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.
