Today we’d like to introduce you to Loata Toki.
Loata, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My journey first began as a young Polynesian artist in the Dance Industry. I trained as a professional Tahitian dancer for ten years with the group Nonosina. Under the direction of my amazing family Tiana Liufau, Riki Liufau, Mevina Liufau, and the founder my beautiful Gramz…Estella Reed!
I’ve performed in many great venues, competed in many solo competitions, had the opportunity to travel to the beautiful Island of Tahiti In 2019, and even had the opportunity to meet, train, and learn from Title Winning Professional World International dancers such as Moena, Matatini Mou, Miss Aloha Hula 2010 Mahealani Mika Hirao-Solemn, and Poemoana! As music was always involved in my life, I never really began till after a certain period of time in my high school freshman year. I then decided to pursue my passion for my music career and to begin professional training! I began and am currently attending the Inland Conservatory of the Performing Arts. This is under the direction of Professor Marcus Coleman. I gained an immense amount of knowledge in my short time with the school such as Music Technology, Music theory, Music History, and even a career path in college for Music Business! I joined a band/Music course with my school called the ICPA Rock and Pop Band! In the band/class we learn songs from many different musical genres to add into our repertoire as artist. I’ve used and performed many of these songs on gigs that I get the opportunity to travel and perform for. It has been such a helpful tool to my knowledge and beneficial factor to pursuing my passion in music! This was all under the direction of a great man and my Professor Marcus Coleman.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I would definitely say it has not been a smooth journey, as it shouldn’t be. There have been times of heartache, times of sorrow, times where I felt insecure, and there have been times of triumph. Throughout this journey, it has taught me to learn and absorb as much knowledge as possible. This has evoked growth and thirst to understand and isolate my craft. I have always been struggling to catch up with all of those who have had more training and experience; what I failed to remember is that my desire to better myself and the drive that stays within my center has fueled my passion. It doesn’t matter if this is something that people train for and have been born into, what truly matters is being willing to be exposed and vulnerable enough to allow yourself the growth needed to succeed. I’ve learned that it’s the rough start that counts to see through it to the successful results!
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is knowing that there’s always room for growth and that by leaving your glass half full you can always receive more. Success is when you find happiness in your work and have happiness for the success of others as well. To me, success is having a balance of humility and achievement.
Contact Info:
- Address: Inland Empire
- Website: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCa6WplSiFdeYYN_h6e0nr_g
- Phone: 9095630125
- Email: loatatoki.toki@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/loatatoki?igshid=1sqk2opnf8z7r
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loata.toki.50
Image Credit:
Toni Williams, Heiarii Tuihani
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