Amithea Love, Psy.D. is a Clinical Psychologist who is employed at Kaua‘i Medical Clinic, serving patients in Central, East, and North shore regions. She earned her B.S. in Psychology from the University of Hawai‘i-Hilo, and her M.S. and Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, New England. Dr. Love is the current President of the Hawai‘i Psychological Association (HPA), Co-Chair of HPA’s Rural Health Committee, and Co-Chair of the Kaua‘i Mental Health Consortium (KMHC), which is a group of most Kaua‘i mental health providers. Dr. Love is committed to serving and advocating for her community’s mental health needs. When she is not working or volunteering, she enjoys traveling, baking, and spending time with her pets (two turtles and a puppy).

Christina Uemura, PsyD, is a Clinical Psychologist currently working at Kaua‘i Medical Clinic. She previously worked as a Psychologist for the Department of Education at the Westside schools as well. Dr. Uemura graduated from Hawai‘i School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Honolulu, HI in 2018. She is the Co-Chair of the Kaua’i Mental Health Consortium, a group of Kaua’i mental health providers, and is also the Kaua‘i Representative on the board for the Hawai‘i Psychological Association. She has a passion for serving her Kaua‘i community and being a mom to her 2 children.

Marissa currently leads Hawai‘i Community Foundation's Community Centered Economy (C sector) grantmaking team. Prior to joining Hawai‘i Community Foundation, Marissa served as chief operating officer of Common Ground, an agriculture accelerator and innovation company located in Kilauea. Marissa previously served as Vice President of Grove Farm Company, one of the island’s largest private landowners, and as president of the Grove Farm Foundation. A graduate of Waimea High School, she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration from Hawaiʻi Pacific University. Marissa currently serves as a director for Shioi Construction and is on the Advisory Board for the American Red Cross – Kaua‘i Chapter and the Community Advisory Committee for PBS Hawai‘i. Marissa has served as Board Chair of the Agribusiness Development Corporation, Kauaʻi Planning & Action Alliance, and the Kauaʻi Economic Development Board and as a director for the Economic Development Alliance of Hawai‘i. In addition to being a graduate of Leadership Kaua‘i, she is also a Pacific Century Fellow and Omidyar Fellow.

After three years in San Francisco at Foothill College, McKenna Maduli moved to Los Angeles to pursue the Broadcast Entertainment program at UCLA Extension. The Roosevelt High School graduate excelled as an entertainment reporter for NBC’s Access Hollywood, MTV, VH1, and Billboard Magazine’s “Billboard Live.” McKenna moved back to Hawai‘i in 2016 and joined KHON2 (FOX) as the Weekend Weather Anchor and morning news reporter on WakeUp2Day. Next, she moved on to Hawai‘i News Now, and in addition to being the creator and host for Talk Story, she carries the role of Native Hawaiian Content Development. “Talk Story with McKenna Maduli” celebrates all things entertainment and shines a light on the many talented people from the islands in music, fashion, art, hula, and Hawaiian culture. In its first season, McKenna garnered two Emmy® nominations, winning her first regional Emmy® Award in 2020 for Interview and Discussion Segment. In 2021 & 2022, McKenna received six Emmy® nominations for her work as a producer and host, furthering her goal to elevate Hawai‘i television in the multiple roles she passionately carries

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Wesley (Wes) Lo is the Chief Executive Officer of both Ohana Pacific Health and Hale Makua Health Services, which were affiliated with Ohana Pacific Health in 2020.  Ohana Pacific Health (which includes Hale Makua Health Services) spans Maui, Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, and Hawai‘i Island, resulting in the creation of the state’s largest post-acute care organization. Locally owned and operated, Ohana Pacific Health employs over 1,500 individuals serving 950 post-acute care beds, three home health agencies, three adult day health operations, two adult residential care homes, and care management operations on Maui and Kauaʻi. Prior to joining Ohana Pacific Health, Wes was the CEO for Hale Makua Health Services, and previous to this, he served as the CEO of the Maui Region of Hawai‘i Health Systems Corporation, which had oversight over Maui Memorial Medical Center, Kula Hospital, and Lāna‘i Community Hospital. During his tenure with Maui Memorial, he was involved in the start-up of the first and only full-service Cardiac Program on the Neighbor Islands, which includes open-heart surgery and angioplasty. In the community, is on the Healthcare Association Board of Directors, serves as the current Chair of the Long-Term Care Committee for Healthcare Association of Hawai‘i, and serves on the State of Hawai‘i Board of Education, where he previously served from 2011-2013. Wes’ background also includes time as the County Finance Director and many years in banking.

Jacob Aki is the Senior Public Affairs Manager for Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, leading state and local government affairs across Hawaiʻi and the Pacific. With nearly a decade of experience in the Hawaiʻi State Senate, he is a trusted strategist in legislative affairs and political communications. A respected Native Hawaiian leader, Jacob serves on the Board of the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement and has held leadership roles in the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs and Hale O Nā Aliʻi O Hawaiʻi. He also advocates nationally for AANHPI communities through his service on the Asian American Action (AAA) Fund Board and the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies (APAICS). Jacob is a graduate of Kamehameha Schools, the University of Hawaʻi at Mānoa, and The George Washington University. In 2024, he was named one of Pacific Business News’ “40 Under 40.” He lives in Honolulu with his wife and two children.

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Fern Ānuenue Holland is a born-and-raised Kauaʻi resident with nearly two decades of experience in environmental science, conservation, and community advocacy. She holds a Bachelor of Science with triple majors in Wildlife Management, Environmental Science, and Marine Biology from Griffith University in Australia, and has worked professionally as an environmental scientist and consultant on ecological and contaminated land assessments across Hawaiʻi and internationally. In addition to her environmental background Fern is also a Kauaʻi County Councilmember. Fern has been a tireless advocate for land stewardship, native ecosystem restoration, food sovereignty, and regenerative agriculture. She organized rallies and community events, drove action around conservation and species protection, as well as pesticide impacts, and has spent nearly 20 years working on environmental justice issues tied to industrialized agriculture and biotech experimentation in Hawaiʻi and globally. She is heavily featured in the award-winning documentary Poisoning Paradise. Among her most defining experiences, Fern sailed to Antarctica in 2007 aboard the Sea Shepherd, spending 41 days at sea intervening against illegal whaling operations in the Southern Ocean, a mission that reflects the depth of conviction she brings to every cause she takes on.

Leticia, also known as Letty, is a mother of 5, grandmother to 3, and a wonderful wife to Noel Ruiz for 35 years. She was born in Cebu, Philippines, but later moved to the Garden Isle at the age of 12. She has 14 years of experience in the medical field and 9 years of experience in the banking industry.  Letty brings over 20 years of combined experience to support restorative and educational youth programs across the island. As in charge of Kaua‘i Teen Court, Letty hopes to bring further notice to Drug-Substance Abuse and Prevention—how to confidently abstain and avoid it as a youth through the Ka Pewa Youth Summit.

Tamara Lawrence serves as the Program Director of Ho‘okele Coalition, working to create a healthier, drug-free future for Kaua‘i’s youth through community collaboration, drug prevention, and education initiatives. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and mother, she is passionate about supporting families, empowering youth voice, and strengthening protective factors across the island.

Born 1982 on Kaua‘i,  graduated from Waimea High School in 2000. Attended KCC in the culinary program and graduated with my degree. Went on to work for Roy Yamaguchi's restaurant in Poipu, starting in pastry and eventually working my way up to the current Executive Chef of the Eating House 1849 by Roy Yamaguchi.

Aaron Hoff, born and raised on Kaua‘i, is the Founder of the Keala Foundation and a man in long-term recovery. After overcoming addiction in his own life, he now dedicates himself to serving youth and adults on Kaua‘i, helping them build strength, take ownership of their choices, and believe that a different future is possible.

Chris Osborn is the Program Director at the Keala Foundation, with over 10 years of experience in behavioral healthcare. He brings both professional expertise and personal experience in recovery from addiction and trauma to his work supporting youth and families.

Sarah Braunsdorf is the Executive Director of the Keala Foundation, bringing over 14 years of experience in the nonprofit sector and a deep commitment to building strong, healthy communities for youth. She is a driven and compassionate leader, dedicated to empowering her team and creating impactful programs that uplift and support the next generation.

Born and raised in Anahola, Dr. Kapua Medeiros is a Family Medicine Physician at Kaiser Lihue Clinic, with over 15 years of experience providing healthcare to patients of all ages. She focuses on preventive care, health maintenance, and treating a wide range of medical conditions. Dr. Medeiros is a graduate of Kamehameha Schools Kapalama Campus, where she was a four-year boarder. She went on to earn her undergraduate degree in biochemistry at Dartmouth College. She then graduated in 2010 from the University of Hawai‘i John A. Burns School of Medicine, where she continues to volunteer on the Imi Ho‘ola Advisory Committee as well as the Kaua‘i Rural Track Selection Committee.  Dr. Medeiros completed residency at the University of Hawai‘i Family Medicine Residency Program in 2013 and has returned home to Kaua‘i since then.  Dr Medeiros is also active in the Native Hawaiian Physician Association ‘Ahahui O Na Kauka, where she is currently a Board Member. Dr. Medeiros resides on Kaua‘i, practicing medicine full-time while raising four active keiki ages 8 to 16 with her husband, Joshua Martin.

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Jaedyn Pavao is the 2025 Miss Aloha Hula, a prestigious title that honors her lifelong dedication to the art of hula. She has been dancing since the age of three and is a proud dancer of Hālau Ka Lei Mokihana o Leinaʻala, under the direction of Kumu Hula Leinaʻala Pavao Jardin. Through years of study and practice, Jaedyn has cultivated a deep respect for the traditions, discipline, and cultural responsibility that hula carries. In addition to her accomplishments in the hula world, Jaedyn is a registered nurse serving as a public health nurse with the Department of Health. Her work in healthcare reflects the same values of service, compassion, and kuleana that guide her practice in hula. She is honored to join this panel to share her experiences as both a dancer and a health advocate, and to highlight the powerful role hula plays in preserving Hawaiian identity, fostering wellness, and building community.

Lovinna Cayabyab is a veteran police officer with over 19 years of law enforcement experience. She began her career with the Honolulu Police Department in 2007 and later joined the Kaua'i Police Department in 2024. Her background includes community relations, state and federal narcotics investigations, and undercover work focused on human trafficking cases. She currently serves as a uniformed officer in the Patrol Services Bureau in the Kawaihau District.

Eleanore Sato is a Microbiologist with the State of Hawai'i Department of Health, Kaua'i District Health Office. She is an alumna of Waimea High School and received her Bachelor of Science in Animal Ecology from Iowa State University. Ms. Sato has been with Hawai'i DOH for 14 years and is currently serving as the Kaua'i District Health Laboratory Administrator.

Arryl Kaneshiro was born and raised on Kauai, where he attended Koloa Elementary School and Kauai High School.  He is a graduate of Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon and is a Certified Public Accountant.  Arryl is married and the proud father of 3 daughters.  He is currently serving his fifth term as a Councilmember for the County of Kauai and serves as Chair of the Finance & Economic Development Committee.  In addition to his public service, he helps manage his family’s ranch with over 1,000 sheep.  He is heavily involved in the community and volunteers as President of Koloa Plantation Days, Vice President of the Kiwanis Club of Kauai, Treasurer for the East Kauai Soil and Water Conservation District, Treasurer for Aina Hookupu O Kilauea, and board member of KEO.

Tim Leichliter is the President and Director of Operations of Hoʻomalu Ke Kai, a Kauaʻi-based nonprofit focused on marine conservation, coral restoration, and community-driven environmental stewardship. He leads the Kauaʻi Coral Restoration Nursery, the island’s first coral nursery, working to restore nearshore reef ecosystems through science, cultural practice, and community engagement. His work also includes ocean plastic diversion and upcycling initiatives, as well as hands-on education programs that empower the next generation of ocean stewards. Tim is passionate about building local solutions for local challenges.

Troy Allen Hīnano Lazaro is a dedicated Kumu Hula and a passionate advocate for preserving and perpetuating the rich cultural heritage of Hawaiʻi. Born and raised on the island of Kauaʻi, Troy’s journey with Hula began in childhood and has since become an integral part of his life’s purpose. He is committed to ensuring that the artistry, values, and traditions of Hula are carried forward to inspire future generations.

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As the visionary leader of Hālau Ka Pā Hula O Hīnano, Troy has transformed his hālau into a thriving and respected institution. Under his guidance, the hālau has participated in numerous festivals, earning accolades that reflect their unwavering dedication to excellence in both performance and cultural integrity. With a nurturing approach, he ensures each student receives comprehensive training, emphasizing not only the artistry of Hula but also its profound cultural significance.

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Beyond the classroom, Troy’s leadership extends into the community. In 2018, he founded the HKPHOH Studio, a space that offers fitness classes, cultural workshops, and serves as a safe gathering place for community members. During challenging times such as the recent wildfires, the studio opened its doors as a refuge, embodying the spirit of aloha and mālama.

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Troy’s deep-rooted love for Hawaiian culture also finds expression in his role as a Board Member of the Hawai’i Tourism Authority, where he serves as a Hawaiian cultural specialist. His work focuses on protecting the Hawaiian language, promoting cultural practices, and fostering responsible tourism that respects the land and community. Throughout his career, Troy has shared his talent through performances and teachings that captivate audiences worldwide, sharing the beauty and stories of Hawaii’s spirit. Guided by the Hawaiian philosophy that “Hula is love,” he and his hālau dedicate themselves to living and teaching in accordance with rich Hawaiian values—honoring kupuna, elevating standards, and nurturing the youth.

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Troy’s unwavering dedication, leadership, and cultural stewardship make him an invaluable asset to Kauaʻi and the broader Hawaiian community. His life's mission is to ensure that the essence of Hawaiian culture remains vibrant and accessible—connecting past, present, and future through the art of Hula.

Ruby Pap is a Coastal Land Use Extension Specialist with the University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College Program, based in the County of Kauaʻi Planning Department. She lives in the Moku of Puna, Kalapakī ahupuaʻa, and is originally from New Hampshire. Since 2012, she has served as a liaison between the University research community,
government agencies, and the Kauaʻi community—helping ensure that scientific information, tools, and resources are accessible and applied to coastal zone management, community resilience, and education. Ruby holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science from the University of Denver and a Master of Science in Resource Policy and Behavior from the University of Michigan. Prior to joining UH Sea Grant, she spent nine years in coastal management in California, working with the California Coastal Commission and the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission.

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Zyra Mariquit is a 16-year-old junior at Kaua’i High School and is a dedicated student in the Hospitality and Tourism pathway. She thrives in creating memorable experiences and connecting with others. She balances her academics with a wide range of passions, from baking and painting to playing instruments and staying active through sports and fitness. Her leadership as a club officer has taught her to approach challenges with innovation-driven adaptability to ensure the best possible outcome. She approaches every challenge with a resilient mindset, firmly believing that failure is simply a lesson and rejection is a redirection toward growth. Participating in the Kupu Kelakela Youth Summit for her means weaving our individual journeys into a collective mo’olelo, creating enduring pieces of storytelling that serve as a guiding light for others to carry across future generations of Hawai’i.

Leonani Puailihau is the Senior Community Relations Manager for Turo, the world’s largest peer-to-peer car sharing marketplace. Leo, as her friends call her, was born and raised on the west side of O’ahu and leads with a passion for connecting people and ideas. Leonani works at the intersection of business, culture, and community impact. Deeply rooted in ʻike (experience & knowledge) and commitment to uplifting the community, she is dedicated to helping the next generation step into spaces where they can thrive, lead, and redefine what it means to be “built different”.

I’m from Kauaʻi, and I’ve always known what I wanted, even when I was young. Growing up on a small island, you learn quickly how to make things work with what you have and to stay grounded in who you are. Right after graduating, I didn’t hesitate; I went straight into the beauty industry at 18 and just kept going, learning, growing, and figuring things out along the way. What started as something small and personal slowly turned into something bigger than I imagined. Today, I own my own studio on Maui, where 23 artists from all different walks of life come together to create and showcase their work. It’s a space that reflects where I come from, rooted in community, creativity, and hard work. It’s never just been about me, it’s about creating opportunities, uplifting others, and showing that even coming from a small island, you can build something meaningful if you stay consistent and true to your path.

Aloha, my name is Darrell Seto, and I am a Training Coordinator with the Hawaiʻi Carpenters Apprenticeship & Training Fund. I’ve been a proud member of the Carpenters Union for over 20 years, gaining hands-on experience across a wide range of construction projects statewide. Throughout my career, I’ve worked on major projects including Disney Aulani and the Four Seasons Resort on Lānaʻi. Today, I’m passionate about supporting and mentoring the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

Raised in Hanapēpē, Kauaʻi, Kaira Kaʻaihue is a pre-licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a proud alumna of Kauaʻi High School, class of 2018. She earned her Undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Business Administration from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa in 2022. She went on to earn her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology with a focus in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chaminade University of Honolulu in 2025. During her graduate training, Kaira completed her internship as a substance abuse counselor with Hina Mauka Teen Care, where she supported adolescents and their families navigating substance use, trauma, family conflict, and mental health challenges. Her work in school-based settings provided valuable insight into the realities youth face today and strengthened her commitment to creating safe, supportive spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered. She currently practices at Lōkahi Counseling Center, where she continues to support individuals and families in their healing and growth.

Allison Fraley is the Solid Waste Division Chief for the County of Kaua‘i. She has more than three decades of experience in solid waste management, having started with the County as its first Recycling Coordinator in 2000. She holds a Master’s Degree in Psychology from California State University, Los Angeles, where she focused on recycling behavior and public participation. Allison has led the development and implementation of numerous waste diversion programs and now oversees the Division’s operations, planning, and regulatory compliance efforts to ensure sustainable and reliable solid waste services for the island.

Classically graduated in 2001, Cody Pueo Pata is the Kumu Hula of Hālau Hula ‘o Ka Malama Mahilani, based in Makawao, Maui. As a founding member of the Leo Kāhoa Steering Committee of Huamakahikina - an international coalition of Kumu Hula that advocates for the integrity, stewardship, and protection of Hula - Kumu Pueo has been instrumental in inspiring public recognition of hula and the role it plays in our community. He is also a member of the Kumu Hula Steering Committee for the Hālau of ‘Ōiwi Art, the former Cultural Advisor to Mayor Victorino, Vice President of ʻIhikapalaumāewa Foundation, Vice President of Wave of Harmony Foundation, and a senate-appointed member of the Native Hawaiian Intellectual Property Rights Advisory Committee. Additionally, Kumu Pueo is an award-winning recording artist, 2021 recipient of the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement’s “Empowering ʻŌiwi Leadership Award,” the cultural advisor and sponsored artist of Kanile‘a ‘Ukuele,  the author of “ʻOhuʻohu nā Mauna o ʻEʻeka, Place Names of Maui Komohana,” as well as an accomplished artisan.

Raised on the island of Kauaʻi, Kana Pikini is a 3rd Generation Musician and graduate of Kaua’i High School. Known to most as Kanamon, Kana is a multifaceted businessman, musical artist, and creative visionary. A hustler by nature and a devoted husband and loving father of 5, he now calls Maui home, where he blends his natural talent and ear for music, entrepreneurship, and creativity into everything he builds and leads. A skilled sound engineer and true maestro, Kana consistently brings positive vibes, maximum energy, and humility into every space he enters. As a founding member of the band Revival, Kana continued to perform on many stages in his career. You can now catch him in action with the Hammah House Band from the island of Maui.

Lasaya is a 15-year-old Sophomore from Kapa’a High School. Lasaya is the worker bee, indulged in school activities such as being in the Kapa’a DECA Chapter as VP of Leadership, Student Council as Class Representative for the Class of 2028, and Air Riflery as an athlete for 2 consecutive seasons. Outside of academics, you’ll find Lasaya onstage as a musician and dancer, or working at her 2 part-time jobs. Kupu Kelakela being one of her newest extracurriculars and passions, she hopes to apply everything she learns about leadership, growth, and problem-solving to her future education(s) after high school and to work to preserve the educational values and cultural customs for the next generation of keiki in Hawai’i. Lasaya will be taking on the role of Secretary and Social Media Manager for the Kupu Kelakela Kaua'i Youth Summit.

Rianne is a 16-year-old Junior in the Health academy from Waimea High School. She is a lifelong learning scholar, known for her dedication, kindness, and leadership skills. She is committed to fulfilling her lifelong aspiration to become a pediatrician. Through her commitment, she consistently completes all her work and contributes in all her classes. Rianne’s friends know her as Mae, but in her community, she is known as the vice-president of the Junior class of 2027, an officer of Educators Rising, and a member of a variety of extracurricular activities, such as her school’s National Honor Society. When Rianne is not working hard to succeed in her goals, you can find her strengthening her relationships with her friends, family, and community.