Arun Sawad, a Thai greeting meaning "good morning," was my nickname during my years living and working in Thailand. I've also been known as "Talavou," which means "youthful" in Samoan – a name that reflects my enduring creative spirit.
Based in Aotearoa/New Zealand, I'm a proudly Samoan Kiwi with a rich ethno-cultural background that deeply influences my artistic expression. My professional journey spans education, arts, and media, with years of experience as a freelance creative in the media industry. After teaching in Thailand, I've recently returned to public school teaching in Aotearoa, reconnecting with my vocational roots.
My songwriting draws from a rich tapestry of music styles from country and rock traditions with a contemporary pop sensibility to reggae, soul and what I would term just good story. What began as a personal outlet for home self-expression has evolved into a meaningful creative pursuit that reflects my diverse life experiences across cultures and continents.
This background informs my unique perspective as a storyteller, blending the warmth of vi
ant spirit of Pacific Island culture, and the introspective depth of my experiences as an educator and artist navigating different worlds.
