How do you support local businesses?
I am deeply committed to assisting local families in achieving the dream of homeownership. By prioritizing and promoting the services and products of local businesses, especially through social media and community markets, I contribute to the mutual growth and support within the community. ‘This method opens doors for families to build their futures right here in Hawai‘i.

In my daily operations, my dedication to local businesses is a fundamental aspect. The backbone of Hawai‘i’s economy is its local enterprises. That’s why I make it a point to incorporate local vendors’ offerings into our real estate transactions, ensuring they are the first point of contact for our clients’ needs. My efforts are not solely about collaboration; they are about actively supporting business growth through referrals and enhancing their visibility to others. I also try to spotlight their unique contributions to our island to help nurture a sense of community, creating a network where businesses can prosper.

Engaging with local businesses allows me to assist in fostering a sustainable ecosystem where every family has the opportunity to plant roots and flourish in Hawai‘i. This synergy between homeownership, local entrepreneurship, and community empowerment is the key to a thriving community.

What makes Hawai‘i a great place to live and work?
My father is originally from Hawai‘i, and our family would visit annually. When I relocated to Hawai‘i in 2002, I had the opportunity to fully immerse myself in the islands’ extraordinary blend of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and strong community ties. The aloha spirit is a way of life that encourages a supportive and cooperative community, igniting creativity and innovation amidst the islands’ diverse ecosystems and magnificent landscapes.

Hawai‘i’s focus on family and community creates an environment that is unparalleled in its capacity to foster growth and prosperity. It is a place that truly embodies the possibility of collective advancement. In this unique setting, we are driven by a shared ambition for growth, guided by the principles of kinship, community, and shared success.

The opportunities in Hawai‘i to develop partnerships, make meaningful contributions, and prosper are endless. To me, Hawai‘i is a unique place where we can all flourish collectively—a paradise that nurtures us as a unified community. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and experiences our beautiful island community has afforded me. I am dedicated to giving back to this extraordinary place that continually inspires and enriches us all.

What is a cause or purpose you deeply believe in?
My professional philosophy is anchored in the advancement of affordable housing, the empowerment of women and girls, and the advocacy for education. I firmly believe that access to safe and affordable housing is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of a stable and prosperous society. Ensuring that everyone has a secure and affordable home should be regarded as an essential right, not a luxury.

The empowerment of women and girls is a necessary step towards creating communities that are equitable and thriving. This empowerment serves as a catalyst for societal upliftment, fostering a future characterized by unity and abundant opportunities.

Education is the cornerstone of personal and societal advancement. I am deeply committed to ensuring that everyone has access to quality education. Education serves as the guiding compass for our youth, leading them to a future filled with endless possibilities. Providing access to quality education empowers our children to dream, innovate, and forge their own paths.

I believe these three areas prepare our future generations to lead with innovation and vision. They drive my actions and decisions, steering us towards a future that is more equitable, enlightened, and empowered. It is a future I am proud to help build, and a contribution that I am dedicated to leaving for future generations.

Are there any community programs or initiatives that you find particularly valuable?
With my passion for affordable housing, women and girls empowerment and enhancing educational programs, I proudly support organizations such as Hawaii Home Ownership, Habitat for Humanity, Junior Achievement, and the YWCA, which provide vital services and support that significantly impact many lives. These initiatives are the foundational supports that will ensure the continued success of our community.

Programs like Hawaii Home Ownership and Habitat for Humanity play a pivotal role in narrowing the homeownership gap, transforming the aspiration of a secure and stable home into reality for numerous families. Their missions align with my commitment to affordable housing and a wish that every family in Hawai‘i has a home to call their own.

Organizations such as Junior Achievement and the YWCA are advocates leading the charge in empowering our youth and women. They offer more than mere services; they provide a beacon of hope, cultivating an atmosphere where dreams are fostered, and ambitions are upheld. These initiatives are the powers that strengthen the societal fabric, making a discernible difference by touching lives and elevating spirits through education and numerous programs to provide support to communities in need. I support these initiatives because they encapsulate my mission: to construct a community where every individual has the chance to thrive and flourish.

What is one piece of advice that has stuck with you throughout your life or career?
I believe that no individual’s ascent to success is a solitary endeavor. We all experience struggles and setbacks and rely on the support and wisdom of those who have traversed similar paths. It is with a sense of profound gratitude that I acknowledge the mentors, friends and family who have shaped my journey. Thus, it becomes a personal duty to extend that same support to others, fostering their growth through time, mentorship, and education.

The mentorship and camaraderie I have received in my life and different career paths have been pivotal. The objective is not merely to ascend personally but to construct the steps that enable others to rise alongside us. Committing to the upliftment of others is not just an act of generosity; it is an obligation that contributes to a culture of empowerment. Each of us plays a role in the collective elevation of our community. I strive to make every interaction an opportunity to encourage and empower, helping others to achieve their aspirations and ambitions. This philosophy has been a guiding light for me, and it is my hope that it will continue to inspire and guide many more in the years to come.