HONOLULU -- Paula Akana has been a fixture on Hawaii television news for nearly two decades. She has gone on the road to report on everything from crime to natural disasters to moments of joy.

She started her career in 1983 as an intern and then reporter with KITV, going full-time after graduating from the University of Hawaii in 1984. She is a 1980 alumnus of Kamehameha Schools.

Getting Into The Business
What was your first story you really remember doing?

"There was illegal building being done at a housing project that faced opposition on the Windward side. I remember, I had to find out that there were no building permits. At one point during the shoot, I heard a loud sound behind me and thought the workers were going to bulldoze me."

What's the best part of your job?

"I love meeting people. I meet interesting people all the time, good and bad."

What story do you feel made the biggest impact on you?

"Diane Suzuki. It was the first time I had to cover a story about someone I knew, or knew of. I had also taken ballet from the same dance studio years earlier. It was the first time I had a personal feeling. Having to interview her parents and family was the hardest thing to do."

"One of my most favorite people to cover was the late Elison Onizuka. He had just completed his first mission on the space shuttle. We followed him through a parade and parties. He was very down to earth."

She said it was difficult to find a path for herself as a youngster.

(Paula pictured left with Van Halen)

"I can't remember too many local role models. There was no one to look up to."

Now, Paula is the role model. She keeps a professional appearance on air and in public. She is constantly visiting schools and participates in charitable organizations. She attends many school career days and gives speeches to classes. She focuses on the advantage of knowing the local climate of Hawaii.

Being one of the few Native Hawaiian television broadcasters there comes added pressure for Paula. There have been times she said where it is hard to keep a balance between performing her duties as a reporter and representing what some Hawaiians want.

(Paula pictured right as a Pau rider)

"Sometimes I feel as though I go overboard to show that I am not partial to either side. I feel caught in the middle."

One part of her job and the community that she loves to be a part of is the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival. Paula has been one of the hosts of the premiere hula competition for years.

"I'm really proud to be associated with such an outstanding event. It's a tremendous experience. The Merrie Monarch Hula Festival is a wonderful event. It keeps getting better. I've made good friends through the event."

Journalist, Wife, Mother... Really Busy
Paula is one of the busiest people I know. She always has something to do before work and on the weekends.

A typical day has her getting her son ready for school at 6 a.m. Then after taking Patrick to school she's off to a 9 a.m. meeting, sometimes followed by a noon meeting. She tries to spend time with her parents during the day.

She heads home to try and make dinner before she has to get changed for work. Then she picks up her son to take him to whatever activity he needs to be at so she can make it to work on time.

Once at work, there are stories to call on, scripts to read and information to look up. Then she can head home after the late news. She usually heads out shortly after 11 p.m.

She said working the night shift for television news can be tough on families. She says she treasures time with her family. She is married to KITV 4 News chief photographer Bob Guanzon. They have a son, Patrick (pictured, left). Currently, away from home for college is Paula's stepson Anthony.

Community Activities:
Paula participates in community events and organizations to give back to the people. One group is Malama Hawaii, an organization working to make Hawaii a better place for residents and visitors.

She sits on the University of Hawaii Alumni Board. It gives Paula an opportunity to give back to the school that she feels has offered her so much.

She also sits on the YMCA Metropolitan Board. It's an exciting endeavor for her and a great learning experience.

She also can be found at dozens of school each year participating in career days and other activities.

Paula is a great example of a person in the public eye who goes above the call to participate in life. She holds family and the people of this state as high priorities in her life. No small task, but she handles it well.