Celebrating Wāhine Awards 2025

Maile Meyer  |  Kimberly Agas  |  Dani Aiu  |  Laura Beeman  |  Maenette Benham  |  Jennifer Bowers  |  Katie Buck  |  Kaleialoha Cadinha-Pua‘a  |  Tracy Camuso  |  Sara Connery  |  Francoise Culley-Trotman  |  Amanda Douglas  |  Stephanie England  |  Elaine Fujiwara  |  Erin Isa Donle  |  Robin Kalohelani  |  Tiffany Kim  |  Kayla Keehu-Alexander  |  Ambur Kiriu  |  Jana Lam  |  Ixchel López-Durant  |  Laura Lucas  |  Sherry Menor  |  Desiree Mosiman  |  JT Ojerio  |  Lisa Ontai  |  Teri Orton  |  Alana Pakkala  |  Dr. Stefanie Park  |  Katie Pickman  |  Emily Porter  |  Amanda Pump  |  Monica Salter  |  Sydney Shibuya  |  Steffy Simms  |  Susan Soken  |  Cora Spearman  |  Claire Tong  |  Kumu Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu

Caring, Fun and Inclusive

Kimberly Agas

General manager, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

I love that my job doesn’t always feel like a job. While I have a demanding schedule with many responsibilities and sometimes difficult decisions, I get to come to a place where, ultimately, we are helping families make lifelong memories. I work alongside friends who have become ‘ohana, and together, we have created an environment where there is a sense of community and purpose.

Three adjectives that describe me: Caring. I’m a friend, daughter, sister, wife, mother and now grandmother. I’m blessed to be surrounded by aloha and maintain a compassionate nature both at work and at home to mālama those around me, so they can conversely care for those around them. Fun. I think it’s important that we intentionally have fun and add a little joy to our daily lives. Whether it’s a quick laugh with a friend, a party to celebrate someone’s birthday, or a game to keep our minds active and healthy, I’m always looking for a reason to add some fun to the day. Inclusive. I grew up in Hawai‘i accustomed to our mix-plate of cultures. As a woman leader, I feel it’s important that we continue to empower voices, especially those who celebrate Hawai‘i and our unique cultures and differences, and help everyone feel welcome, valued and heard.

It’s About Being Present

Dani Aiu

Executive vice president of consumer banking, American Savings Bank

I started my career at ASB nearly 28 years ago as a teller while I was in college. Early on, I learned that the way to build relationships with customers and earn their trust is to be a good listener. This allowed me to form deep connections and provide the best possible financial advice for their situations. Over the years, I’ve worked in nearly every branch role, which gave me the experience I needed to lead our amazing consumer banking team. Today, I’m still in touch with many of those customers from my early days, and I find myself relying on a lot of the same qualities I developed as a teller.

I find the greatest joy and fulfillment in simple things—making lasting connections with people, being surrounded by my loved ones and giving back to the community. Whether it’s talking story with a customer about their hopes and dreams or mentoring a teammate looking to advance their career, working at ASB has given me opportunities to develop many cherished relationships. At the end of the day, it’s not about material things, plaques on the wall or pats on the back—it’s about being present, making people feel seen, heard, respected and valued, and doing my small part to make Hawai‘i a better place.

Compassionate and Passionate

Laura Beeman

Head coach, UH Rainbow Wāhine basketball 

I have always lived by the motto, “It’s not where you start, it’s where you finish.” I am sure many people have used this motto, but it has been the story of not just my career, but my life and growth. The other principle I try to live by is to try and be the best person I can be.

My grandma once told me I was a good person. It touched my heart and has stayed with me. I think I am compassionate and extremely passionate. I am an honest person. Making a positive impact in other people’s lives is extremely important to me.

Striving for the Summit

Maenette Benham

Chancellor, UH West O‘ahu

The most important thing I do as chancellor is set the vision and the sail plan that fosters and strengthens a gracious space of learning—where everyone can dream, wonder, connect and strengthen their special gifts. Then I work shoulder to shoulder with faculty, staff and community partners, all committed to building vibrant pathways for student success. Promoting excellence in teaching, scholarship and stewardship are key because it motivates us all to kūlia i ka nu‘u, strive for the summit. I am inspired every day to do this work because of the many faculty and staff who are relentless, daily creating spaces of joyful learning, teaching and living, thereby preparing our next generation of community leaders.

It’s not easy to assess reasons for my success, so I talked story with my team. It was filled with laughter and joy. So, here goes. I grew up listening to my kūpuna telling stories of our place and people, and I observed the grace and aloha in the way they lived their lives. My fisherman grandpa’s stories taught me to rise to the kāhea of my kuleana and embrace its challenges, because through the skill and commitment of my steady hands, the aloha in my heart, and the intelligence of my mind, I could always make strong nets. My grandparents’ mo‘olelo taught me the value of being a lifelong learner, to listen, be patient, to seek clarity, and to lead with intentionality, grace and compassion.

Building a Better Company

Jennifer Bowers

President and founder, Pang Communications

What I truly love most about my work is the culture we’ve built—one that respects and supports the balance between professional ambition and personal life. When I founded Pang Communications 19 years ago, it was in direct response to a conversation I had at a former job. I was told I’d have to choose between advancing in my career and being present for my family, that I wouldn’t be able to attend every May Day performance or school field trip if I wanted to move up. That idea felt not only wrong, it felt unacceptable. So I created a firm where talented professionals could do excellent, high-impact work while also having the flexibility to live full, connected lives.

My greatest mentor professionally is Ann Botticelli, whom I had the privilege of working under when I moved to Hawai‘i in 2002. Her brilliance in strategy and execution made a lasting impression on me. Personally, my mother has always been a source of inspiration. After spending years as a stay-at-home mom, she made the bold decision to return to school to study nursing. With two young kids at home, she enrolled at the University of Cincinnati and graduated as valedictorian when I was in eighth grade. I still remember watching her walk across that stage in her red cap and gown—it left a deep mark on me. Her perseverance taught me that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, and that hard work, when fueled by passion, truly pays off.

Grow Into Your Role

Katie Buck

Chief executive officer, E.A. Buck Financial Services

My advice to those pursuing a similar career is don’t wait for permission to lead. In financial services—and really in any industry—you’ll face moments where your voice may be underestimated. Use those moments to clarify your vision, not to shrink from it. Learn the business inside and out, understand how decisions are made, and then be bold enough to question them when needed. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, not just those who cheer for you. And finally, give yourself the grace to grow into your role—you don’t have to be perfect to be powerful.

A mentor once told me, “Your job isn’t to have all the answers—it’s to create an environment where others can find them with you.” That changed everything for me. Leadership isn’t about control; it’s about trust. The most sustainable success comes from lifting others, empowering them to lead, and building a culture where people feel seen, safe and significant. That advice helped me evolve from being a strong contributor to becoming a strong leader.

Living Life Unafraid to Fail

Kaleialoha Cadinha-Pua‘a

Vice chairman, chief executive officer, president and chief investment officer, Cadinha & Co.

Our industry offers many opportunities for young women to pursue, but also many challenges. My best advice is to take the necessary time to discover what part of the finance industry naturally piques your interest and know whether you enjoy interfacing with clients or prefer focusing on research and analytics. I refer to these as internal versus external roles. Both are important. Both require different skill sets. But landing on the right role is necessary for success.

My greatest role model is my father. Growing up, he provided clear expectations for us, and we knew that family always came first. He taught us by demonstrating how to lead an honorable life filled with hard work, creativity, courage and a disciplined approach to maintaining a work-life balance. The most important lesson he taught me was to live life unafraid to fail.

Lean Into Challenges

Tracy Camuso

Principal, G70

My advice to a young woman pursuing a similar career is to stay grounded in your values—leadership takes many forms. As your career grows, you’ll face complex decisions and competing priorities. Lean into those challenges. Build strong relationships, speak with confidence, and never hesitate to take up space. Your perspective is valuable, and your presence at the table matters.

My personal motto is to be driven to succeed and grounded in family, and to define success on my own terms.

A Jack-of-All-Trades

Sara Connery

Chief executive officer, Handcrafted Restaurants

There are a lot of things I’d like to accomplish during the next year, like opening our next restaurant, The Beach House at the Mana Kai Maui resort on Keawakapu Beach. The restaurant has been in the works since 2019, and we’re excited to finally open. Overall, though, the biggest goal I’m aiming to achieve is reclaiming our title as No. 1 Best Large Employer in Hawai‘i for Hawai‘i Business. We’ve won the award about five times, and it means a lot to our company and our management team who work hard to take great care of our people.

I’m really lucky to do a job that I love with people I love and respect. That makes all the difference. My role demands that I be a bit of a jack-of-all-trades—focused, tenacious, creative, flexible, patient, quick and people-centric. Facing challenges and problem-solving keep me on my toes and keep my brain engaged. I’m also fiercely dedicated to creating conditions where our people can flourish. I love to learn new things about business, society, the world and other people, and what drives them and myself. I’m lucky that the restaurant business provides such ample opportunity to learn, grow, improve, lift others and foster human connection.

Creative, Authentic and Adaptable

Francoise Culley-Trotman

Chief executive officer, AlohaCare

Every day, my team and I witness the profound impact of our mission on the people we serve. We get to be a small part of helping our Island families thrive and that energizes me. My role also allows me to connect with like-minded collaborators who share the responsibility of building trust and caring for community.

Three adjectives to describe me: Creative. I challenge others to think outside the box and find innovative solutions to problems. I love fostering an environment filled with endless possibilities. Authentic. I deeply value being my true, genuine self. Authenticity, honesty and transparency are key to building meaningful relationships built on trust and mutual respect, both personally and professionally. Adaptable. I embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. I have learned over the past few years and crises that resilience and determination can be used as constructive tools to navigate difficulties.

Don’t Be Afraid to Stray From the Expected Path

Amanda Douglas

Director of marketing, Four Seasons Resort O‘ahu at Ko Olina

My personal motto is to lead with purpose, stay curious, follow my passions with heart, and never be afraid to carve my own path.

I had a strong desire to transition into a director of marketing role. However, having been in the director of catering position for several years, I found that many didn’t view that as a natural or traditional next step. To other women navigating their own career journeys, I would say this: Don’t be afraid to challenge the expected path. If there’s a role you’re passionate about or believe you’re well-suited for, ask the important questions. Why not you? Why not now? Sometimes the biggest limitation is an outdated idea of how careers are “supposed” to unfold. Advocating for yourself and breaking past conventional career tracks is not only possible, it’s necessary for growth—both personally and for the industry as a whole.

Contributing to Kapolei’s Identity

Stephanie England

Vice president of retail management and general manager, Ka Makana Ali‘i

Retail, restaurant, office and mixed-use management constantly challenge me with their ever-evolving nature. They demand flexibility and problem-solving skills that keep me engaged daily. Being part of Kapolei’s growing community is particularly gratifying. Steering the ship at a center that supports small business startups and local entrepreneurs presents meaningful challenges. I take pride in watching entrepreneurs succeed and seeing our center function as both an economic engine and community gathering space. Contributing to this evolving area’s identity while creating places where people connect and local culture thrives gives me purpose.

My career was shaped by exceptional mentors in the shopping center industry. Rick McDonald, John Mendelsohn, Ron Yoda, Kirk Horiuchi and Chuck Shaller each shared unique skills and wisdom that proved invaluable to my development. From my dear friend and mentor, Katherine Sodek Langner, I gained appreciation for empathy, authentic networking, and relationship building. Her approach showed me that genuine influence comes from sincere interest in others’ success, not transactional exchanges. Outside of work, my husband, Mike England, has shown me the importance of maintaining balance and pursuing personal growth beyond my career. My two sons, Michael and Gabriel, continuously teach me patience and inspire me to be a better version of myself every day.

Creating a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles

Elaine Fujiwara

Chief customer officer, Hawai‘i Dental Service

When you have worked for Hawai‘i Dental Service as long as I have, we all wear multiple hats, and I enjoy collaborating with others, which leads to team success. In various situations, one must know how and when to pivot. Actively listening to others’ ideas and suggestions, and coming up with solutions together allows everyone to take ownership of the project. Most importantly, surround yourself with teammates smarter than you.

I have been fortunate to cross paths with so many talented women at various points in my career. I have learned all these women are passionate, driven and focused to succeed while balancing family and work life. I admire these women and the women I work with at HDS. The women (and men) of HDS are hardworking, and we all have the same goal in mind—to champion oral health and create a lifetime of healthy smiles for Hawai‘i families.

Leading With Passion

Erin Isa Donle

Vice president and general manager, Neiman Marcus Honolulu

I love that I get to come to work every day in a beautiful, inspiring environment, from the thoughtfully curated product assortment to the butterflies suspended above the escalator well, and even the sweeping ocean views just beyond our windows. But the greatest joy lies in the people I work with—the warm smiles, and the genuine connections shared between our team and our clients. I’m proud to work for a company that was co-founded by a woman and continues to empower and advance women in leadership roles. I also love that I can combine my passion for fashion with supporting people and the community that supports us.

My advice to those pursuing a career in this industry is to lead with passion and let it be the constant that carries you through every challenge and triumph. Trusting your instincts as intuition is a powerful asset, especially in a space as dynamic and fast-paced as retail. Always stay open to new opportunities, even the ones that stretch you beyond your comfort zone—they’re often where the greatest growth happens. Embrace a growth mindset and learn from every experience. Leadership is not defined by a title—it’s reflected in how you show up for others, how you bring purpose to your work and how you inspire those around you through resilience and intention.

Actively Promoting Wellness

Robin Kalohelani

Chief operating officer and senior vice president, The Queen’s Medical Center West O‘ahu & Wahiawā 

My personal motto is to lead with purpose, uplift the community, and honor the legacy of those who came before me.

During the next year, my primary goal is to advance the expansion of QMC West O‘ahu while championing culturally responsive care initiatives that elevate health outcomes for the diverse communities we serve. This includes continuing to lead the strategic development of our hospital campus to ensure we meet the growing health care needs of West O‘ahu. By partnering with community organizations and expanding access to key services, I hope to foster an environment that not only treats illness but actively promotes wellness in the communities we serve—from longtime residents to new families who now call West O‘ahu home.

Giving Pups a Life of Love

Tiffany Kim

Executive director, Fur-Angel Foundation 

The best part about my job is that I get to be involved in so many rescue stories. I have the honor of helping dogs that may not have the best histories, but through our program, they get a second chance at a new life full of love. I have met so many amazing families that have helped create this awesome community of dog lovers who are now part of the FAF ‘ohana.

My personal motto is to do all things with aloha and integrity, and you’ll never go wrong.

Disrupt With Humor

Kayla Keehu-Alexander

Vice president of community impact, Aloha United Way

This year, my focus is on stability, for the working families doing everything right but still struggling to get by, and for the nonprofits holding up entire communities with shrinking resources and growing demands. As federal funding becomes unreliable and the cost of living skyrockets, the sector is being stretched to its limits. This is an opportunity to reimagine how nonprofits are supported so that we are truly centering community. I see this moment not just as a crisis, but as a call to reorganize power, deepen solidarity and build the kind of infrastructure our communities actually need to weather what’s coming and whatever comes after that.

My personal motto is to lead with heart, disrupt with humor and always pack extra snacks.

Making People Feel Seen

Ambur Kiriu

Co-owner and vice president of communications, REMAX Hawai‘i

One of the most important lessons a mentor taught me is to treat the people around you with care, kindness and grace—and to always let them know how much they matter. Whether it’s a client, a colleague or a team member, making people feel seen and valued is the foundation of lasting relationships and a strong, supportive culture.

My advice to a young woman pursuing a similar career is to invest yourself in the well-being of your clients, treat them as you would treat your family, and the business portion will take care of itself. Each person you help is not a transaction but a meaningful chapter in the story of your career. Build trust and connection with each client, and your career will write itself, one relationship at a time.

Quirky, Determined and Foolhardy

Jana Lam

Owner and designer, Jana Lam LLC

The key to staying in business for as long as I have? Sheer will and determination. Just kidding! I think it’s been a little bit of luck, and having been able to collaborate with a lot of people and businesses to get my brand name out there. But mostly, it’s having an amazing team that’s so creative and able to wear so many hats.

Three adjectives that describe me: Quirky … but in a good way, as in my ideas are sometimes out there, and I always seem to be obsessed with things that maybe “normal” people aren’t? I’m also determined. If I really want to do something, I’ll figure out a way to make it happen. Perhaps foolhardy might go along with that.

Take Up Space

Ixchel López-Durant

Theater arts instructor, La Pietra – Hawai‘i School for Girls

I hope my students remember me for making them laugh through challenges, helping them to see themselves the way I see them, and how I met them where they were. Above all, I hope they remember that I so fiercely believed in them! My hope is that my students take the life skills through stage skills they’ve learned in class, whether they go into theater or not, and always remember that their voices, ideas and world viewpoints matter. You’re never too much. Take up space. Direct that show. Produce that film. Speak up in the writers room. Share who you are and what’s important to you.

There are so many days when I hear my girls working away, laughing at their jokes, analyzing characters together, and I catch a glimpse outside my classroom of the sparkling ocean, and I think, “What a gift this is.” Teaching theater and other arts classes (writing, filmmaking) allows me to witness someone’s journey, from locking themselves away in their shell to stepping out and taking risks in front of others.

Having Focus, Empathy and a Sense of Humor

Laura Lucas

Managing partner, Carlsmith Ball LLP

The most important thing a mentor taught me is to manage expectations.

The personal qualities that have led to success in my career are having focus, empathy and a sense of humor.

Building a High-Performance Team

Sherry Menor

President and chief executive officer, Chamber of Commerce Hawai‘i

What I love most about my job is the opportunity to work alongside a high-impact team that truly believes in our mission and radiates positive energy every day. Being surrounded by passionate, driven individuals inspires me to bring my best self to work and makes even the most challenging days rewarding. I also deeply enjoy building and strengthening relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, from community leaders to policymakers. Collaborating with these partners allows us to create meaningful, lasting change and build a brighter future together.

In the coming year, my primary goal is to see the 2030 Blueprint for Hawai‘i in full throttle—making tangible progress and truly moving the needle on our key initiatives. I am committed to ensuring our programs and services continue to evolve and improve, especially by leveraging technology and artificial intelligence to maximize our impact and reach. Embracing innovation will help us deliver even greater value to the communities we serve. At the same time, I want to continue building a strong, high-performance team equipped to meet the challenges ahead.

Naturally a Doer

Desiree Mosiman

General manager, International Market Place

The most important thing my many mentors have taught me is how to lead through empowerment. Instead of simply giving my team answers or prescribing every step, I’ve learned the value of guiding them to arrive at solutions on their own—even when I may already have an outcome in mind. This approach encourages ownership, builds critical thinking, and fosters a collaborative environment where everyone feels their contributions matter. I’ve learned to trust the team to take the lead, allowing them to develop their own expertise and confidence. This not only strengthens their skills but also deepens their engagement and commitment.

I wouldn’t be where I am today without my genuine passion for my work—it’s the driving force behind everything I do. That passion is paired with a strong work ethic, a constant desire to learn and an unwillingness to settle for complacency. I’m always looking for ways to improve processes, make a difference for my team, and create meaningful impact for our customers and tenants. I’m naturally a doer—someone who doesn’t just identify opportunities for efficiency but takes action to make them happen. I’m also not afraid to roll up my sleeves and get my hands dirty alongside the team, which helps keep everyone motivated, inspired and aligned toward a common goal.

Be True to Yourself

JT Ojerio

Artist and owner, Aloha de Mele and Studio Hale

My advice to a woman pursuing a similar career is to start where you are—don’t wait for everything to be perfect before you begin. Even small steps, taken consistently, will move you forward, and each project, idea or experience adds up. While you grow and work, stay vigilant—there’s so much to learn if you really pay attention to your surroundings, whether it’s from mentors, peers or even moments of challenge. And most importantly, be true to yourself. Don’t feel like you have to change your voice, style or perspective to fit into the mainstream art world. Your authenticity is your greatest asset. Trust that there is room for your unique point of view.

Over the next year, my main goal is to grow and collaborate with brands that are meaningful to me and align with my values. Alongside this, a personal priority for me is to continue improving my ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i.

Carrying Forward My Mom’s Values

Lisa Ontai

Interim President & CEO, Vice president of marketing and mission advancement, YMCA of Honolulu

My greatest mentor was my mom, Betty Lee Ontai Chang, a teacher, real estate broker and the heart of our family. Rooted in her strong Catholic faith, she taught me to lead with love, put people before profit, and when it comes to service, give it your all. It was my mom who told me I should become a nurse, recognizing the joy I found in helping others. That began my career as a labor and delivery nurse, then later, supporting families facing infertility. A career shift led me to co-own a public relations firm with my sister, Laurie LaGrange, where we took on clients who shared our values, including the YMCA of Honolulu. In 2012, I joined the Y full-time. Today, I carry forward what my mom taught me: helping others reach their goals, find their joy, find their purpose and know that they matter.

Three adjectives that describe me: Compassionate. Whether in a delivery room or nonprofit, I’ve always centered my work around caring for others and meeting people where they are. Grounded. I remain rooted in humility, service and faith. Purpose-driven. I bring 1,000% to everything I do.

One Team, One Canoe

Teri Orton

General manager, Hawai‘i Convention Center

Three adjectives that describe me: Generous, kind, humble. I consider myself both a steward and a facilitator at the Hawai‘i Convention Center. My team and I operate with a shared sense of purpose—like paddling together in the same canoe—to host our guests with deep respect for Hawai‘i’s culture, history and environment. It’s our spirit of aloha that truly sets us apart. One team, one canoe.

My advice to a young woman pursuing a similar career is to remain grounded in your values and never feel pressured to compromise your integrity to achieve success. Be open to new opportunities that challenge you to grow, and seek out a network of strong, supportive women who can serve as mentors, sounding boards and allies. We rise higher when we collaborate and learn from one another.

Learn From Every Angle

Alana Pakkala

Chief executive officer and partner, Kobayashi Group LLC

My advice to those pursuing a similar career is to learn from every angle. I started my career as a project coordinator, and those early years—working long hours, asking questions, getting involved in every part of the process—were foundational. Real estate development is project-based, which means every project brings new people, challenges and lessons. Also, take the initiative to get involved in different phases, whether it’s permitting, planning or time on site. Each project is a chance to build relationships and strengthen your ability to problem-solve. Look for roles that give you broad exposure, and surround yourself with people who are generous with their knowledge. Those experiences will shape how you contribute and help you grow into the kind of leader you want to be.

My mom, Susan, has always been my greatest role model. In the 1960s, she left her tight-knit East Coast family (including eight siblings) to move to Hawai‘i, marry my dad and build the future and family she bravely imagined. She spent nearly three decades as a public school teacher, eventually specializing in students with learning differences. When her classroom lacked resources, she saved up to buy her own copier and for years, we had a photocopier in our living room so she could make materials for her students. While my dad worked long hours in construction, she kept everything going—raising three kids, showing up for her students, and doing it all with honesty, grit and quiet determination.

Embracing New Opportunities

Dr. Stefanie Park

Vice president and chief medical officer, HMSA

My professional advice to someone pursuing a similar career is that your career may unfold differently than you anticipated. Embrace new opportunities. I entered the John A. Burns School of Medicine wanting to be a pediatric surgeon and graduated wanting to be an internal medicine primary care doctor. I completed internal medicine residency and worked as a hospitalist at Kuakini Medical Center. Five years later, I became a mom and made a big pivot into working part time doing administrative medicine at HMSA. Five years after that, I moved into a management track at HMSA. I completed an executive health care MBA in 2022, and now serve as the chief medical officer at HMSA. Every step in the journey led me to where I am today.

I appreciate work-life balance, which allowed me to experience the joy of being a very present parent for my daughter’s early childhood milestones, as well as the professional and personal fulfillment from my chief medical officer role. I get to utilize my medical training and learn new things on the cutting edge of medicine as well as in the rapidly evolving health care business. I also have the honor of leading Mālama Ola, the employee well-being program at HMSA. My purpose at HMSA is to create a health care experience that is worthy of my family, friends and neighbors. This is meaningful to me since I was born, raised and educated in Hawai‘i.

The Joy of Being Part of a Team

Katie Pickman

General manager, Hawai‘i News Now

The personal qualities that have led to success in my career are leading with empathy and having a deep sense of responsibility to my team. I also believe in listening intently, communicating clearly and following through with integrity. I’m naturally curious and thrive on trying new approaches to big challenges. I also value relationships, innovation and collaboration. I take pride in helping others shine.

With my job, I love that every day is different and filled with opportunities to make an impact, whether it’s telling meaningful stories, mentoring a rising leader or bringing a creative idea to life. I work with incredibly talented people, and being part of a team that informs, connects and uplifts our community is both a privilege and a joy.

Be Grateful

Emily Porter

Chief operating officer, MacNaughton

I feel immense gratitude for a life rich with purpose and am focused on deepening that purpose in areas that matter most to me. These areas are inspired by my family’s multigenerational roots in Hawai‘i. Family: Continuing to support each of my loved ones, immediate and extended family, on their unique journeys with presence and care. Work: Championing exceptional teams in real estate development and investment across Hawai‘i and the continental U.S., and at our three hotels in Waikīkī proudly operated by MacNaughton Hospitality. Community: Dedicating strategic thought and joyful work on boards such as Kualoa Ranch, Punahou School, Housing Hawai‘i’s Future and the Hawai‘i Visitor and Convention Bureau, and personally leading a Hawai‘i-based initiative to promote healthy relationships in K-12 curriculum.

My personal motto: We may only live once, so let’s do our best and always endeavor to create positive impacts in other people’s lives. Also, be grateful. The secret to having it all is knowing you already do. To me, this has nothing to do with material possessions, rather it speaks to the most important things in life—family, friends, health and the remarkable gift of Hawai‘i being our family’s home.

Strengthening Families

Amanda Pump

President and chief executive officer, Child & Family Service 

What I love most about my job is knowing our work truly makes a difference in the lives of children and families. Every decision we make is rooted in our mission to strengthen family connections and support the well-being of kids. I have the privilege of leading a team of 400 amazing people who show up every day with a shared commitment to building a better future for the next generation. When I think about what success looks like, I see families who have broken free from domestic violence and are now living safely in their communities; young people who’ve faced adversity and still walked across that graduation stage, ready to take on the world; new parents who now have stable homes, meaningful jobs and access to the essential resources they need to thrive. The individuals and families we serve are powerful reminders of what’s possible.

My first role model was my mother. Her tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment to our family shaped the foundation of who I am. From her, I learned what it truly means to lead with love, integrity and resilience. Throughout my life and career, I’ve been fortunate to learn from many extraordinary mentors who have helped guide and challenge me in meaningful ways. Two guiding principles have especially stayed with me: Work in a place where it’s safe to fail, and everything you sacrificed to get here deserves to be held closer to your heart than the things easily replaced.

Work That Has Impact and Reach

Monica Salter

Vice president, global communications and social responsibility, Outrigger Hospitality Group

My greatest role model is my mom. She showed me that passion and purpose can coexist beautifully. As a renowned photographer, she had this uncanny gift for capturing people as they truly were—raw, unguarded, real. Whether she was photographing presidents or poets, her lens always revealed something deeper. What inspired me most wasn’t just her talent—it was her work ethic, fearlessness and her ability to stay grounded in a world that often celebrated the surface.

I love that my work has both impact and reach. I get to help shape a brand that brings people’s vacation dreams to life, while also driving efforts that protect the places they come to enjoy. I work with incredibly talented colleagues around the world, lead conservation initiatives that make a real difference, and travel to stunning destinations such as Singapore, Australia, Thailand and Fiji. Travel fuels my curiosity and perspective, and in today’s world, connecting people and cultures feels more important than ever. Living and working in Hawai‘i, I’m reminded every day why protecting our environment and culture matters; it’s not just professional, it’s personal.

Big Change Starts Small

Sydney Shibuya

Associate program manager, risk factor control, American Heart Association

I love that my work allows me to build meaningful relationships in the community while creating programs that make lasting differences. I’m proud to be part of a mission-driven organization, working every day to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

My personal motto: Big change starts small, and I believe the ripples we create today can lead to a powerful impact tomorrow.

Letting Kindness Lead

Steffy Simms

Owner and founder, Guava Jammies, and robotics outreach STEM coordinator, ‘Iolani School

In the next year, I want to build infrastructure to sustainably scale both my STEM programs and my alohawear business, so they can serve as vehicles for empowerment and generational impact. In my STEM work, that means expanding access to place-based innovation for students, and creating leadership opportunities for young women of color in innovation and engineering. With Guava Jammies, I am investing in young women interested in design and entrepreneurship. Hawai‘i needs more locally owned companies that share our stories with authenticity, reclaim space in the global marketplace, and reinvest back into our Islands to strengthen our local economy.

My personal motto: Let kindness lead us; let community ground us; and let care for ‘ohana, ‘āina and wai be the legacy we build.

Never Too Late to Try Something New

Susan Soken

Vice president of advertising, First Hawaiian Bank

In the ever-changing world of digital marketing, it’s very important to be flexible and open to change. No one likes challenges or changes, but you need to adapt your perspective to see them as opportunities to learn and grow. Also, it’s critical to think outside the box and look for ways to improve current processes. During COVID, I could no longer do gym workouts. I had to find another activity, so I decided to try canoe paddling even though I’m not an ocean person. After four years of paddling, I’m finally no longer super worried about waves, sharks and the canoe flipping over. I’m enjoying it a lot more and hope to compete in the Nā Wāhine O Ke Kai Moloka‘i race someday. You are never too old or too smart to try something new that could make you into a better person.

Integrity and honesty are essential in a trustworthy employee and the foundation for all work and personal relationships. You want to be an employee who can be trusted with your words and actions, and a person who everyone knows will do what they say. Caring is a core value at First Hawaiian Bank, where we care for our employees, customers and community. I truly care for those I work with and want to see them succeed. Resilience helps you to bounce back from setbacks or challenges. It can be difficult to be productive in tough times, but it is the ability to persevere and keep going to make it through those times together as a team that will make everyone stronger and successful.

My Primary Goal is Joy

Cora Spearman

Chief executive officer and founder, Coradorables Sustainable Corp.

My advice to young entrepreneurs stepping into the fashion industry is to stay true to your vision and values. Focus on building a brand that resonates with authenticity and purpose. Also know that sometimes rejection is just redirection and divine protection. It’s also important to adapt quickly and learn from experiences, the environment and cultures other than your own, and to understand the importance of true sustainability and ethical practices, as consumers are increasingly drawn to brands that prioritize environmental responsibility and build community.

In the coming year, my primary goal is joy. I plan to be joyful and appreciate all the abundance and blessings from the seeds planted years before. I also aim to strengthen our collaborations with both Fortune 100 companies and local artisans, especially with women-led businesses in Hawai‘i, while enhancing our sustainability initiatives.

Still Passionate After 28 Years

Claire Tong

Vice president, marketing and communications, Hawai‘i Pacific Health

I joined Hawai‘i Pacific Health over 28 years ago and continue to be passionate and excited each day. In my marketing and communications role, I’m fortunate to share how HPH creates healthier communities through inspiring lifesaving stories. Our HPH leadership, health care providers, clinicians and staff collaborate and innovate to enhance the care for our patients and community. Our latest 24,000-square-foot Straub Benioff Medical Center-Mililani Clinic and Urgent Care opened in August 2025. The Straub Benioff Medical Center redevelopment will create a health care campus of the future that reflects our vision to transform health care by providing the space, tools and resources necessary for our care providers to impact all aspects of patient health.

My greatest role model is Martha Smith, who set a standard of excellence through her more than 30 years in health care at Hawai‘i Pacific Health. Martha worked hard and tirelessly and expected the same from those around her. At the same time, she was extremely thoughtful and caring, always wanting the best for our patients. During the many years I worked with Martha, she and I had one thing in common that bonded us. We both experienced a journey with cancer. We agreed that you must work through cancer and fight it by continuing to exercise and eat a balanced diet, even if it’s difficult. It’s been four years since Martha passed, and she still inspires me. During challenging times, I often think, “What would Martha do?”

Living My Truth

Kumu Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu

Hawaiian community leader

I dedicate myself to uplifting my fellow Kānaka of Hawai‘i and do all I can to reinstate our rightful place and be respected and honored in our homeland, our motherland, our mainland of Hawai‘i.

The most important thing a mentor has taught me: Live my truth, be happy, be free. Be strong, be of courage and be a warrior. Accept both that which one can change and that which one cannot. Life is short so make the most of the time one is afforded and take nothing for granted.