If you could spend the day with a world leader, who would it be and why?

If I could spend the day with a world leader, it would be with Her Majesty Ngā Wai Hono i te Pō Paki, the newly appointed Māori Queen and eighth monarch of the Kīngitanga. As the second Māori queen in history, she carries an extraordinary legacy and kuleana to her people—one grounded in cultural identity, sovereignty, and unity. I deeply admire the Kīngitanga movement and how it has sustained and evolved over generations, providing a strong example of Indigenous self-determination. To walk beside her for a day would be an incredible opportunity to listen, learn, and gain a deeper understanding of how a modern Indigenous monarchy upholds traditional values while navigating contemporary political and social landscapes.

This kind of experience would directly inform my work at the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, where our mission is to better the conditions of Native Hawaiians and move closer to Ea—self-governance.

What inspires you or is most exciting about your job, business, and industry, and what are the biggest challenges?

I draw inspiration every day from my kūpuna (ancestors) and the legacy of service they passed down to me. My great-great-grandfather, William Kahai Opūnui, served in the Kingdom Guard for King Kalākaua—protecting our aliʻi, our government, and our beloved ʻāina. My great-great-grandmother, Rebecca Kauhai Likua (Opūnui), was a respected kahuna lapaʻau (traditional healer) and a court dancer for King Kalākaua, as well as a  master kumu hula in Lahaina, Maui. They both embodied the warrior spirit and servant’s heart that I carry with me. Their example of aloha ʻāina (love of the land and people) and courageous service to our lāhui (nation) gives me strength.

What were some important turning points in your career that helped you attain your current position?

There have been several turning points in my life that I now see as divine preparation for my role as Ka Pouhana of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. One of the most foundational was my time at Kamehameha Schools, where I had the privilege of serving as Director of the Extension Education Division. I was blessed to work directly with our lāhui—designing and implementing Hawaiian culture-based education, college and career prep, post-high scholarships, and stewarding ʻĀina Pauahi. Later, as an Executive Strategy Consultant in Strategy and Innovation, I deepened my understanding of systems-thinking, innovation, and policy design, all through a lens of equity and Native Hawaiian advancement.

Serving as the Coordinator for the Charles Reed Bishop Trust was another critical chapter. Working directly with a Board of Trustees taught me about the responsibilities of trust management. It gave me valuable insight into fiduciary duty and accountability—lessons that are deeply relevant now as I help steward the Native Hawaiian Trust Fund.

Another major turning point was my role as Budget Chief for the Hawaiʻi State Senate. It placed me in the heart of policymaking—navigating the complexities of state government, working with elected officials.

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

Each morning, as Iʻm getting ready for work, my praise and worship playlist helps to prepare and ground me for the day. My work is not just a job—it’s blessed work. I consider it a tremendous privilege to serve our lāhui, and I know I don’t do it alone. I carry the mana of my kūpuna and my lord and savior Jesus Christ. My go-to song, the one that starts the playlist, is “The Blessing” by Elevation Worship featuring Kari Jobe and Cody Carnes.

I feel a deep sense of calm and clarity. It reminds me that everything I need for the day ahead—wisdom, strength, compassion—is already being provided. That song has become like a morning prayer for me, not just over myself, but over my family, our staff, our Trustees, and our entire lāhui.

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

In a role that requires so much of my heart, time, and energy, I’ve learned that self-care is critical. I make it a priority to carve out intentional time each week to be with my ʻohana. Being surrounded by my ʻohana makes my heart happy and they fill my cup.

Every Saturday morning, I go on a walk with one of my best friends, who’s also a trusted mentor in my life. Those walks are a sacred time for me—we talk story, laugh, reflect on life and it reminds me of Godʻs love and wisdom. She pours into me personally, professionally, and spiritually, and I always come away feeling renewed and more centered.

At home, I create a space that brings me peace and joy. I love filling my house with fresh flowers and scented candles—it’s simple, but it lifts my spirit and creates an environment that feels warm and healing. I’ve also learned to listen to my body and give myself grace when I need rest.