Lost in translation

With her short documentary "Lost in translation”, Chelsea Cuthers-Munro embarks on an emotional pilgrimage to reconnect with her lost language and cultural heritage in her motherland Rarotonga.

History doesn't belong to us; we belong to it.

“Lost in translation" is a compelling documentary exploring the migrational endeavours of a Cook Island Mama ru’au ‘Moeroa Cuthers’ who, in the 1950’s left the comforts of her motherland Rarotonga for the dream of a brighter future in Aotearoa New Zealand. Moeroa’s granddaughter Chelsea Cuthers-Munro leaves no stone unturned as she divulges the trials and tribulations of Moeroa's decision to assimilate into the western world, a decision that will ultimately impact future generations.

Chelsea’s journey sees her unearthing deeply personal kōrero in the hopes of reclaiming her cultural identity for the next generation.

Help tell 'Moeroa Cuthers’' story.

Kia Orana, Ko Chelsea Cuthers-Munro tōku ingoa, I am a 28 y/o NZ born Cook Islander passionate about storytelling through multiple creative disciplines. For what feels like the longest time, I’ve had a strong desire to facilitate a space to document the history and stories of my nana 'Moeroa Cuthers’. 

Whilst she is still alive to tell the stories of her migration, I want to document her perspective through film. Telling my nana’s story is important, because it gives her current and future descendants the opportunity to connect with their identity and cultural heritage, while using the past as stepping stones for the future.

To make it happen, we’re asking for your support.

Due to lack of finances and resources, I have never been able to initiate this project. But with the help of Boosted X Moana, friends and ānau that believe in the value and importance of this project, I am ready to make it happen.

The funds raised through this campaign will be the key vehicle to get this vision off the ground. This would cover costs of travel to Rarotonga where Moeroa currently resides, to pay the film crew, video editing, animation, sound engineering and kōha to thank those who partake in the documentary. 

It would mean the world to me if you were in a position to donate to help me make this project happen.

My goal is to honour the past and create conversations for you and your ānau around history and what came before by the way of ancestors. I can promise that your support & generous donations will be gift wrapped in a heart warming, compelling documentary available for all to enjoy soon. 

I would appreciate if you could share this campaign with your networks.

Meitaki ma'ata, Kia Manuia

Chelsea x