voices of change
Andrea Dias-Machado began with gratitude. She named something many emerging nonprofit leaders know well: her organization is young. “We are a baby in all of this non-profit, this non-profit world,” she shared, humbled to be part of the journey.
Dr. Casie Wise stepped into the Hōʻike with humility, gratitude, and a powerful story of Native education advocacy. Her presentation focuses on building support for a long-range vision for NIEA’s Tribal Communities and Schools program.
Hoku Kaʻaekuahiwi Pousima’s presentation felt like an invitation to place.
Representing Hui Mālama i ke Ala ʻŪlili, affectionately known as HuiMAU, Hoku grounded the audience in the ahupuaʻa of Koholālele, in the moku of Hāmākua on Hawaiʻi Island.
Representing Hale Kipa, Jennifer brought warmth, clarity, and deep kuleana to her case for support.
Representing Ke Kula ʻo Nāwahīokalaniʻōpuʻu, Gale brought forward a case for support that was deeply rooted in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, culture, and the future of the lāhui.
“It took me a long time to start this business due to my previous careers,” says Bryson Hiro, founder of Hiro’s Cookies. But in February 2022, with flour-dusted hands and a heart full of purpose, he stepped boldly into a new chapter — and never looked back.
“The only way I’ll fail is if I quit.”
That’s the quiet fire that fuels Zachere Camara Andrade, founder of Blazin’ Snow, a mobile shave ice business bringing nostalgia, ʻono treats, and joy to Hawaiʻi Island—one party at a time.
But this journey didn’t start with colorful syrups and long lines.
As the founder and Executive Director of Ulu Aʻe Learning Center, Miki has spent over a decade weaving people back into the story of the land.
But like all great journeys, hers began with a sense of place — and a call to serve.