Who was your greatest role model or mentor growing up?

I was lucky to grow up with many. My dad showed me what hard work and grit looked like, all while demonstrating the importance of showing up. No matter how busy he was in his career, he made it to every game and every moment that mattered. He’s my biggest cheerleader.

My mom is the epitome of unconditional love. She showed me how to care for others and value myself. I strive everyday to be more like her, as a person and a mother. My tūtū taught me the meaning of strength, beating cancer four times while staying incredibly positive through it all. Today, she is 93 years young! And my Aunty Sweetie guided me on my career path. As a radio personality, she made everything look fun and exciting and I remember thinking as a young girl, “I wanna do that!” Each of them has shaped me in such meaningful ways and I am forever grateful.

What do you consider your greatest strength?

I think one of my greatest strengths is that I’m accepting of everyone for who they are and what they bring to the table. We all come from different walks of life, so I like to approach people with an open mind and without judgement; always aiming to see them in their best light. It helps me connect with others and appreciate what makes each person unique.

What motivates you on your toughest days?

Perspective. When things feel overwhelming, I think about my kids and my ‘ohana. I remind myself of how much l’ve been given, the people who support me, and the challenges l’ve already made it through.

Taking a moment to feel grateful for it all helps me shift my mindset and find the strength to keep going. On another note, a good butt-kicking workout helps too!

What is one risk you took that really paid off?

Leaving the “dream job” I worked long and hard to obtain.

It was a gamble. I knew if I walked away, I might not get an opportunity like that again. But I love to bet on myself, and I went all in anyway to focus on other parts of my life; travel to bucket list destinations and even start a family. This time away gave me the clarity to discover what I truly wanted, becoming a defining moment in my life where I learned to always follow my na‘au. It turned out to be one of the best decisions l’ve ever made…And now I’m back, team HNN!

What would your younger self be most proud of you for today?

She’d be most proud that all those times she got in trouble for talking in class have finally paid off. That little girl would also be pretty stoked to be on TV lol. But most importantly, she would be proud that I stayed true to myself. I held onto my roots and values and remained genuine through it all—never straying from the person l’ve always been.

What has been your proudest professional achievement so far?

My proudest professional achievement is the opportunity to serve others and positively impact families in our community. At Child and Family Service, we hold ourselves to a high standard, and I am inspired every day by how creativity, compassion, and innovation can change lives.

One example is our Hope and Healing Sexual Abuse Program, which has supported more than 300 families across our state. Through trauma-informed screening, counseling, and evidence-based interventions, we help families navigate one of the most painful experiences imaginable. Watching survivors rediscover safety, strength, and hope has been one of the most meaningful parts of my career.

Another example is our partnership with the police department, where we developed an evidence-based intervention aimed at saving lives in domestic violence situations. This collaboration not only protects people but also supports first responders, giving officers tools to approach high-risk situations with greater safety and empathy. Together, we create a bridge between crisis response and long-term healing, ensuring families receive the support they need when they need it most.

These experiences remind me that real change happens when people come together with purpose, compassion, and dedication. Being part of that change is my greatest professional accomplishment.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

As a woman in business, I have learned that courage is not optional, it is essential. We are often reminded that the paths we take are not always easy, yet they are filled with purpose. One of the greatest lessons I’ve discovered is that women possess unique and powerful abilities to lead. Our empathy, intuition, and lived experiences keep us grounded. They help us connect deeply with those we serve and create workplaces where people feel seen, supported, and valued. Women naturally lead with collaboration and compassion, qualities that strengthen teams and elevate entire organizations.

But our journeys also come with real challenges. As a mother of two young children, I understand how often women are asked to choose between career and family. These pressures can weigh heavily, and many women feel they must sacrifice one dream to honor another.

This is why I am profoundly grateful to have spent my career at Child and Family Service, an organization that recognizes the full humanity of women. Here, we strive to build pathways where women do not have to choose. We support them in pursuing meaningful careers while also being present, loving parents if they wish to be.

What’s your vision for women in your industry 10 years from now?

My vision for women in my industry 10 years from now is a future where workplaces are truly supportive places, where women can bring their whole selves without fear of limitation or judgment. I imagine organizations that not only acknowledge the importance of family, but actively foster it, recognizing that strong families create strong professionals and stronger communities.

In this future, systems within our organizations will be intentionally designed to wrap around women at every stage of their careers. Instead of barriers, there will be pathways clear, attainable, and supported. Women will have access to mentorship, leadership development, and flexible structures that allow them to grow without having to choose between their personal lives and their professional aspirations.

My vision is that women will stand confidently in positions of influence, fully empowered to lead, inspire, and shape the future of our field. And they will do so in workplaces that believe in their brilliance, honor their journeys, and celebrate their success.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

As a child, I faced many adversities, much like the families we serve at Child and Family Service. Looking back, I would tell my younger self to be brave and bold, to hold onto courage even when the world feels overwhelming, and to never lose the most authentic parts of who you are. Those pieces of you, the ones that sometimes make you feel different or out of place, will one day become your greatest strengths.

I would tell her that although she may feel like she doesn’t quite fit in now, that feeling is not a flaw. It is a seed. In time, it will grow into empathy, resilience, and a powerful ability to connect with others. One day, she will use those experiences to help families who feel just as lost as she once did. And I would tell her this: When you get older, you will find a community filled with love, compassion, and grace. You will not stand alone. You will do meaningful, amazing things alongside people who believe in you and together, you will help others find hope.

Describe your leadership style in three words.

Authentic, creative, courageous.

What would your younger self be most proud of you for today?

If my younger self could see me now, I hope she would be proud of the deep love I hold for my community and my family. I hope she would see that staying true to yourself is a strength, not a limitation. I want young women and men to know that family comes first, you come first, and your happiness matters. When you honor your values and allow your natural light to shine, you never have to worry about your career. It will grow naturally from the person you choose to become.

What motivates you on the tough days?

For me, there are two types of tough days. The first is when something unexpected occurs or goes wrong. Typically, that requires so much extra time and energy to navigate through for things that are out of my control to get back on track. Because my job and volunteer activities are mission-driven, the mission is always enough to bounce back from that.

The second is inadvertently making a mistake that results in either disappointing myself or someone in my inner circle. I’ve come to accept that to err is human. Especially after learning about the impact of ADHD and a couple of health blips, I am more reflective and keep in mind what is truly important. I asked a colleague once how she stayed so patient. She said, “I just give others grace.” I took that to heart and each time I give or receive grace, I feel rejuvenated.

What is one risk you took that really paid off?

In 2014, I transitioned away from marketing and project management to more fully delve into community relations as Public Interface Manager of a rail project. That meant long hours on the job site while wearing a hard hat and steel-toed boots. Creating a community relations plan, and being a liaison to client and area stakeholders led me to work on HART’s Public Information team where I got to hone those community relations skills.

When I was invited to interview for an agency public relations position, I soon learned what my wise boss already knew—a strong background in community and stakeholder relations, combined with diverse contacts and communications experience, can be valuable assets in the specialty field of public relations. Eleven years ago, I began a new path that has led to much professional and personal fulfillment.

What’s a song that always gets you pumped up?

There are two, actually. The first is “Rise Up.” The lyrics are amazing and so encouraging. The second is “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield. My daughter and I used to sing and dance to it when it first came out, and anytime I hear it, it lights me up.

What’s your vision for women in your industry 10 years from now?

In 10 years, I imagine AI will play a larger role in public relations and all communication fields in general. Media may be more complex with platforms and influencers that are yet to rise, which creates the environment for even more misinformation and untruths to spread.

Given that context, my vision is for women in our industry to have kept pace with new technology and utilized professional development opportunities to expand their core skills. To stay relevant, women in PR will continue to demonstrate the importance of human input, relationships, and relevance that creates value to the C-suite. We experienced that during the pandemic, when PR rose in stature. The public, private, and non-profit sectors will still need a trustworthy individual to forge stronger connections, build credibility, and mitigate challenges with their public and stakeholders. Embrace change, use all the technology possible to make work life easier and create that work-home harmony.

Who was your biggest role model or mentor growing up?

Growing up, my mother. We left our home country when I was 7 due to civil war and my parents both being ethnic minorities there. My mother demonstrated strong values and work ethic. She also showed me what it was like to live with grit and courage. My mom lost her mom at a young age and growing up, not many girls went into science. She asked her father to transfer her to an all-boys school to do so, went to an international conference at 18, and enrolled in a master’s program at an American university.

As a young female teacher in a local college, she rode a bike back and forth to home. All these acts were groundbreaking during her time. When we left, she even sewed money into the hems of her sarees so that we had enough funds to start a new life (more than the imposed limit). She always encouraged us to travel, to be good environmental stewards, and encouraged my pursuits. As my career progressed in the male-dominated fields of construction and engineering after moving back to Hawai‘i after time on the continent, she was my biggest cheerleader.

Who is one woman you’d love to have dinner with and why?

There are so many, it’s hard to choose! Today, I think of Jane Fonda because she has lived such a multi-faceted life. Her ongoing environmental activism and standing up for her beliefs even to the detriment of her career are inspirational. The energy and gusto with which she lives her life, through her 80s, is incredible. I need to ask her for all her self-care tips!

What inspired you to start your career in this field?

I had always dreamed of creating a new kind of wellness and lifestyle med spa—one that unites science, beauty, and health under one roof. I saw that the future of wellness and beauty are deeply connected, yet that niche wasn’t being filled here in the islands the way I would want to experience it—so I created it! I wanted to build a wellness social lounge for both our kamaʻāina and island visitors that focuses not only on longevity and regenerative aesthetics, but also on helping people live longer and better. A place that feels luxurious yet welcoming—where you walk out feeling better than when you walked in.

What has been your proudest professional achievement so far?

Taking an idea—a vision of wellness, regenerative aesthetics, and community—and bringing it to life. Creating a space that’s not only beautiful, but offers meaningful wellness experiences that nurture the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

I’ve learned that not everyone will celebrate your success—and sometimes, that even includes other women. There will always be people who try to imitate your ideas or follow your path, but instead of letting that discourage me, I’ve learned to take it as a compliment. It means I’m doing something worth noticing. I’ve also learned that integrity and authenticity matter, even when others don’t always share the same values. There will always be challenges, peaks, and lows, but the most important thing is to keep believing in yourself and the purpose behind what you’re building. Leading with grace, resilience, and self-belief is important to me.

What motivates you on the tough days?

My children motivate me in every aspect of my life—they are the reason I refuse to fail. But my patients and my team inspire me just as much. I truly believe in what I’m creating and know this is the future of beauty and wellness. There are definitely days when I pause and think, “What am I trying to create here?” but then emotional testimonials from patients and the energy of my incredible staff remind me why I do this. Spending time with my team uplifts me just as I hope I uplift them, and those moments keep me motivated even on the toughest days.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

I’d tell myself not to let the opinions of others shape your dreams—I did, and it took me years to bring mine to fruition. Don’t let anyone tell you you’re too young or too old; I’ve heard it all, and if I had let it hold me back, I wouldn’t be where I am today. People will say your business or ideas “won’t work in Hawai‘i” or that they’re too forward-thinking—but the truth is, you just have to believe in yourself. And if it doesn’t work out? Learn, adapt, and keep going. So…maybe that’s two pieces of advice. Or three. But honestly, who’s counting?

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

Never feel guilty about being clear with your boundaries. That has been one of the hardest and most important lessons I’ve learned. It’s so easy—especially for women—to fall into the habit of overextending ourselves, saying yes to everything, or feeling responsible for everyone else’s comfort. But real leadership means holding space for yourself, too. Setting boundaries isn’t about saying no. It’s about protecting the energy and focus needed to lead well, build intentionally, and show up as your best self every day.

What motivates you on the tough days?

Really leaning into my gratitude…and my team. I’m surrounded by an incredible group of women, most of whom are the primary providers for their families. That drives me in a deep way. I feel a real sense of purpose in helping create stability, opportunity, and growth for them. Seeing their wins, their confidence, their evolution—those are the things that keep me going, even on the toughest days. I’m constantly inspired by their grit, humor, and heart.

What’s your morning routine or ritual that sets the tone for your day?

I get up super early around 5:30 every morning and give myself time before the world starts moving. I meditate, pray, do my gratitude practice, feed my animals and plants, and just start my day slowly and quietly. My days are usually very fast-paced and full of energy, so beginning in total calm and silence is intentional. That slow, grounded start helps me center, clear my mind, and move through the rest of the day with focus and presence.

What’s the best way you like to recharge after a busy week?

I’m super active, so for me, recharging means being outdoors as much as possible—surfing, running, Pilates, strength training, hiking—anything that gets me moving and connected to nature. I love spending that time with the people I love, just laughing and decompressing. Lately, I’ve also been really into contrast therapy. It’s such a powerful way to reset physically and mentally. Those moments remind me how important it is to refill my own cup before starting a new week.

Describe your leadership style in three words.

Honest (even and especially during tough times), extremely communicative and transparent, supportive, accepting, and fully committed to my team. I know that’s more than three words but that’s really how I lead. I believe in creating an environment of openness, trust, and accountability where people feel seen, heard, and empowered to bring their best selves to the table.

What would your younger self be most proud of you for today?

That I’m a great mom, aunty, daughter, and friend. And that I don’t hold onto anything negative. Life and business can both be intense, but I’ve learned to release things quickly, forgive easily, and move forward with grace. My younger self would be proud that I’ve stayed true to who I am, surrounded myself with good people, and built a life and career rooted in love, creativity, and purpose.

What has been your proudest professional achievement so far?

I’m proud of everything I’ve been able to do on behalf of the people I serve, from my time as a Deputy District Attorney in Oregon to a law professor at the University of Hawai‘i to my current role as Deputy Director at the Hawai‘i Department of Human Services.

I often reflect on an early moment in my career as a prosecutor that stands out and guides my work to this day: A child involved in one of my cases told me that I was the first person who had ever really shown up for her. She deeply appreciated I was always there when needed, held people accountable, and saw the good in her and felt like I had given her a voice and sense of stability in her life. I think back to this moment often and it inspires me every time.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

The most important lesson I’ve learned as a woman in business is to recognize and embrace your value and to have faith in your authentic self. We’ve all seen it happen—women shying away from speaking up, not being recognized at big meetings, or not even being invited to the table where decisions are being made. We need to be confident in our capabilities and authenticity, find our own chairs, and pull them up to the table! The workplace (and world) is a better, more well rounded, and interesting place when women’s ideas are shared, our creativity is embraced, and our voices are heard.

What motivates you on the tough days?

Throughout my career, I’ve been honored to serve in roles that have a direct impact on people’s lives. I’ll never forget the personal stories shared with me, like the child in the story above, or the families in Maui that narrowly escaped the fires and whom DHS helped to find a new home, or the student who suffered a personal tragedy mid-semester but was able to complete the course with a little flexibility and support—and a much-needed hug. Their stories, and how my work can bring stability and make a positive difference in their lives, give me the energy and grit to push through those tough days.

What is one risk you took that really paid off?

A risk I took that has really paid off has been proposing bold, innovative new ideas to support the disaster recovery efforts from the 2023 Maui wildfires. The fires occurred less than a week into my new role at DHS, and as we monitored the situation it became clear that an enormous response and recovery effort was needed and, in such a unique and special place as Maui, the typical disaster response efforts weren’t going to be enough. We needed to do more in leveraging resources and partners in creative ways to meet the needs of the communities impacted, and fast.

With over 13,000 people displaced, housing was a crucial and immediate need we knew had to be addressed. At DHS, we worked closely with local, state, federal, and private partners to identify and help implement housing and shelter options quickly, but more help was needed, especially for survivors who didn’t qualify for federal assistance. I saw an opportunity to connect our state resources with Airbnb’s disaster response support in an innovative new way to help meet these needs and put together a plan that became Governor Green’s Rental Assistance Program (RAP).

The RAP launched in the fall of 2023 and the program helped nearly 1,000 wildfire survivors find immediate and longer-term housing options. I am so thankful to Governor Green for his support of this idea and for the tireless work of the entire DHS team and all of the partners and stakeholders involved for making RAP such a success. It was a risk to propose such a bold, innovative new approach to housing and disaster response, but one that made sense for our communities in creating stability for so many people in such a difficult, uncertain time.

What’s your morning routine or ritual that sets the tone for your day?

My days, and especially the mornings, are pretty busy. But I always make time for myself and my family, even if it’s just a few minutes before we all head off to work and school. My husband makes a great cup of coffee and I try to enjoy it quietly as I think about my priorities for the day, and then we discuss any upcoming events or needs for the week. I wake up my daughter and listen to her excitement about what she’s learning and what all her friends are up to. I make sure she’s ready to have a good day and send her out the door with a hug and kiss. This time with my family is so important to me and the best possible way to start my day. It reminds me why the work we do is so important, and it keeps me motivated and energized.

Describe your leadership style in three words.

Three words that really resonate with my leadership style are innovation, dedication, and integrity. I am constantly pushing myself to think creatively and to bring fresh ideas to the table, and am grateful to work with a team that values this kind of perspective.

Dedication speaks to the reason why you show up: your commitment to the end result and the difference you can make each day. I deeply value integrity and showing up as your authentic self in all situations as our actions are guided by our personal experiences and values. Everyone’s path is different and this diversity makes us more reflective of our communities and families—and ultimately makes us stronger together.

What inspired you to start your career in this field?

It started with a personal crisis. After more than a decade in HR helping Hawai‘i employers support their teams, everything shifted when I became a mom during the pandemic. One morning, my caregiver canceled at the last minute, and I realized there was no safety net here, no backup care, no system parents could rely on.

How are working parents supposed to stay employed when care is this fragile? That moment lit a fire. I saw the gap not just as a parent, but as a workforce strategist. Hawai‘i’s economy can’t thrive if we don’t support the people raising the next generation. So I built Hānai Nanny Agency and later Hānai Backup Care Solutions to create the kind of care system families and employers here have always needed, turning personal struggle into real, community-wide support.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

I’ve learned you can’t wait for permission to lead. You have to be clear about your vision, your value, and your boundaries. I used to soften my message, but when you’re building something bold, like reimagining childcare as core economic infrastructure through Hānai Nanny Agency and Hānai Backup Care Solutions, you have to trust both your gut and your data.

I’ve also learned you don’t have to do it alone. I’ve gained so much strength from women who lead with integrity and purpose. There is real power in community and collaboration over competition. That is how we move the system forward, together.

How do you define success for yourself?

I define success by whether the work creates real stability for Hawai‘i’s families. That’s the vision behind Hānai Nanny Agency and Hānai Backup Care Solutions. Building something that outlasts me and makes life more livable for the next generation. It’s not about headlines; it’s about impact. Did a parent keep their job because care showed up? Did a nanny feel respected because of how we support them? Did an employer rethink their approach because we offered a better model? To me, success is structural. It’s a system that values caregivers, keeps local talent here, and helps families truly thrive. If my son grows up in a Hawai‘i where parents don’t have to choose between their kids and their careers, then I’ll know I’ve done something meaningful.

What motivates you on the tough days?

On tough days, I’m motivated by a mix of heart and responsibility. I think about my son watching me build something from scratch and learning that when you see a problem in your community, you try to fix it. That keeps me grounded when things feel overwhelming. I also think about the version of myself who was a brand-new mom, exhausted and scrambling for care that didn’t exist. Remembering that feeling pushes me to make sure no parent in Hawai‘i has to shoulder that alone. And then there are the families and caregivers we support through Hānai. A text from a parent saying, “You saved us today,” or a nanny sharing that she finally feels valued, those moments cut through the noise. They remind me that every long night is part of building something that truly matters for our community.

What’s your vision for women in your industry 10 years from now?

In 10 years, I want women in the care economy to be recognized as the essential professionals they have always been, not an afterthought. This industry has been carried by women for generations, yet it remains one of the most undervalued parts of our economy. My vision is a future where caregivers are paid fairly, supported with real benefits, and acknowledged as a core part of our workforce system. I also want to see more women shaping this field, from founders building new models to policymakers driving change, to caregivers who feel empowered as experts in child development and family well-being.

Most importantly, I want women in Hawai‘i to know that starting a family doesn’t mean pausing their ambitions. When childcare is reliable and respected, women can lead without sacrificing stability at home. My vision is simple: a care industry where this work is finally valued as the work that makes all other work possible.

What would your younger self be most proud of you for today?

When I think about my younger self, I remember a time when life felt uncertain. Watching my family navigate big changes made me realize early on that I wanted a different kind of future. Even then, I had a quiet determination to work hard, get an education, and build stability on my own terms. Looking at my life now, I think she would be proud of how far that determination carried me. She would be proud that I pushed through the hard moments, put myself through school, and built a career rooted in purpose. She would be amazed that I had the courage to leave the stability of corporate life and start something of my own.

Most of all, she would be proud I’m using my voice and my work to make life better for other families, the kind of impact she always hoped for, even before she had the words for it.

What inspired you to start your career in this field?

I’ve always had a deep appreciation for Hawai‘i’s natural environment and a curiosity about how we could make better use of the resources already around us. When we started Bizia, we wanted to show that materials often seen as problems, like invasive Albizia, could actually become part of the solution. Bizia was built as a reminder to connect people to place, to the forest, and to the idea that solving Hawai‘i’s most challenging issues can also create beauty.

How do you define success for yourself?

To me, success is related to impact. When our work at Bizia benefits our community, restores forests, supports local jobs, and inspires others to think differently about consumption, that is true success. It’s not by scale, but by the quality of our impact—how well we care for the people and places that make this work possible.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

That you can lead with empathy and still be strong. For a long time, I thought professionalism meant keeping emotions out of it, but I’ve learned that my intuition and compassion are real business assets. Building a team, balancing family, and managing growth and growing pains all require a huge heart, and that’s something women naturally bring to the table.

Who is one woman (famous or local) you’d love to have dinner with and why?

I’d love to have dinner with Robynne Maii, Chef and Co-owner of Fête in Chinatown. I have a real appreciation for fine dining. Right after college, I had a short stint working in an office position at The French Laundry, and that experience gave me an eye for the level of detail and intention behind exceptional food. Robynne’s approach resonates deeply with me: She sources locally, supports Hawai‘i’s farmers, and creates

dishes that tell the story of our islands through the seasons. To me, Fête is doing more than cooking. They are building community, supporting the local food system, and redefining what it means to eat thoughtfully in Hawai‘i. I’d love to talk story with her about bridging agriculture, sustainability, and hospitality in a way that truly honors Hawai‘i.

What’s the most recent book, podcast, or show that inspired you?

The Acquired podcast episode on Howard Schultz and the founding of Starbucks really struck me recently. It was incredible to hear how difficult it was to start something that now feels so obvious. At the time, the idea of a coffee shop culture didn’t even exist, and the paper cup lid hadn’t been invented yet. Over 300 investors turned him down, and his own father-in-law told him to stop with this coffee hobby and get a real job.

That story felt so relatable with the skepticism we faced starting our first company, Albizia Project. What we’re building in Hawai‘i with locally sourced wood building material, regenerative surfboards, and community-rooted design also challenges old assumptions. It reminded me that many ideas which shape the future first sound unrealistic until persistence and purpose make them inevitable.

What inspired you to start your career in this field?

When we first founded Hub Coworking Hawai‘i, coworking was still a relatively new concept on the islands. I saw an opportunity to create more than just office space—I wanted to design a community where entrepreneurs, non-profits, creatives, and changemakers could come together and collaborate.Hawai‘i has such a rich culture of connection and ʻohana, and I wanted to translate that into a professional space that broke down silos and encouraged innovation. What inspired me most was the idea that by fostering collaboration, we could amplify impact not just for individual businesses, but for Hawai‘i’s entire economy and community.

What has been your proudest professional achievement so far?

One of my proudest achievements has been watching Hub grow into a place where real connections and transformations happen. Over the years, I’ve seen startups scale, non-profits expand their reach, and entrepreneurs who were working solo suddenly find support systems that helped them thrive. During the pandemic, when so many businesses were struggling, Hub became a lifeline—a space where people could safely work, adapt, and keep going. I’m also proud that we’ve been intentional about building an inclusive community. From sustainability initiatives to diversity in leadership, we’ve worked hard to ensure Hub reflects the values of Hawai‘i while also preparing our members for a global stage.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a woman in business?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that leadership doesn’t have to look one way. Early in my career, I thought I had to fit into a mold of what a “business leader” should be—more authoritative, less vulnerable. But I realized that my strength comes from leading with authenticity, empathy, and collaboration. Those qualities aren’t weaknesses; they’re powerful tools. As women in business, we often face the pressure to prove ourselves twice over. I’ve learned that owning your perspective, building strong networks, and supporting other women is not only empowering but also essential for long-term success.

What is one risk you took that really paid off?

Starting Hub was the biggest leap of faith I’ve ever taken. At the time, coworking wasn’t a proven model in Hawai‘i. We didn’t know if the community would embrace it, or if enough businesses would see the value. But I believed in the idea that people needed more than a desk—they needed connection, resources, and collaboration. That risk paid off in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Hub has become a cornerstone for entrepreneurs and organizations across industries, and the ripple effects are everywhere—new companies formed, partnerships launched, and jobs created. It showed me that bold risks, when rooted in purpose, can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

How do you balance work and personal life—or do you believe in balance at all?

I’ve never believed in a perfect 50/50 balance—it’s more of an ongoing dance between the two. When we started Hub, my son was seven, and I made a very conscious decision: I wasn’t going to sacrifice motherhood for business. Now that he’s 15, I can say that choice has shaped how I approach everything. I’ve been an active parent, volunteering in different roles at his school every year, and I’ve always prioritized being present for those moments.

Of course, it isn’t always easy, especially because my husband is also my business partner. We constantly have to remind ourselves to switch hats and be husband and wife, not just cofounders. And while I try not to bring work home, the reality of entrepreneurship is that it often spills over. What has helped is setting boundaries, giving each other grace, and embracing the season we’re in. For me, this season is about raising a teenager while also nurturing a business community—and I genuinely enjoy both. I don’t see it as balance so much as integration, with family and business both teaching me how to show up with intention.

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

I’m the founder of Aly Wee Consulting, a hotel revenue and asset management firm specializing in independent and boutique hotels. We partner with hotel owners and operators to maximize topline revenue, improve profitability, and enhance long-term asset value. Our hands-on approach bridges strategy and execution—whether it’s leading a financial turnaround, identifying new business opportunities, or uncovering overlooked revenue potential. Ultimately, we help hotels compete more effectively in today’s evolving travel landscape.

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

I spent several years working inside hotel management companies and saw firsthand how independent hotels—especially in Hawai‘i—were often overlooked in favor of bigger brands. I knew there was a better way to advocate for these unique properties. When I launched my consulting firm, it was with the goal of giving owners and operators access to high-level revenue and asset management support without the red tape. The freedom to be both strategic and nimble has been incredibly fulfilling.

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

Be curious and ask thoughtful questions. The hospitality industry is built on relationships, so listen more than you speak and take the time to understand how different departments operate. Don’t get caught up in titles. Focus instead on delivering results and building trust. And if you want to stand out, learn to think both analytically and creatively. The best revenue strategists are the ones who can blend data with intuition.

How do you define success for yourself right now?

For me, success is making a meaningful impact for my clients and delivering work I’m genuinely proud of. It’s work that drives results and creates lasting value. It is also about balance: growing my business while making space for family, community, and the things that keep me grounded. Just as important is using my skills and resources to give back, whether through mentorship, volunteer work, or supporting causes that make our community stronger.

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

For now, I want my legacy to be about sparking confidence in others. The kind that drives them to take risks, make bold moves, and trust that they have the support to succeed. I hope my work and example show that ambition and integrity can go hand in hand. A key part of that is mentoring the next generation of leaders, so they not only see what’s possible, but have the guidance and encouragement to make it happen for themselves.