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My Roots

A Life of Leadership, Service & Empowerment

“From grassroots beginnings to community champion— My journey is powered by purpose.”

My journey began with a lifelong commitment to public service as a student leader, where I found my voice early in student government at Aina Haina Elementary, Niu Valley Intermediate, and Kaiser High School. As a teenager, I passionately stood up for my peers, organized on their behalf, and witnessed how advocacy could spark real change. That enduring passion for people blossomed into a powerful calling.

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​During my early college years, I had the privilege of serving as the Student Body President at Kapiolani Community College. In this role, I became a fervent advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, tirelessly championing policies that uplift students across the University of Hawaii system. Collaborating with dedicated City Council members, I played a role in improving public transportation, ensuring students could more easily access education and opportunities. These transformative experiences ignited my commitment to making a positive impact and inspiring change in my community.

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I made the courageous decision to step away from college to discover my true passion and fully embrace my identity as an LGBTQ individual. This journey opened my eyes to the challenges faced by transgender people, and I found strength in a community that motivated me to take an active role in advocacy. Beginning my transition in 2002, I explored hormone therapy and the art of female impersonation. The pinnacle of my journey came when I was crowned Miss Gay Pride 2003, a powerful moment that taught me the importance of being unapologetically myself. It reinforced that I have every reason to be proud of who I am.

Inspired by a powerful realization, I became captivated by the art of female impersonation through stage performance. I had the privilege of performing alongside a legendary local female impersonation artist. I graced the stages of Venus Night Club, Hulas Bar & Lei Stand, Scarlet Honolulu, Rumors Night Club, Fusion Waikiki, and many other locations across the State, ultimately becoming a showgirl with the esteemed Paperdoll Revue Show from 2005 to 2017.

 

In addition to my performances, I was honored to serve as the Imperial Crown Princess for the 27th Reign of the Imperial Court of Hawai‘i from 2007 to 2008. During this time, I supported the organization of community fundraisers, amplified the voices of marginalized individuals, and dedicated myself to supporting local causes.

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My commitment to making a difference was further recognized when I was named Queen of Hawai‘i in 2008 and Queen of Queens in 2015, roles that solidified my mission as a unifier and cultural leader across diverse communities. Through my advocacy, serving on the Imperial Court of Hawaii's HIV/AIDS initiatives, leading as Board President of the Honolulu Pride Festival Foundation, and championing civil rights legislation with Equality Hawaii, I have strived to inspire positive change.

 

My journey exemplifies the transformative power of authenticity, community, and perseverance. Together, we can create a world where everyone’s true self is celebrated, valued, and empowered.

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Throughout my career journey, I have had the enriching experience of working with a diverse array of companies and roles, each contributing uniquely to my personal and professional growth. From serving as a Guest Service and Promotions Manager to taking on the responsibilities of a Development Contractor, I have learned the importance of adaptability and innovative thinking. My roles as a Tour Bus Operator, School Bus Operator, and City Bus Operator have instilled in me a deep appreciation for service, safety, and the vital role transportation plays in connecting communities. Additionally, my work as a Public Affairs professional and office manager has strengthened my skills in communication, leadership, and organizational management.

Each of these experiences has been a stepping stone, teaching me the core values of business integrity, operational excellence, and effective communication. They have inspired me to pursue continuous learning and to approach each new challenge with enthusiasm and resilience. These diverse experiences have prepared me to face future opportunities with confidence and an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.  

To this day, I continue to pursue my passion for public service as a former Public Affairs Officer for the Civil Air Patrol Hawaii Wing, the civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. In this role, I supported emergency response communications, trained cadets, and helped coordinate mission-critical information during crises. I have had the pleasure of supporting emergency events such as the 2021 Mauna Loa Volcano eruption on the Big Island, the 2022 missing medical air crash off the island of Maui, the 2023 Lahaina Wild Fires, and the 2025 Missing teens off the North Shore of Oahu providing support to local emergency agencies and working in partnership with county, state and federal agencies. 

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My service goes beyond just titles. I enjoy volunteering in areas like emergency preparedness, leading community cleanups, organizing cultural events, and mentoring new leaders. I have several certifications in emergency management and crisis communication. Additionally, I hold an Associate's degree in Business Management and a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. I'm also currently working towards my Master's in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing to sharpen my leadership abilities and gain deeper strategic and business insights.

As I seek to serve in a higher capacity as a candidate for Hawai‘i State House of Representatives, District 26, I carry the passion and perseverance of our community with me. The people are the fuel that drives my decades of experience, heartfelt dedication, and inclusive vision. Together, we believe that the government should listen to the people, act with purpose, and lead with integrity, inspiring hope and change from the ground up while working collaboratively to find positive long-term solutions.

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From the classroom to the Capitol, from the stage to the boardroom, I have never stopped serving my community. My journey is rooted in aloha, driven by justice, and inspired by the belief that together, we can build a Hawai‘i where everyone’s voice truly matters.

VISION

A Fresh Perspective for Inclusive Progress

"My goal is to be a bold, responsive voice for the people of Hawai‘i State House District 26—one that listens with compassion, leads with integrity, and delivers real results. I’m running to restore trust in government, protect the dignity of every resident, and fight for affordable housing, safe neighborhoods, and opportunities that uplift our keiki, kÅ«puna, and working families. Together, we will build a more just, inclusive, and resilient Hawai‘i—because our future starts with leadership that puts people first."

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