PBN’s 2022 40 Under 40 honorees
Pacific Business News
Mondenna, Mondy, Jamshidi-Kent, 38
Executive director, travel2change
Jamshidi-Kent’s regenerative tourism organization has collaborated with such initiatives as Movers and Shakas and the Malama Hawaii campaign to attract workers to the Islands and introduce visitors to volunteer activities.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken and how did it turn out?
Preparing to serve a world in peril has come at a price. As an advocate for social and environmental change, becoming a sustainability expert, peace practitioner and social entrepreneur, I’ve risked homelessness, abuse and lost earnings and while investing in a better future. With prior service as an AmeriCorps VISTA and thereafter living the innovation lifestyle, I’ve put myself on the line so I can fully understand what it’s like to build pathways out of poverty and, ultimately, how to rebuild one’s own life. Maybe if I could do it, someone else who’s also been displaced can, too.
Who was an important mentor for you and what did you learn from this person?
Like many, I was blessed to mentor with my late friend, Pono Shim, starting in 2012. When we help people regain their stories, as seen through their highest perspective, story-as-medicine transcends everything. From Nobel laureates, teachers and family, I’ve been lucky to have many influences.
What’s your top personal and professional goal for the year ahead?
Personal: Write a book! My grandmother, English teacher and community-builder, first motivated me, but I’ve since been re-inspired by fellow 40U40 class of 2018, Kainoa Daines’ new book, “Island Wisdom”, and plan to dig in this next year. Professional: Rebalance while growing our team across the [islands]. Through our platform at travel2change.org, we connect kamaaina and [visitors] at the center of fun and impact through experiential immersions that leave Hawaii better. Harnessing creativity, these collaborations for cultural and aina restoration help us collectively remember our kuleana to malama [the Earth] as a global community in a fun and fulfilling way. As our organization grows, we foresee creating a more inclusive, regenerative economy, building [relationships] and economic infrastructure with on-ramps to prosperity for residents of all islands. In short, I hope to create more jobs and have more fun at work!
Shae Kamakaala, 35
Director of aina protection, Hawaii Land Trust
Kamakaala has facilitated several of the most extensive permanent land preservation efforts in HILT’s 11-year history. Since 2018, she has served on the board of directors of Hui Malama i Ke Ala Ulili, a Hawaii Island nonprofit committed to better steward the lands of Hamakua.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken and how did it turn out?
The biggest risk I’ve taken is taking on Hawaii Land Trust’s largest conservation transaction on my first day of work in 2020, the beginning of the Covid pandemic in Hawaii. This has been one of the most meaningful efforts that I have had the honor and privilege to work on.
Who was an important mentor for you and what did you learn from this person?
Aunty Puanani Burgess continues to be a pillar and mentor for me. She taught me the importance of building trust, and from a Hawaiian perspective, taught me how to do it effectively across sectors, religions and cultures. This kind of innate wisdom is not so simple to pass down and she has found a way to do so.
What’s your top personal and professional goal for the year ahead?
My top personal goal for the year ahead is to welcome in my ohana’s first water tiger! I am constantly inspired by the future that will be passed on to the generations we birth and raise. My top personal professional goal for the year ahead is to complete largest conservation purchase to date – Mahukona, a navigation and ecological complex on the Kohala coastline on Hawaii Island . With over $15 million public and private funds raised to date toward a $20 million goal, we hope to secure this land.
Helen Kekalia Wescoatt, 37
CEO, Molokai Community Health Center
Wescoatt built the health center’s telehealth capabilities from the ground up, and has since doubled the staff, implemented eight new programs, increased the number of patients, and boosted annual revenue by more than 15% to nearly $4.2 million.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken and how did it turn out?
When I was 13 years old, I moved from my home in Molokai to attend high school in Bridgman, Michigan. I left behind my family and the only home I knew to invest in diverse educational opportunities, hoping to broaden my set of knowledge and skills. I ended up living on the Mainland for 10 years and graduating from the International Academy of Design and Technology in Chicago, before moving back home and bringing a new perspective with me. Now, as CEO of Molokai Community Health Center, I’m able to apply the education I received on the Mainland to help solve the issues facing the local social and health care community at home.
Who was an important mentor for you and what did you learn from this person?
When I first entered the nonprofit sector, my supervisor was a licensed clinical social worker working with Child Welfare Services. He not only provided professional development opportunities surrounding mental health treatment in the community, but also transformed my perspective on how traditional business philosophies could work in conjunction with community-based services to address the whole individual in ways that promote long-term pathways out of poverty. He taught me to go beyond individuals and envision a different and better future for business and society. This holistic approach is something that continues to drive my current work at MCHC.
What’s your top personal and professional goal for the year ahead?
As the CEO of Molokai’s only Federally Qualified Health Center, I am committed to increasing health care accessibility for marginalized communities. Because of Molokai’s limited resources, many residents are forced to fly to other islands for health care services. I’m working toward not only increasing health care options on-island, but also encouraging patients to vote in this important election year to shape public policy and create a health care system that is more equitable.
Kuhio Lewis, 39
CEO, Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement
During the pandemic, CNHA played an integral role in dispersing more than $90 million in rent, mortgage and utility relief funds to local communities. Lewis also helped create an online marketplace, Pop Up Makeke, which has sold more than 200,000 Hawaii products. In 2019, he founded CNHA’s workforce training program for trades and service jobs.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken and how did it turn out?
Like many Hawaiians, I had to take risks to put myself in a position to succeed. Nothing was given; everything was earned. Of course, I didn’t make it easy for myself. I dropped out of high school. I was a single father of two before my 21st birthday. But no matter how big the hurdle was, I managed to overcome it. I pursued opportunities that would advance my family and my community. So many of the decisions I made were out of necessity, making the risk-taking seem more manageable. Whether it was running for office, taking leadership positions in my homestead community, leaving a comfortable government job to become the CEO of a once-small nonprofit, or trying to stand up programs to keep our local businesses open and our families housed during a pandemic, risk-taking becomes easier when failure is not an option.
Who was an important mentor for you, and what did you learn from this person?
I’ve had many mentors over the years. But the one I’ve been thinking about a lot lately is Colette Machado, longtime OHA chair and trustee representing Molokai. Her life path was like mine and her leadership style always resonated with me. She was a grassroots leader who had to learn to navigate both the community and political landscapes. Her recent passing was a huge loss for our community and me personally.
What’s your top personal and professional goal for the year ahead?
Hawaii is at a crossroads – a moment of hulihia, or what Hawaiians call a moment of transformative change. My goal is that we learn from the innovation and resilience our community used to get through the pandemic.
In the years before Covid, many resisted systemic change because they said it would be too hard. Well, the pandemic pushed Hawaii to our limits, and we didn’t just survive; we came out stronger as a community. My goal is to capitalize on this moment of hulihia so that our local families can continue to live and raise our families here.
Moreover, my goal is to show that when given the opportunity, Native Hawaiians can take the lead in finding answers to issues that impact all of Hawaii.
Marissa Machida, 37
Vice president and relationship manager, Bank of Hawaii
An attorney turned banker, Machida generates new business for BOH and is always looking for ways to provide financial education in the community. She chairs the financial well-being committee for the Hawaii State Bar Association and sits on the boards of Read To Me International, Hawaii Women’s Legal Foundation, and BOH’s Live Kokua Employee Volunteer Program, among others.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken and how did it turn out?
After I joined the bank, I later realized what a risk it was to switch professions from practicing law as a prosecutor and in private practice to business – they are often conflicting! During the pandemic, we were all reminded how fragile our community ecosystem is and saw a shift in businesses taking a more active role with [environmental, social and governance; diversity, equity and inclusion]; and other issues that were more prevalent in law. I love being part of a business that cares about justice and equality, as I was trained. That initial risk has definitely paid off – it’s broadened my mindset and abilities with everything I’m learning and now I have more tools to contribute.
Who was an important mentor for you and what did you learn from this person?
I’ve been lucky to have many wonderful mentors from my family, teachers, coaches, former employers, colleagues and friends, but a very important mentor is Amos Kotomori, a truly visionary multi-hyphenate before the word even existed. From our time together, I learned gratitude is everything.
What’s your top personal and professional goal for the year ahead?
Continue to enjoy the journey of learning and growing personally and professionally and sharing those lessons and joy.
Jonathan Marstaller, 36
President, Pono Pacific
Marstaller’s most recent accomplishment was overseeing construction of the longest predator-proof fence in the nation, enclosing 168 acres of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Under his leadership, Pono Pacific manages the 468-acre Kuilima Farm on Oahu’s North Shore with 12 tenant farmers, 34 community garden plots, and a roadside farm stand in partnership with Turtle Bay Resort. The farm has increased food production by 15 acres this year and currently produces more than 1,000 pounds of produce per week
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken and how did it turn out?
At the beginning of the pandemic, we kept our culinary staff going with free meal distribution when all of our events and caterings canceled. At that time, there were no [Paycheck Protection Program] or other funds available to support this effort, but in the end, we were able to raise over $200,000 in donations and distribute 100,000 meals.
Who was an important mentor for you and what did you learn from this person?
My college basketball coach, Mike Shauer. I learned the importance of personal discipline and what it means to lead with integrity.
What’s your top personal and professional goal for the year ahead?
Personal goal: Play golf one time or more a month. Professional goal: Continue laying the groundwork for a more sustainable Hawaii, and supporting more local businesses doing good work in our community.
Kimié Miner, 37
Owner, Haku Collective
Miner, a Grammy-nominated producer, singer-songwriter, recording artist and mother of three, co-founded Haku Collective – a multi-media talent production and management company created “by artists for artists.” She supports local nonprofits and runs Haku Collective’s mentor program.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken and how did it turn out?
Pursuing a career as an independent artist requires daily courage because the risks are high – but the rewards are higher. I took the faith-filled-risk when I moved back to the Islands, leaving behind notable industry opportunities to start my own label, Kimié Miner Music, overseeing my music catalogue. When I experienced the power of independent focus and hard work, I knew I could expand the impact of my dreams. Fifteen years later, I founded Haku Collective a management label committed to mentorship while providing resources and opportunities for emerging artists in Hawaii. I want my career and music to empower artists to embrace their own potential.
Who was an important mentor for you and what did you learn from this person?
Fiji is among the most memorable. I will never forget his advice, “The music business has nothing to do with music and everything to do with rights.” He taught me not only how to value myself but also my intellectual property. As an ‘artist for artists,’ I am investing that same confidence in the next generation in mele.
What’s your top personal and professional goal for the year ahead?
Personally, I want to raise my keiki with aloha, grace and guidance that inspires them to dream big and take risks. Finding the balance between motherhood, partner, executive, advocate and artist is a daily goal. Professionally, I want to fully express my artistry from recent discoveries of my multicultural heritage and identity. I want to elevate Hawaii’s music and global visibility. This year, I will release new music, visuals, a deluxe Christmas vinyl and [emark on]an island-to-island tour. I will also launch my newest program, Na Leo (the voices), a creative workshop that aims to teach Hawaii’s aspiring artists how to create quality music with artistic and holistic mindfulness while honoring culture. I want to inspire permission to reprioritize health and authenticity because in that balance one can source resilience – a reservoir of creativity. And the music industry demands resilience.
Micah Munekata, 37
Director of government affairs, Ulupono Initiative
Munekata brings legislative and communications experience to raise awareness of issues affecting farmers and ranchers across the state. Last year, he was instrumental in the passage of legislation directing the Hawaii state Department of Education to ensure that at least 30% of the food served in public schools comes from locally sourced products by 2030. 30.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken and how did it turn out?
The biggest risk I took was moving back home to Hawaii after finishing college and graduating from school on the Mainland. While the mainland provided many opportunities to start a career and settle down, I always found myself wanting to call Hawaii home again. This connection to place and community is what drives me in my work today, and I am grateful to work with so many great people along the way.
Who was an important mentor for you and what did you learn from this person?
As a post-college graduate looking for a professional start, I had the opportunity to speak with [former House Speaker] Calvin Say and discuss local government, public service and sense of place. It was during this conversation where I realized my future career path was here in Hawaii. Speaker Say taught me that I should never stop trying to learn, grow, and use every experience possible to develop myself both personally and professionally. I’m reminded of his words each day as this has been the foundation of my career path to date.
What’s your top personal and professional goal for the year ahead?
Over the next year, I look forward to travelling to new places, experiencing various cultures and trying diverse foods. My top professional goal is to continue to learn something new every day. Each experience, even if difficult, is a learning opportunity.
Ashley Nagaoka, 38
News anchor, Hawaii News Now
As an award-winning journalist, Nagaoka anchors two daily news broadcasts, “This is Now,” which airs at noon, and “First at Four” throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
When she’s not on air, she serves as a member of the Make-A-Wish Hawaii young leaders board, the Hawaii Food Bank’s Kauai advisory board, the U.S. Japan Council’s emerging leaders program, and the Domestic Violence Action Center’s board of directors.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken and how did it turn out?
In 2009, I decided to move across the country to Washington, D.C. – a place I had never been before. Leaving behind my family, friends, and my home state of Hawaii was daunting, but I was ready for a challenge and change of pace at that time in my life.
I took a job with then-Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa as her press secretary and spokeswoman, and it was truly the best of both worlds because I was on Capitol Hill, yet still working to help Hawaii. Living on the East Coast also provided lots of opportunities to travel, meet a new network of people, and attend big concerts and professional sporting events.
The personal and professional experience I gained in our nation’s capital is something I will always be thankful for.
Who was an important mentor for you and what did you learn from this person?
Jim Mendoza was the first news reporter I shadowed when I was hired at KGMB9 right out of college, and from that moment, he set the example for professionalism, storytelling, and integrity that I strive to follow every day. The TV news business is tough — both physically and mentally — and I admire how Jim has remained so positive, passionate, and kind over a 30-year career. It’s inspiring.
What’s your top personal and professional goal for the year ahead?
Personally, I will work to give myself grace as I navigate some upcoming life milestones. Professionally, we have had some changes at work with new technology and colleagues – my goal is that we maintain the Hawaii News Now standard for our viewers.
Rob Nelson, 38
President, Finance Factors Ltd.
As president, Nelson leads both company-wide strategy as well as operations for residential mortgages, commercial real estate loans, and deposit products. In the community, he serves on the boards of Kupu, a nonprofit empowering youth and promoting environmental stewardship, and the Finance Foundation, the company’s charitable giving arm. As a Hawaii Chamber of Commerce member, he enjoys sharing his expertise as a mentor for young professionals.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken and how did it turn out?
I enjoy taking on tough assignments. Why? I enjoy the process of discovery, learning and growth. When Bank of America was undergoing acquisition of Merrill Lynch amidst the uncertainty of a financial crisis, I requested my manager to be assigned to the acquisitions team. My enthusiasm and boldness were rewarded with the directive given to take the next available flight to New York City for the assignment. Though initially I didn’t have all the details, others didn’t either. Therefore, I felt compelled to figure it out. I remained persistent and grounded on the overall goal, ultimately, leading to success. This experience, along with others that followed, helped me grow as a disciplined professional and calculated risk-taker. As I remind my mentees, “ask for the tough assignments, to learn and grow laterally as you prepare to move up in your career.”
Who was an important mentor for you and what did you learn from this person?
My father is my most important mentor. As a small business owner, he taught me about the importance of being resourceful, the value of relationships, and the role of community. I watched him dabble in a myriad of roles and challenges as he navigated complex ecosystems as a small business owner. Through his lived experiences and being part of his home team, I also learned about the importance of balancing business and family needs. These early lessons became ingrained in my practice as a growing leader – learning to embrace uncertainty as a gateway to opportunity and success. I am proud to call him dad and mentor!
What’s your top personal and professional goal for the year ahead?
My top personal goal is to find more alone time with my wife, given our shared roles as career professionals and parents of two young children. My top professional goal is to empower our employees to be their best selves as we embrace our company’s history of 70 years, and legacy-making for many more to come.
© 2022 American City Business Journals. All rights reserved. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement (updated January 1, 2021) and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement (updated July 1, 2022). The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of American City Business Journals.
About Author
