Category: Cover Story

Hope for the Future

Glen Higa of Kalihi has much in common with Michael J. Fox. Like the “Back to the Future” star, he faces his challenges with gratitude and optimism, focusing on finding meaning in the face of adversity. Like Michael, he emphasizes that challenges don’t define a person—their actions do. He believes in the power of acceptance…
A Life by Design: Momi Cazimero

To Elevate Hawai‘i While working as a graphic designer, Momi’s mission was to “elevate the images and icons of Hawai‘i and Hawaiians,” a feat she achieved through her years of dedication. “It began when I became conscious of the fact that the only thing that had a Hawaiian face on it was the Hawai‘i Visitors…
The Power of Kākou

Grounded by what he learned in his neighborhood church, Brickwood Galuteria embodies a life of public service dedicated to nurturing the well-being of Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians), kūpuna and those with special needs. When “Kūpuna Power”—his TV program created to educate and empower Hawai‘i’s elderly—was relaunched in 2020, Brickwood said in a Ka Wai Ola…
Ikebana – A Conversation With Nature

By Rosa BarkerPhotos courtesy of Barbara & Roger Tinius Ikebana is instantly recognizable as a Japanese style of floral art, no matter where in the world it is created. One thing that sets it apart as a style is that the arrangement is simple and uncluttered. But that simplicity is full of deeper meaning, dating…
Hula is Life

Hawaiians say ‘haweo’ to refer to a glow of light that makes things visible. It is in the light of knowledge that the darkness and confusion of the past are now being destroyed and the heroic deeds of our ancestors are being revealed. The responsibility is now ours to carry on where they left off.…
Building a Community of Hope

Catholic Charities Hawai‘i (CCH) may not be new — in fact, the nonprofit has been serving people of all faiths and cultures in Hawai‘i since 1947. But there are many aspects of the organization and services available that go well beyond what one might associate with its name. From transportation to veterans’ services, housing and…
Making Memories

Road Scholar, originally founded as Elderhostel in the 1970s, offers educational travel programs for adults aged 50 and older, with a growing focus on multigenerational trips for grandparents and grandchildren. These programs foster bonding through shared learning experiences. Jane Austgen and her granddaughter Maya participated in the “Spy Kids” program, exploring Washington, D.C., and deepening…
Banking, Family-Style

The words “family” and “business” are not mutually exclusive to Hawaii National Bank’s owners and operators. HNB is at once a “business family” and a “family business.” For the last 64 years, the Luke family has supported small businesses, family businesses and each other with their intrinsic knowledge and practical experience. They know what it…
Melveen Leed – From My Heart to Yours

Every Sunday from 11am until 1pm HST, viewers from across the islands, the nation and the world join Melveen Leed’s Facebook livestream. Leaving their daily cares behind, they are uplifted by the singer’s distinctive voice and her words of wisdom, spiced up with humor and “Moloka‘i Tita” sass. By casting her throw net worldwide, Melveen…
Driven by Legacy, Crafted with Aloha

Did Manuel Nobriga know when he began crafting ice cream from scratch at Maui Soda & Ice Works in Wailuku in 1932 that he would be leaving an enduring legacy that would be perpetuated and celebrated for many generations? Well, as it turns out, Manuel’s ideas, formulas and methods have become the blueprint for a…
The Royal Hawaiian Band

“To promote and foster music, preserve the Hawaiian musical culture, inspire young musicians and enrich the lives of the people of Hawai‘i” is their mission. As the only full-time municipal band in the United States — and the only one with a royal legacy — the Royal Hawaiian Band has touched and continues to move…
Esther Chan: Cybercrime Fighter

She may not wear a mask or a cape, but in the eyes of Hawai‘i’s kūpuna, Esther Chan is their very own superhero as she continues her battle against online crime in cyberspace — one workshop at a time — wielding only her mighty curriculum and stalwart spirit. If criminals stole money from your dear…