Meet our AWC Fellow: Benjamin Pola

Learn about our 2025 AWC Fellow, Benjamin Pola!

About Me
Benjamin Pola is a proud first-generation Samoan American writer from Long Beach, CA. He is passionate about uplifting and amplifying Pasifika voices through his storytelling which centers on coming-of-age narratives that explore culture, belonging and self-discovery. As an educator and member of the Pasifika Entertainment Advancement Komiti (PEAK), he connects and collaborates with Pasifika artists across academia and the entertainment industry. Currently, Benjamin serves as the Social Media Manager and Editor at the USC School of Cinematic Arts. His very first original pilot, KINSHIP, was celebrated as a quarterfinalist in the 2022 Final Draft Big Break Contest, marking an exciting start to his creative writing journey.

What inspired you to pursue film/media arts?
The power of storytelling. For the longest time, I wanted to be a lawyer, but it wasn’t until I got accepted into law school that I stopped to think about where that dream came from. And I realized it was shaped by all the TV shows I grew up watching. But in all those stories, I never saw anyone who looked like me. I never saw Pasifika characters or our stories on screen. That really stuck with me, and it made me want to be part of changing that.

What are you most excited about for this year’s AWC?
I’m really looking forward to our screening! There are some incredibly talented and inspiring filmmakers in our cohort, all telling such unique stories. I can’t wait to see what we all create.

What do you like to do during your free time?
Playing or watching tennis! I discovered tennis after college and have been obsessed ever since.

Favorite Film:
The Lion King

Favorite TV Show:
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Music Artist on Repeat:
Fiji. Fiji was a part of every islander’s upbringing, and his music always brings back such great memories. May he rest in peace.

Unpopular opinion:
Tomatoes do not belong on hamburgers!

Restaurant recommendation:
Poly Grill and Bakery in Carson, CA. You can grab a delicious, satisfying plate of islander food with all the best Polynesian baked goods. and yes, they’ve got the best islander snacks too!

Where to find you: @benjaminpola