Tulsi Gabbard - Team Rubicon Kauai
Project Overview
iEcho Arts was commissioned to document the emergency disaster response efforts led by Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and Team Rubicon in the aftermath of the catastrophic flooding that devastated Kauai’s North Shore, particularly the communities of Hanalei and Ha‘ena. This historic storm dumped over 50 inches of rain in 24 hours, cutting off entire regions from power, communication, and road access, leaving hundreds stranded and homes destroyed.
With Team Rubicon—a 35-member veteran-led disaster response team—on the ground conducting relief efforts, iEcho Arts was tasked with capturing the resilience, challenges, and recovery efforts through photojournalism, video highlights, and resident interviews. This mission required extensive planning, remote filming logistics, and adaptive strategies to overcome extreme environmental conditions.
Execution and Planning
This was no ordinary media production. Filming in an active disaster zone required specialized gear, transportation solutions, and on-the-fly problem-solving. Key elements of execution included:
Navigating Remote and Isolated Terrain: With roads washed out and power grids down, reaching the hardest-hit areas required deploying zodiac boats across the open ocean to ferry equipment and crew into cut-off locations.
On-the-Ground Documentation: Capturing high-quality photojournalism and video footage in muddy, unstable conditions while ensuring safety and efficiency.
Resident Interviews & Storytelling: Conducting raw and emotional interviews with residents who had lost everything, highlighting their strength and the critical work of Team Rubicon.
Disaster Response Coverage: Documenting the muck-out operations, debris removal, and humanitarian assistance provided by veteran first responders.
Our team operated in challenging environments with zero infrastructure, ensuring the mission was captured in a way that honored both the survivors and the heroes aiding them.
Impact
The coverage produced by iEcho Arts brought national attention to the disaster relief efforts, showcasing the critical role of veteran-led response teams in community recovery. Our media was used to:
Highlight the incredible work of Team Rubicon and their rapid-response capabilities.
Generate awareness and funding for Kauai’s rebuilding efforts.
Support relief coordination efforts by providing clear, compelling storytelling to media outlets and stakeholders.
Preserve historical documentation of the event for future reference and disaster preparedness initiatives.
Event Highlights
Over 50 inches of rain within 24 hours, causing landslides, road collapses, and mass displacement.
35 veteran first responders deployed for immediate flood relief efforts.
On-the-ground coverage of crisis response, including home restorations, emergency debris removal, and community aid.
Exclusive interviews with residents and first responders on the disaster’s impact and recovery efforts.
Legacy
This project showcased iEcho Arts’ ability to operate in extreme and high-risk conditions while delivering powerful, high-impact storytelling that resonates. Our work helped elevate awareness, secure funding for continued relief efforts, and document a significant moment in Kauai’s history.
The flood relief efforts, captured and shared through our media, stand as a testament to the resilience of the people of Kauai, the heroism of Team Rubicon, and the power of media to drive change and recovery.
iEcho Arts remains committed to telling the stories that matter, no matter the challenge or terrain.
