A young man with a goal

By Cassie DLG Fejeran
Special to the Saipan Tribune

Many people would say life is what you make it. For 26-year-old Roderick Zandueta, life is about exploring all the options available to him through his talent, determination, and hard work.

Born and raised on Saipan, Zandueta found interest in the local music produced on the islands. Throughout his years in high school, he began playing the piano, ukulele, guitar, and drums. “I can’t read [musical] notes. I taught myself how to play the [instruments],” said Zandueta.

Shortly after graduating from Marianas High School, Zandueta became one of the five members that made up Island Remedy, a band that was formed in 1997. The group included Leif Pangelinan, Anthony Santos, Jesse Bermudes, Lester Vilacrusis, and Rowena Ogo, among others.

Unlike many, though, this enthusiastic singer didn’t just focus on one aspect of his personal growth, preferring to expand his career options through one of the big businesses on island, Duty Free Shoppers Galleria.

In his four years working for DFS, Roderick was a sales associate for Warner Brothers and Nike. Recognized for his dedication and commitment to his job, Zandueta was then promoted to sales team leader for Nike, Souvenirs, and is presently the sales team leader for the leather department.

Despite his busy schedule, Roderick still finds time for his other job as the local sales and marketing executive for Hard Rock Café.

“I manage the local and guest functions at Hard Rock. I was given the position because I know a lot of locals on island, and that’s what keeps the business going,” he said.

Keeping to what he calls a “dream job”, Roderick continues to add highlights to his already long list of responsibilities. Aside from singing, playing instruments, and managing, Zandueta recently took up recording albums in his own recording studio, Pit Balls.

Needless to say, his countless hours spent in the recording studio for other local artist did not hamper his ability to record his own album.

“I’ll be coming out with my new album by next year,” he said. The album will feature a wide range of music including reggae and Chamorro. With that in mind, Island Remedy is also planning a comeback album. This is still being discussed with the rest of the members,” he added.

When asked what drives him to juggle such a long list of responsibilities, Roderick said: “I wanted a taste of success. I made my goal. I made my dreams. Each one of them is coming true,” he said. “It’s determination. You have to have it; without determination you won’t get anywhere.”