Today we’d like to introduce you to Patrick John Sablan.
Hi Patrick John, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Aloha – Hafa Adai,
My name is Patrick Sablan, and I’ve had the privilege of entertaining the City of Houston for over 4 years now. I first made my way out here to the “mainland” United States from the beautiful island of Guam. I had a passion and desire that my ancestors had in their blood as well; the need to explore this beautiful planet.
I first join the U.S.Air Force and later made a transfer to the U.S.Army where I became a fire fighter and first responder. This journey allowed the young go-getter in me to see parts of the U.S. and experience other cultures. As this part of my journey came to an end, I came across a very important person, Chief Tama. This man became the foundation for me learning the culinary arts as well as put into motion my desire for the stage. Chief Tama allowed be to practice and become a part of his popular show here in Houston,TX. Once I felt the stage – I was hooked. I knew that this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
I eventually made my way back into the workforce and pursued educating myself in the areas of “tribal arts”. I am an artist, and always wanted to learn my roots through the ever popular tribal arts. Once I found similarities in art, language, and indigenous traditions – I wanted to know more about the past of the Pacific. This combined with the art of Samoan Fire Knife dancing launched my ability to go on stage and tell and tale of the pacific long forgotten. A voyage that changed the pacific islands forever.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road was not always smooth. Like my grandfather said; “Life is like the tides”. You have to embrace the ups and downs, and take advantage of the low tide when it is presented. You see, being a fisherman, the low tide is when we gather food for the village, low tide is when we explore the parts of the island that is engulfed with the majesty of the ocean. This simple life lesson allowed me to embrace the hardships of life and always put in my mind; “This too shall pass”.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am an entertainer and educator. I take pride in my endless reading and knowledge seeking. This has lead me down a road of understanding the pacific islands like no other on the stage. The voyage that my ancestors took 10,000+ years ago shaped the pacific islands into what we know today. It is often denied and shamed on to think that this voyage took place; but rather than – if we embrace this voyage; we see that we are one people, one tribe, one family.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Mentors and teachers have always been around me. I’ve learned throughout the years that they are always present; I just need to silence my pride and allow myself to be humbled by wisdom beyond my current understanding. Divine timing, and God sent individuals are a part of all of us. It is up to us to be silent and wise enough to listen, recognize and accept the teachings.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wwww.ThisTribalFest.com
- Instagram: @ThisTribalFest
- Facebook: @ThisTribalFest
- Youtube: @ThisTribalFest
