How has growing up or living in Hawai‘i influenced the way you serve others?
Growing up in Hawai‘i shaped every aspect of how I serve and care for others. Being surrounded by extended family taught me early on that we are part of something greater than ourselves and that we each have a responsibility to support one another. I also learned that our actions reflect not only ourselves, but on the people and values we represent. The importance of caring for others, showing respect, and serving with humility are values deeply rooted in ʻohana that have strongly influenced how I strive to serve others today.
Who was an early mentor that shaped your leadership style?
One of my earliest and most influential mentors was my aunty. In my early twenties, I worked in my family’s business, where she taught me the importance of always taking care of the customer, appreciating and valuing your employees, and paying close attention to details. Those values have stayed with me throughout my hospitality career.
After college, I had the opportunity to interview for a position at the corporate office of a global hotel company. I remember doubting whether I was truly qualified, but my aunty encouraged me with a simple statement: “Who wouldn’t want to hire you?” That belief and confidence she had in me gave me the courage to take that next step. That experience has stayed with me as a leader. I strive to encourage and uplift others in the same way, especially when they are ready to grow into new opportunities but may not yet see their own potential.
How do you inspire your team when morale feels low?
When morale feels low, I believe communication becomes even more important. Taking the time to check in with team members individually, as well as coming together as a group, helps ensure everyone feels heard, supported, and aligned.
I also believe in creating opportunities for connection outside of day-to-day operations. A shared meal, off-site gathering or team activity helps strengthen relationships, build trust, and remind everyone that we are working toward shared goals together. Even small moments of connection can have a meaningful impact on team morale and culture.
What responsibility does hospitality have in honoring local culture and community?
Hospitality has an important responsibility to honor and respect the local culture and community it represents. Being born and raised in Hawai‘i and as someone who is part Hawaiian, I feel a deep personal connection to that responsibility. After spending time away and making the decision to return home, I knew I wanted my career in hospitality to be centered on serving both our local community and our visitors in a thoughtful and meaningful way.
To me, hospitality extends far beyond service, it is about creating authentic connections, uplifting local culture, and ensuring that the people, traditions, and values of Hawai‘i are treated with genuine respect and care. I believe hospitality has the unique ability to educate, preserve, and share the spirit of aloha in meaningful ways, while also supporting and giving back to the communities that make Hawai‘i so special.
When all is said and done, what do you hope people remember about the way you made them feel?
A few months ago, I attended an event where a banquet server asked me, “Ms. Sheryl, is there anything else I can get for you?” I was surprised because I wasn’t wearing a name tag and didn’t recognize him. When I asked how he knew my name, he shared that his wife had previously worked with me at a hotel I managed. Knowing that a former employee had spoken positively about me to their family was one of the greatest compliments I could receive as a leader. At the end of the day, I hope people remember that I made them feel seen, valued, and respected. I hope the people I’ve had the privilege to work alongside felt supported, appreciated, and genuinely cared for; not just as employees, but as individuals.
