What’s your go-to song or playlist that gets you motivated for a busy day?

My daily go-to playlist is a mix of Kendrick Lamar, Chappell Roan, Dua Lipa and AC/DC, with some Bob Sinclair, Krishna Das and Snoop Dogg thrown in for good measure!

Growing up in Hawaiʻi, local music is ALWAYS on my list, so I blend in both classic and contemporary local artists. It’s the perfect soundtrack for whatever vibe and mood I’m in. These songs are perfect for singing along on car drives to school and weekends, getting my creative juices flowing at work or getting me pumped at the gym. They get me in the zone!

In a workplace that demands your utmost, what do you do for self-care?

For self-care, I combine a variety of activities that help me stay grounded and refreshed. My day usually starts with an early morning workout, which helps me feel centered and energized for whatever lies ahead. On weekends, I love spending time outdoors with my two daughters and our dachshund. Whether we are at the beach or hiking, these special moments allow me to reconnect with nature and recharge.

I also dedicate time each month to volunteer with different organizations in the community, which gives me a deep sense of purpose and strengthens my bonds with friends, while giving back to the community that has supported me. Another thing that I enjoy doing is visiting the Waimānalo public library, a place that has held a special place in my heart since childhood. There is something therapeutic about geeking out in the aisles and exploring books. And of course, a little retail therapy now and then never hurts! For me, it is all about finding and maintaining balance, and all these things help me feel at my best.

If you could relive your life again, what’s something you would change?

If I could relive my life again, I would have traveled more when I was younger. I’ve come to understand how exploring different cultures, meeting new people and visiting new places can truly shape who we are. At the time, I didnʻt fully appreciate how travel broadens your perspective in ways nothing else could and I also didnʻt have the financial means to make it happen. But with the knowledge I have now, I would have focused more on saving for more travel and adventures, rather than spending money on other things. Because of traveling, I’ve been fortunate to meet people near and far, and many of these connections have turned into lasting friendships that I continue to cherish today.

What’s one moment that you wish you could rewind and replay 100 times?

One moment I wish I could rewind and replay 100 times is the last year I spent with my dad. It was a time filled with so much emotion and wishing, “If only I had more time.” If I had the chance, I would relive those moments with him, fully savoring every second, spending more time together, appreciating the laughter and even the quiet time, having deeper conversations, and being more present in each moment. I would be unafraid and bolder to say everything I wanted to say, more than I already did, knowing it would be the last time. That year would have been filled with even more deep connection and openness. It is a memory I hold close, one that reminds me of the love we shared, and the importance of appreciating every moment with the ones we love.

What is your greatest accomplishment in life?

My greatest accomplishment in life is raising my two daughters as a single mom. It has not always been easy, yet everything we have faced together and as individuals, has only brought us closer together and strengthened the bond we share. Watching them grow into strong, compassionate and loving individuals fills my heart with pride. Every moment spent guiding them, being there for them and seeing them grow is a gift that I treasure. They are my greatest achievement, and our unit—the family that we built together—is something I am incredibly proud of.