Staying the Course

              Director’s Desk:             

  Staying the Course, Strengthening the Mission 

As the year winds down and the world begins to slow, many organizations take this time to rest and reflect. At ChangeMakers, we are reflecting too, but our reflection fuels renewal. This season, instead of powering down, we are gearing up. We are preparing to meet the coming year with clarity, creativity, and conviction.

When I look back on the journey that has brought us to this moment, I am filled with gratitude. Every partnership formed, every class taught, every community member served has strengthened the foundation of who we are. The heartbeat of ChangeMakers has always been about people: those who show up with ideas, with courage, and with an unshakable belief that Hawaiʻi’s communities deserve more.

This past year has reminded us that true impact doesn’t come from speed or scale alone. It comes from consistency, from deep listening, and from honoring the call to service and aloha ʻāina that are deeply ingrained in our mission and vision. They remain the compass that guides every step we take. As we expand and elevate our work, that foundation keeps us grounded.

We are entering a season of real, tangible growth that reflects both trust and transformation. Our team has been hard at work refining systems, building programs, and strengthening partnerships that will carry us into 2026 and beyond. We are developing new tools to serve individuals, small businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders more effectively. The vision we hold for the future of ChangeMakers is one where our Priorities, Pillars, and Pathways converge to create a living ecosystem of empowerment.

But none of this would be possible without you. The encouragement, collaboration, and aloha from our community have made every success meaningful. Whether you joined a course, shared our message, contributed time or expertise, or simply believed in our mission, you have been part of our story.

For that, I want to say mahalo nui loa.

To build on this momentum, we are opening new ways for the community to join our mission. ChangeMakers now offers upgraded membership opportunities that allow individuals, organizations, and supporters to engage more deeply. Membership is an invitation to participate in shaping Hawaiʻi’s economic future. Through our membership tiers, you can learn, connect, and contribute to programs that strengthen local businesses, uplift families, and build community wealth.

If you have ever asked how you can be part of the movement, this is your chance. You can take a deep dive into our membership offerings atchangemakershawaii.org/members.

As we look to the horizon, our focus remains on expansion with intention. We are growing not just in size, but in depth, purpose, and impact. The coming year will bring new partnerships, new programs, and new opportunities for us to live out our shared commitment to economic equity and cultural integrity.

We know the work ahead will be demanding, but we also know it will be worth it. Together, we are building pathways. We are nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will carry this mission forward.

To everyone who has walked this journey with us, and to those who are just joining, thank you. Your belief in this work fuels our spirit. This season, we are not slowing down.

We are gathering strength. And we are stepping into the future with gratitude in our hearts and purpose in our stride.