Brian Kohne

Maui Film Commissioner Brian Kohne will be the guest speaker at 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Sept. 10 at the Rotary Club of Kihei-Wailea.

According to organizers, the film office is dedicated to creating opportunities for local creatives in both education and the industry, while also supporting the needs of visiting professionals and productions.

Kohne has previously emphasized the importance of education and empowerment for local producers and creatives in establishing a meaningful and sustainable motion picture industry.

Kohne is also expected to discuss various initiatives the Maui County Film Office is pursuing and will be available to answer questions during the meeting at Kihei Lutheran Church at 220 Moi Place.

Kohne is an award-winning writer, director and producer, known for his work on films such as “Get A Job” and “Kuleana.” He is also a music producer for Barefoot Natives and Willie K, and a playwright for White Hawaiian in collaboration with Eric Gilliom.

A graduate of Baldwin High School in 1982, he returned to Maui in 2005 after a successful career in Silicon Valley.

Kohne is a tenured assistant professor who established the Academy for Creative Media at the University of Hawaii Maui College, where he currently serves as program coordinator.