Did this: Project Focus opening reception

Project Focus Hawaii, a photography internship for children, worked with 14 children from Down Syndrome Ohana of Hawaii this summer to teach them photography skills, goal setting and building self esteem. Their summer project culminated with an unveiling of their photography work at Davies Pacific Center Saturday night.

The exhibit will be on display at the Davies Pacific Center throughout August, then will move to Kahala Mall from Sept. 9 through 19, and Kapiolani Medical Center Sept. 19-26.

This year’s exhibit is themed “Shine: Inspiring Joy Through Their Eyes,” and showcases black-and-white photography by the Project Focus participants and the project founders, Lisa Uesugi and Laurie Breeden Callies.

Did this: Project Focus opening reception

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About 600 people filled the Davies Pacific Center courtyard and adjacent meeting room to show their support at Project Focus’ opening reception. In addition to meeting the kids who participated in this year’s program, there was live entertainment and food from renowned Oahu chefs.

The evening was capped off with a performance by Cecilio and Kapono, which was enjoyed by the crowd, but especially by the Project Focus participants. Here’s a video of “Good Time Together,” which brought everyone to their feet.