Story
Covid-19 started it all
Support Da Locals (now Happyer) began during the COVID-19 pandemic in Honolulu, Hawaii, rooted in my background in photography, videography, and graphic design. It started as a way to help struggling small businesses — especially local food vendors — build an online presence when in-person traffic disappeared.
The phrase “Support Da Locals” carries deep cultural meaning, derived from Hawaiian Pidgin English, a language created in the 1800s on sugarcane plantations that united workers of many nationalities. It reflects the spirit of community, unity, and resilience — values that continue to guide my work today.
Specializes in Social Media and Content Creation.
Before launching Support Da Locals (now Happyer), I had already spent over a decade in photography, building a deep understanding of storytelling through visuals. I also founded Hiddenpalmtree, an automotive lifestyle brand that gained global traction on social media by blending car culture with artistic direction.
While serving as President of Hawaii Student Entrepreneurs at the Shidler College of Business, University of Hawaii, I advised student-led businesses from concept to launch — helping them build websites, design branding, and grow online audiences. These early experiences cemented my passion for helping others bring their ideas to life through creative direction and digital strategy.
Moving to NYC, Taking that First Step.
In 2021, I took a leap of faith and moved from Hawaii to New York City, eager to expand my network and refine my skills. I began working in corporate recruiting within Wall Street investment banking, which gave me a sharp understanding of branding, communication, and business operations.
But my creative drive never faded. In March 2023, I made the decision to leave corporate life and go all in — relaunching myself as a full-time content creator and creative entrepreneur.
Soon after, I started the @nycasher TikTok account to showcase my work and connect with NYC’s vibrant creative scene. My first free photoshoot event at Washington Square Park went viral, bringing together over 100 participants in one month. That moment sparked a movement — and cemented my mission to empower creators and brands through authentic storytelling.
Creating Impact at Thursday Boots co.
Today, I’m building the next phase of Support Da Locals 2.0 while working full-time at Thursday Boot Co. as a Content Creator and Photographer.
At Thursday, I’ve produced hundreds of photo and video campaigns, collaborating with runway models, influencers, and celebrities through brand partnerships and creative direction. I’ve also been hands-on in sourcing models, coordinating shoots, and driving paid social content that aligns with brand strategy and storytelling.
This experience has taught me the balance between artistic vision and brand performance — and inspired me to bring that same creative precision to every project I touch.
Today, I found happyer
In 2025, I founded Happyer — a creative brand built around one simple idea: to create smiles.
Just like my early days hosting free photoshoots in Washington Square Park, Happyer exists to remind people that creativity can connect us, uplift us, and make life a little brighter.
Through photography, storytelling, and community-driven experiences, Happyer continues the same spirit that started it all — turning moments into memories, and ideas into joy.