Living Da Best Life

I can honestly say this year so far has been the most challenging. We all go through ups and downs. Thankfully after passing one obstacle, you can look back and say "Wow, look what I've done, I made it through and have accomplished so much -- then continue to move forward." I always strive to keep looking up and forward. Once one thing is complete then it's on to the next. 

A few months ago I set out to (in addition to my personal life, my business and career) create a new platform. I spent the time getting Da Best Hawaii (registered, website, social media, DCCA) ready and started working on this new video series that would highlight everything we love about Hawaii. It has come easily. My friends and supporters loved the idea and as it has grown (launched on June 1st) I realized people started to believe in the idea as much as I did. 

I didn't set out to feature only food, in fact one of the themes I wanted to showcase was the great outdoors and retail. But the food features came naturally and all my chef friends were willing and able to be on camera, so we did it. Now I am booked through the next 3 months with content for the show. 

I am also truly ecstatic to share that the series will also be available (beginning July 1st) via Video On Demand on Hawaiian TelCom. Even more so I have to produce these weekly webisodes and continue to create new content. You could only imagine my excitement that this little idea I had was flourishing. 

I've reached out to some of my favorite businesses and wanted to do more than just cuisine, but I guess in time it will come. For now the schedule is pretty food heavy, but I am really enjoying sharing the stories behind the dishes and getting to learn more about the people behind the business. Ultimately, I want to support local people, local businesses and do great story telling that is meaning, impactful and positive for the entire community. 

You would never know Chef Lee Anne Wong started out in fashion design, Chef Russell Siu was a math major and wanted to work in accounting, Ai Love Nalo isn't really a restaurant but more of a community center for Waimanalo Residents to learn how to eat healthier and the couple from Ubae Hawaii quit their real jobs and set-out to start their own family-run business and spend more time with their children. These stories and these inspirational messages have compelled me to keep going and continue to do what I do because I know it's the right thing!

Know a business that should be featured on Da Best Hawaii? Feel free to email me. To be featured is entirely no charge and I provide the business with all the videos, photos and cross promotion online as well. olenaheu@outlook.com Or visit www.dabesthawaii.com 

---