Hi, I'm Leilani Vares, a film editor and director based in the United States with a passion for crafting compelling narrative through visuals and sound. I develop and manage digital content, oversee social media strategy, and produce photo and video materials to boost brand visibility and marketing outreach. I bring hands-on experience from independent filmmaking, festival recognition, and work with educational programs at USC and Northwestern. I enjoy collaborating across teams to tell stories that resonate with audiences and friends alike.

Leilani Vares

Hi, I'm Leilani Vares, a film editor and director based in the United States with a passion for crafting compelling narrative through visuals and sound. I develop and manage digital content, oversee social media strategy, and produce photo and video materials to boost brand visibility and marketing outreach. I bring hands-on experience from independent filmmaking, festival recognition, and work with educational programs at USC and Northwestern. I enjoy collaborating across teams to tell stories that resonate with audiences and friends alike.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Leilani Vares, a film editor and director based in the United States with a passion for crafting compelling narrative through visuals and sound. I develop and manage digital content, oversee social media strategy, and produce photo and video materials to boost brand visibility and marketing outreach.

I bring hands-on experience from independent filmmaking, festival recognition, and work with educational programs at USC and Northwestern. I enjoy collaborating across teams to tell stories that resonate with audiences and friends alike.

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Experience Level

Intermediate

Language

English
Fluent
German
Fluent
Icelandic
Beginner
French
Beginner

Work Experience

Film Editor at Vares Contracting
January 1, 2025 - Present
Developed and managed digital content highlighting construction projects, oversaw social media strategy, and produced photo and video materials to enhance brand visibility and professional marketing outreach.
Independent Filmmaker at OGG Airport Mural
January 1, 2023 - Present
Directed, shot, and edited a documentary film featured daily at OGG Maui Airport and showcased in the 2023 'Aha Mele' competition, reaching 5,000+ viewers in person and online.
Volunteer at Lahaina Wildfire Emergency Recovery
January 1, 2023 - Present
Assisted with relief efforts, including supply distribution, safety support, and aid for displaced families.
Staff at Maui Golf and Sports Park
January 1, 2021 - Present
Led activities, supervised groups, and ensured a safe environment.

Education

6-week film intensive program at Northwestern University
January 1, 2022 - April 21, 2026
Director, Cinematographer, Editor course at University of Southern California
January 1, 2023 - April 21, 2026
High School Diploma at Kamehameha Schools Maui
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2024

Qualifications

Best Film Director
January 1, 2022 - April 21, 2026
Best Film Editor
January 1, 2022 - April 21, 2026

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Professional Services