to be honest, I was glad when I was given this project, as it has never been done before in Vanuatu – this is the first of its kind. This project resonated with me; I grew up in an environment where my mom and her sisters are seen as pillars of our family, and they are also very influential and prominent in our community. Therefore, when I was given the opportunity to work with BOP, to direct and produce the pilot episode of the ‘Tru the Lens’ series, I was pleased and honored because I could show to Vanuatu the strength of our mamas through the eyes of two amazing and prominent pilots, Katura and Stephanie.
As a TV producer, I felt like this was my perfect storm – capturing and creating this film was more than just a deliverable, I wanted this film to have an outcome. I wanted this film to inspire young girls to be committed to their journey, to be strong and bold and work towards achieving their goals, amid all the challenges that life brings..
In addition, the ‘Tru the Lens’ project with BOP has proven that the formula to empower our women is by being part of their journey. It is about involving men in the conversations. And through this film, my team, especially the men, got to see the importance of the role that women play, the importance of women’s leadership, of empowering women to realise their leadership potential. Thanks to BOP for allowing us to be part of a journey that unfolds powerful stories.
In your opinion – how have the Balance of Power ‘Tru the Lens’ films influenced or changed your view on leadership and on inclusive and shared leadership in the community?
I believe the screening of these films has inspired and influenced communities across Vanuatu. Today we have the biggest village of Vanuatu, Mele, put aside their differences and elect Julia King into Parliament. How cool is that? She did not need special treatment to get into Parliament, she didn’t need a reserved seat, laws did not need to be changed – all it needed was a mental shift, a change of mindsets. So today we have a Pawa Sista in Parliament, Julia King went into parliament without any special assistance or legislation. Even though there is still so much more to be done and more mindsets need to change, progress is coming – Wan Tru Pawa Woman!
In your opinion, what role might BOP continue to play in promoting women’s leadership?
I think BOP tapping into a film makers lens is a powerful tool. We must continue to tell these stories, we must portray the stories of our women, the struggles, and successes. In today’s times of uncertainties, we must prepare our young men and women to stand together. Especially prepare young men to stand beside women and learn to empower, love, and support each other. Therefore, having a balance of power is key. We need to continue to engage men in the journey; involving men in the journey and the conversations is how we will see change.