#MediaMonday – Manoah Tuiasosopo
Today’s #MediaMonday comes to us from Manoah Tuiasosopo, a reporter at KYMA in Yuma.
Okay, Manoah, time to share…
What kind of pitches, if any, do you prefer? What topics are of most interest to you?
I love stories that make a difference. For example, fundraisers for students and/or teachers, food drives for shelters, and new advancements at the hospitals. I often do stories with the local schools and colleges, animal shelters, and the Onvida Health Regional Medical Center.
One big staple in my weekly schedule is Military Matters Monday. In these stories, we highlight local Veterans, active-duty, or any military programs. I have done many stories with the Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Yuma Proving Ground, and local Veteran homes.
How did you get your start in the media? What’s your story?
My father is a long-time actor and has been my entire life so I have always been around cameras. I love to entertain, inform, and connect with people which is why I got started in reporting local news. My favorite part of the job is meeting new people every day. That might be the mayor one day, a small-business owner the next day, then locals walking down the street another day.
I started at KYMA in February 2024 with a blank state and no news experience whatsoever. I started as a videographer (cameraman) and have worked my way up to reporting. I’ll reach one year on the job next month February 2025.
Where did you grow up?
Born and raised in San Pedro, California, a small beach and port town in Los Angeles next to Long Beach. Very beautiful, I must say.
Favorite TV shows or movies?
The only shows I watch are about food or a documentary. I love Diners, Drive-in, and Dives with Guy Fieri or new Netflix documentary series. I like to think I can cook as well as the chefs in the shows but hard to call.
Favorite color?
Green
What is something readers would be surprised to know about you?
I am a former Division 1 football player. I come from a big family of football players, many of whom have played in the NFL and college. Nowadays, football is my past, but I still stay active by exercising and playing the occasional pick-up basketball game at a local park.
Contact Email: manoah.tuiasosopo@kecytv.com
