What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

I’ve always been drawn to the ocean, and that passion led me to study Global Environmental Science and Oceanography at the University of Hawai‘i. Early in my career, I thought I would spend most of my time in the field—diving, boating, and collecting data. While I still do some of that, I discovered I was just as motivated by the bigger picture: Shaping projects, leading teams, and building partnerships that make coastal resilience possible. Over time, I realized I could have a greater impact not just through science, but through leadership—mentoring junior staff, connecting with clients and agencies, and ensuring projects move from concept to completion. That shift from scientist to leader has been the most rewarding part of my journey.

What has been your proudest “pinch me” moment so far?

One of my proudest moments was launching Hawai‘i’s first Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) STEM Camp for high school students. It started as my SAME National Leader Development Program capstone project, and with the help of 28 volunteers, multiple agencies, and industry partners, we created a camp that gave students hands-on exposure to engineering and STEM careers.

Seeing those students light up while building boats, creating pumps, and meeting mentors reminded me why I do what I do. It was one of those moments where I thought, “This is bigger than me—this is about building the future workforce of Hawai‘i.” Another “pinch me” moment was being recognized on the Pacific Business News 40 Under 40 list. It felt humbling to stand among peers making such a wide-ranging impact across the state.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned the hard way—but are grateful for?

Early on, I thought being a strong leader meant handling everything myself to make sure it was done right. But the reality is, leadership is about trust—trusting your team, giving them room to grow, and knowing that mistakes are part of the learning process. I had to learn that the hard way, after burning myself out by trying to take on too much. Now, I make it a priority to delegate meaningfully, empower others, and create space for collaboration. It’s incredibly rewarding to see junior staff step up, gain confidence, and deliver excellent work. That lesson reshaped my leadership style from being task-focused to being people-focused.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

Don’t be afraid to say “yes” to opportunities that stretch you, even if they feel outside your comfort zone. Some of my biggest growth moments came from stepping into leadership roles I didn’t initially feel ready for. Also, find good mentors and then pay it forward by mentoring others as you grow. Our industry is about much more than technical expertise—it’s about relationships, resilience, and integrity. Stay curious, ask questions, and remember that every project is a team effort. If you show up consistently, work hard, and treat people with respect, opportunities will follow.

Who is a local mentor, friend, or role model who inspires you?

I’ve been fortunate to have many mentors, but one who stands out is Captain Will Boudra, U.S. Navy (Ret.). He was my mentor in the SAME Leader Development  Program and continues to inspire me with his humility, wisdom, and servant-leader approach. Will’s mentorship is hands-on and insightful; he doesn’t simply offer advice—he leads by example and provides constructive feedback in real time. He challenges me to think bigger while staying grounded in values and relationships.

Under his guidance, I’ve learned what it means to be a vision-driven leader: Understanding the “why” behind every project and rallying others around that same goal. His encouragement has given me the confidence to pursue leadership roles I might not have considered.

One of Will’s greatest strengths is storytelling—sharing lessons from his experiences that are thoughtfully tailored to my growth. The number of stories he shares underscores his wealth of experience as well as his deep commitment to meaningful mentorship. Such care and attention into the professional development of others makes Will both precious and unique.

What’s your “elevator pitch”?

I’m inspired by the strong women around me—and by being an example for my daughter. My passion is bringing people together through a comfortable workspace and fun, inspiring, and entrepreneurial workshops.

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

I come from a family of entrepreneurs. They showed me what’s possible, and with the support of my husband, extended family, and community, I believed I could do it too.

What’s your go-to local coffee or smoothie order?

The Deep Green smoothie from Leahi Health—it’s the perfect balance of sweet and healthy.

Early bird or night owl—and what’s your morning routine like?

I’m naturally a night owl, but life has made me an early bird. My mornings usually start with getting myself and my daughter ready, a quick playdate with my mother-in-law, then heading to work to map out my day with ChatGPT.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?

I don’t have much of a social life outside of work. Because I’m in hospitality and events, my downtime is usually spent enjoying a quiet room.

You have one day off and no responsibilities—what’s your dream way to spend it in Hawai‘i?

A mini staycation at a nice hotel, sleeping in, ordering room service, strolling town with my husband, daughter, and our dog, Chief—and ending the night at The Cutlery in Kaimuki with Keawe Smoked Chicken and Mudpie Cake.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned the hard way—but are grateful for?

Big dreams come with big financial responsibility. Don’t bite off more than you can chew.

What has been your proudest “pinch me” moment so far?

Welcoming my baby girl and being able to bring her to work with my husband by my side. Seeing friends, family, and our community love on her in our space has been the most rewarding feeling.

What’s one thing you’re working on right now that excites you?

Savon has officially launched our in-house event series! From Murder Mystery Dinners to Bingo Nights, we’re bringing fresh, lighthearted fun to Hawai‘i Kai.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

Build your support system and invest in authentic relationships.

If your career had a theme song, what would it be?

Entry of the Gladiators by Julius Fučík.

What local restaurant or food truck are you obsessed with right now?

Earl Hawai‘i Sandwich—their Hot Honey Old Bay Chicken Sandwich is a hidden gem.

If you could have dinner with any leader (past or present), who would it be?

Robin Williams. I’d love to hear what he learned from stepping into characters with so much empathy, humility, and inspiration. Plus, I think he’d be an amazing dinner guest.

What’s one item on your 2025 bucket list—personal or professional?

Experiencing life through my daughter’s eyes—everything is new and exciting for her right now.

How do you want to make a difference in your community?

By making authentic connections and gatherings easy.

Who is a local mentor, friend, or role model who inspires you?

Every local business owner and entrepreneur I meet who’s building something meaningful while balancing personal life inspires me.

How do you define success for yourself right now?

Success is House of Savon running smoothly with regular gatherings, while my daughter grows up surrounded by good-hearted, loving people. It also means a strong home base with my husband, family, friends, and community.

What legacy do you hope to build as a young professional?

To learn the lessons of building a business from the ground up while prioritizing family—and to share those lessons with anyone walking a similar path.

What’s next for you?

Continuing to grow awareness of our private venue in Hawai‘i Kai through ongoing marketing efforts.

What is your “elevator pitch” and very briefly share what your company does.

We are a small family-owned and operated business, since 2008, that makes a line of tropical fruit infused Hawaiian sea salts and seasonings (and a small line of salt-free blends and even cane sugars). We want to bring our unique seasonings and blends into every home to not only “make eating healthy and fun” but to, theoretically, break bread with our customers and hanai family. Really bring people together through delicious food made with love by our hands, and hearts.

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

My mom started Salty Wahine when I went off to college to get my degree, a BFA in film. Seeing her passion come through, not only from growing up and passing along these unique blends as gifts during the holidays, but from a vision with only $500 dollars in her pocket to fruition not only inspired me but made me want to keep her legacy going. And growing it to be the awesome company it is today.

Keeping the reason she started Salty Wahine true to our hearts and making it for over 15 years really helps us feel beyond connected. Not only to our seasonings but our home and loved ones. To know this love has transferred from multiple generations really inspired me to cook at home and teach our almost 5-year-old, Liliana Rose, the importance of what we do.

What’s been the proudest pinch me moment so far?

It would have to be when my mother and wife submitted one of my first blends into the fiery food show in Texas back in 2020. The blend is our Island Volcano Seasoning, which is great on everything. The moment that made me proud was seeing the amount of awards that this product won. It won Best in Show, the People’s Choice Award, and Best on Pork, and chicken. The People’s Choice Award is probably my favorite due to the “people” who attended the event, voting and choosing the seasoning that I created. I didn’t know they had entered it on my behalf and feel honored to be standing with the big BBQ companies in Texas. My wife is most proud of me creating a special prime rib rub for the Aulani Resort on O‘ahu that is still used to this day, as she is a huge Disney fanatic.

What’s one thing you’re working on right now that excited you?

We are currently trying to name a blend that our daughter Liliana and I made about six months ago. It may seem minor but getting her involved in our business has been exciting. Letting her help in the kitchen has been a fun discovery for both of us, and naming this new Smoky Garlic salt-free blend may sound small, but after having released a whole salt-free line in our line of Hawaiian Sea Salts and Seasonings has opened so many doors to more people trying our blends who wouldn’t have in the first place. Liliana’s name and hands will be a part of Salty Wahine forever and hopefully move on to the next generation, too. She loves to clean the kitchen at work; now, if we can manage to get her to clean her room is another story.

Why do I deserve to be recognized as a young professional?

Full disclosure. I, Sean’s wife Jessika, am the one filling out this form. Not because Sean isn’t capable, but he is the rock that holds things together and the logic to our duo. Whereas I am the emotional, extroverted individual who likes to talk story and sing. He is the ying to my yang and deserves everything good that comes to him.

Not only is he a good husband, a good father, and a good chef but he truly exudes what it is to be a good future owner, a good manager, and he is someone good to look up to. For the younger generations to come, he really is patient and kind with his teachings. Watching him raise our Liliana and direct our staff and our household really has me looking forward to all that he is. There is no one more deserving of this sort of honor.

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

I’ve always been passionate about storytelling and communication, but my path really came into focus during a two-month Fulbright-Hays fellowship in the Philippines while I was in college and teaching full-time. I had the chance to interview scientists and teachers on the island of Apo, and through those conversations I discovered how much I love capturing people’s stories through a cultural lens and sharing them in a way that connects with others. Being in the news now, I get to connect with people in a very similar way!

What’s one thing you’re working on right now that excites you?

One thing I’m really excited about right now is the work I’m doing with KHON2—hosting, producing, and editing. I get to lead projects such as Kau Kau Wala‘au, a new podcast where we sit down with local legends and highlight eateries in our community. We “kau kau” (eat) and “wala‘au” (talk) while discussing each guest’s journey. I also host Wahine Wednesday, a series that shines a light on inspiring women-owned businesses across Hawai‘i and the impact they’re making. Both projects allow me to celebrate our community and share stories that bring people together, which is what I love most about this work.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

My advice would be to just start and do because growth happens while you’re creating. Life is short, work hard on everything you do whether that’s practicing your storytelling, showing up on social media, or saying yes to opportunities that stretch you. It’s okay to try it all, don’t fear failure. Rejection is truly redirection in a lot of circumstances! Above all, be kind to everyone—this industry is built on relationships, and the way you treat people will always leave a lasting impression.

How do you want to make a difference in your community?

I want to make a difference in my community by sharing Hawai‘i’s stories in ways that honor our culture and people. That’s why I’m especially excited about an upcoming project with Travel + Leisure magazine, where I’ll be a contributing social media host on mini-series that highlight Hawai‘i on a global scale. It’s an opportunity to showcase our islands beyond the surface—to celebrate our food, culture, and community—and I hope it inspires both locals and visitors to see Hawai‘i through a more authentic lens.

I also make it a priority to stay involved with local nonprofits, whether it’s volunteering time or giving back through the profits from my children’s book. I believe it’s about using every platform to be involved and help where you can in our community.

What legacy do you hope to build as a young professional?

I think a legacy is something lasting—it’s less about titles or accomplishments and more about the way you’ve made people feel and the values you’ve passed on—that is what is remembered. For me, I hope my legacy is one of lifting others up, reminding young people that rejection is often just redirection and that we should collaborate with others in our field versus viewing them as competition.

I want to show that every “no” can be the push that leads you to the right “yes,” and that setbacks are really just stepping stones.

Through storytelling, I hope to keep opening doors for others, celebrating Hawai‘i, and creating spaces where voices are heard and honored. If that inspires someone to dream bigger, keep going, or give back to their own community, then that’s the kind of lasting impact I’d love to leave behind!

What’s your “elevator pitch”?

I’ve been in professional services marketing, particularly in the legal and financial services fields, for over 15 years across Tokyo, New York, and now Honolulu. I’m also a proud mommy to a son, Asahi, and daughter, Maddie. I grew up in Japan and New York and have been living in Hawaiʻi for about five years.

You have one day off and no responsibilities—what’s your dream way to spend it in Hawai‘i?

I would grab a latte and almond croissant and enjoy them at the beach. Then I would go to a Fit4Mom class, which I’ve been a regular at since my daughter Maddie was born. I would make sure to sneak in a nap, since I tend to miss those during the work week, before going on a shopping spree. I’d end the day trying to convince my husband Matt to join me for a happy hour cocktail somewhere before returning to reality!

What has been your proudest “pinch me” moment so far?

This year, the Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals (YP) named me Committee Member of the Year at the annual awards for my role as Co-Chair of the Communications Committee. Joining YP has been one of the highlights of my professional career because I have made so many long-lasting friendships and business connections that I am confident I will have forever. I could not have gotten here without my fellow committee members, and I am so grateful for all of them.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

In professional services marketing, your colleagues are your clients. It’s crucial for them to know who you are so they can come to you for help. Especially when you are new to the company, make sure to attend every social event, every party, and every volunteer event so that as many people as possible see who you are. Your professionals will not be willing to work with you unless they can trust you.

What’s next for you?

I am currently President-Elect for the Rotary Club of Kahala Sunrise and gearing up to be President next year. I will be starting my President-Elect training and have taken on the role as planning chair for our annual fundraiser, Viva RoCKS Vegas casino night, at Oahu Country Club on February 28. I also look forward to continuing on the YP Steering Committee for the rest of the year and making an impact for the Communications Committee.

As for my career, I am looking forward to using the resources offered by both my organization and extracurriculars to continue growing and learning. I just started at my current job a few months ago and there is certainly a lot to learn, but my colleagues and especially my Managing Partner, Jamie Delgadillo, have been extremely supportive, and I have felt very lucky about having such amazing colleagues.

What’s your go-to local coffee or smoothie order?

Vietnamese coffee from Whole Foods. Though during fall, I’m an anything pumpkin girlie.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?

I grew up riding horses in Waimanalo and used to compete in Dressage shows. In 2003, my close friend and I became the first riders from Hawai‘i to compete in the North American Young Riders Championships which was held in Bromont, Quebec, that year. We raised close to $40,000 to cover the costs, flew our horses from Hawai‘i to New York and then drove up to Canada for the competition. Did we win? No. But the experience of representing Hawai‘i at this prestigious competition remains one of the most unforgettable adventures of my life.

What’s one thing you’re working on right now that excites you?

What excites me most is the chance to help bring creative ideas to life and see them make an impact. Recently, I was involved in launching a new advertising campaign that included producing live action TV commercials. Being a part of the entire process—from storyboard development and selecting talent to being on set working with the production team—and then seeing the finished product in the wild has been really rewarding.

How do you want to make a difference in your community?

I want to make a meaningful difference in my community by helping ensure that everyone—especially our most vulnerable neighbors—can access the healthcare they deserve. My own journey as a single parent navigating the challenges of unemployment and relying on Medicaid opened my eyes to how crucial these public programs are.

Working at AlohaCare allows me to give back by advocating for and supporting individuals and families who depend on Medicaid. For me, making a difference means helping others overcome obstacles and contributing to building healthier communities.

Who is a local mentor, friend, or role model who inspires you?

I previously worked as the Office Manager at BT Consulting, Inc., a lobbying firm based in Honolulu. During that time, I had the opportunity to work alongside Nahe Webster who now owns her own successful lobbying firm.

Nahe embodies the qualities I aspire to—drive, focus, and visionary thinking. She consistently encouraged me to seek out new avenues for professional growth and has been a trusted source of honest, constructive advice. Her mentorship continues to inspire me to challenge myself and pursue excellence in my career. I’m also grateful to call her a friend.

What’s your “elevator pitch”?

I am the Business Development Manager at Bishop & Company, a local, woman-owned staffing agency based in Honolulu. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Bishop & Company specializes in both temporary and direct hire placements, supporting roles across all levels—from entry-level to executive. Our core focus includes administrative roles such as customer service, accounting, marketing, and human resources, as well as IT and executive leadership positions. I joined the team earlier this year, and it has been a privilege to work alongside talented and dedicated professionals.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned the hard way—but are grateful for?

Over-prepare. I have learned to always be prepared and have a back-up plan (especially if it involves technology!). Planning and preparation are equally as important as execution.

What’s one thing you’re working on right now that excites you?

I am honored to serve as this year’s President of the Organization of Women Leaders (OWL) Hawaii, and to collaborate with an exceptional board of dedicated and inspiring women. Founded over 40 years ago, OWL is a respected local organization with a membership of 90 women leaders across diverse sectors.  OWL provides a powerful support network for women navigating leadership roles within Hawai‘i’s unique cultural and civic landscape. Through professional development, peer-to-peer support, and meaningful recognition, OWL empowers its members to broaden their influence and effectiveness as leaders.

How do you want to make a difference in your community?

I have been involved with many organizations throughout my career, but the most impactful has been my time with the Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals. I served as Chair of the Professional Development Committee and am currently the Chair of the Wahine committee. This experience has allowed me to contribute to our community by developing local leaders so they can live, work, and thrive in Hawai‘i. Our mission is to empower young professionals as stewards of the business community through professional development while enhancing personal networks to foster Hawai‘i’s current and future business leaders.

What legacy do you hope to build as a young professional?

Over the past year, my focus has been on fostering community and cultivating meaningful connections. I have approached this with intention, strengthening existing relationships while actively building new ones grounded in shared purpose. I find fulfillment in bringing people together around a common cause, and I am continually inspired by the impact that collective effort can achieve. Guided by the belief that “a rising tide lifts all boats,” I am committed to uplifting others, recognizing that shared success benefits us all. As I look ahead, I am deeply grateful for opportunities to give back and serve my community, and I am excited to continue contributing in ways that create lasting, positive change.

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

My father. He’s a respected restaurateur who has been in the industry since 1969 and has taught me nearly everything I know. It is important to me to keep his legacy alive.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?

My lineage. I’m a Persian, Portuguese, Hawaiian Jew!

My maternal great-grandmother was born on Maui but grew up on Moloka‘i where our family (the Apana family) was from. I’m also a descendent of Bishop Stephen Alencastre who was the Catholic Bishop of Hawai‘i until he passed away in 1940. He helped build Sacred Hearts Church in Makiki and is featured in the stained glass windows of Our Lady Peace Cathedral in downtown Honolulu.

I’m quite the “mixed plate”! My husband, Rabbi Ryan (Raanan) Mallek, is currently serving in the U.S. Navy as the only Jewish chaplain for the Pacific Fleet based at Pearl Harbor. Together we help oversee the Aloha Jewish Chapel on base, which will be celebrating its 50th anniversary this coming Hanukkah. Between work and family, we certainly have our hands full!

How do you define success for yourself right now?

Watching my children grow up happy and healthy. Next to God, family and health are the two most important things in my life.

What legacy do you hope to build as a young professional?

To build Kula Lodge & Restaurant into a wonderful gathering place for locals and tourists alike, through many generations to come. It will one day belong to my children, and I hope they will use the property to serve and take care of the community as my family and I have. I have always said that having Hawaiian blood and being an integral part of the Hawaiian islands, that it’s our kuleana to perpetuate the Aloha Spirit and malama the land and the people.

What’s next for you?

Rebuilding the restaurant at Kula Lodge to be better than ever after the fire and welcoming in all our beloved guests again. In the interim we have an amazing food trailer on property that Chef Raul and our GM Megan Leake have been putting their heart and soul into. It’s exciting to watch and has provided hope and beauty in such a tragic time.

What’s your “elevator pitch” and very briefly share what your company or organization does?

We are Hawai‘i’s premier drone light show company, specializing in turnkey aerial productions that captivate and inspire. Using the night sky as our canvas, we transform your vision into a dynamic visual story—choreographed in light by state of the art drones.

From intimate gatherings to large scale public events, we craft unforgettable experiences that leave lasting impressions. If you can imagine it, we can bring it to life in the sky.

What local restaurant or food truck are you obsessed with right now?

There’s this incredible little sushi spot tucked away in the lobby of Central Pacific Bank Downtown—real low key, real delicious. It’s called Aloha Bento, and word on the street is they’ve got big things cooking for their second anniversary. It is totally hidden gem status, and hands down my favorite unknown pau hana spot with free parking, no less.

Who is a local mentor, friend, or role model who inspires you?

When I was younger, an older friend once gave me advice that stuck with me: “Go out and find your own mentors. They don’t need to know you—but if you can observe them, you can learn from them.”

That idea shaped my path early on. I studied leaders like Steve Jobs, Bruce Lee, Ron Paul, Gary Vaynerchuk, Elon Musk, Jensen Huang, and even the Toyota Corporation along with many others. Each taught me something different—from relentless tenacity and creative vision to discipline, innovation, and a deep sense of accountability.

My real transformation, though, began when I chartered Junior Chamber International (JCI) Honolulu in 2014. Through this young leadership nonprofit, I found a community of peers and mentors who helped shape not just my leadership style—but my character. I was even able to meet my fiancée through our service to the community there. Many of my advisors then were from a time where we were called the Jaycees and served during a time when the organization was much larger than it is today.

They poured their wisdom into us—sharing stories of impact, failures, and hard earned lessons. We translated those insights into action and built something for a new generation of aspiring young leaders.

Today, I’m honored to serve as a Board Director for the Japan America Society of Hawaii, where I continue to learn from remarkable individuals committed to bridging cultures and generations. Hawai‘i is filled with leaders who lead not with titles, but with generosity and belief in others—and I’m grateful to learn from many of them every day.

I truly believe that legacy is not just what you build but who you empower—and there’s no limit to what you can do when good people believe in you.

What legacy do you hope to build as a young professional?

I believe leadership matters—whether in the private sector, public service, or our communities. Leadership is what brings great people together to accomplish great things. I first became involved with Junior Chamber International because I believed in the power of leadership and the importance of community. Through JCI Honolulu, I’ve spent years helping to build a culture of compassionate leadership where young professionals are empowered to take risks, to lead with purpose and serve with heart.

Alongside my peers, we didn’t just create programs—we built an ecosystem. A space where young leaders could grow, make mistakes, try bold ideas, and learn how to lead by doing. We proved that with the right support, young professionals can turn vision into action—and build something meaningful from the ground up.

The legacy I hope to leave is one of inspiration and impact—where others look at what we built and say, “I can do that too.” I want to show that young leaders can shape their future, not by waiting for permission, but by creating their own opportunities. As my chapter as a “young professional” begins to transition, I want what we’ve built to remain: an active, living ecosystem where future leaders feel seen, supported, and emboldened to find their own way forward. At the heart of it all, I hope they carry with them what I’ve come to believe deeply—compassionate leadership isn’t just powerful, it’s essential.

What’s next for you?

What’s next? Honestly, even I’m not entirely sure and that’s the exciting part. I’ve been meaning to finally sit down and learn Japanese, a goal I’ve carried since 2020. Maybe I’ll carve out the time, or maybe I’ll find myself back in Japan, not just as a traveler but exploring new ventures.

There’s also a part of me that wonders if I could even lead a company to IPO. Who knows? What I do know is this: I’ve never been one to sit still. I loved my LEGOs and I love building things. Whether it’s launching a new project, building community, or chasing the next big idea, I’ll keep moving forward—curious, driven, and maybe just a little unpredictable. I think it will be a lot of fun.

What’s your “elevator pitch”?

Hi, I’m Adrienne-Joy Jataas, co-founder of UBAE—short for “Ube Before Anything Else.” We’re a Hawai‘i-based dessert company inspired by Filipino flavors, with a spotlight on ube, the vibrant purple yam that’s taken the culinary world by storm. What started as a home kitchen passion project has grown into a thriving brand known for our signature cheesecakes, cookies, dairy-free soft serve, and seasonal treats. At UBAE, we’re not just selling desserts—we’re sharing culture, family tradition, and a fresh take on island-inspired sweets.

What inspired you to pursue the path you’re on today?

My husband, Jeremy, plays a huge role. Although he’s behind the scenes, he’s a pretty significant driving force behind the success of our business. I wouldn’t be able to take credit without mentioning his role in leadership and risk-taking from day one. Growing up, I’ve also watched my parents build and run their own business with resilience, heart, and an unwavering work ethic—values that shaped my own journey. Their example showed me what it meant to create something meaningful from the ground up. Today, Jeremy and I carry that same spirit forward not just for ourselves, but for our three children. They are a constant reminder of why we push boundaries, embrace challenges, and build a legacy they can be proud of.

What’s your go-to local coffee or smoothie order?

There are so many great local coffee shops around the island, we love it! But, “The King” from Ali‘i Coffee has been a long-time favorite for us. Pair that with their tuna melt or croissant-wich, and you’re good to go!

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?

Start small and stay consistent. Consistency is key! Don’t be afraid to evolve. It can get uncomfortable, but the fun part is stepping out of your comfort zone to seek growth. In the food industry, your product is important, but your ability to adapt and build genuine connections with the community is what creates lasting success. Stay true to yourself and why you started in the first place, and let that guide you through the inevitable highs and lows.

What legacy do you hope to build as a young professional?

As a young professional, I hope to build a legacy rooted in passion, purpose, and cultural pride. I want to show it’s possible to chase your dreams while honoring where you come from and that success isn’t just measured in numbers, but through impact. Through UBAE, I aim to inspire the next generation—especially my children—to believe in their ideas, lead with heart, and create businesses that bring people together through shared experiences and meaningful stories.