My Job Is Constructing Lightweight Outrigger Canoes in Hawai‘i
George Wilson oversees manufacturing at the Kailua-based Kamanu Composites, where canoes are produced for the global paddling community.
Author: Aimee Wickler
My Job Is Leading Patient Simulations to Help Train UH Nursing Students
Alex Munro turned his theater background into a unique role guiding actors who perform as patients, including difficult conversations and emotions.
My Job Is Sharpening Hawai‘i’s Saws, Scissors and Knives
From his Kalihi workshop, Dexter Freitas has sharpened blades for cooks, print shops, furniture makers and others since 1988.
My Job Is Analyzing and Improving People’s Work Lives
From her Hawai‘i home, Amazon researcher Natalie Perez uses interviews, focus groups, surveys and more to understand employee experiences across the globe.
Polio Was This Agency’s First Crisis, Maui Wildfires Are the Latest
Founded in 1947, Imua Family Services is providing critical supplies for Maui families and healing playtime for traumatized keiki.
Honolulu Museum of Art Is Enjoying a Renaissance of Engagement
Attendance is up 70% from pre-pandemic years – and this time more locals than tourists are coming for the exhibitions and events.
My Job Is Teaching the Next Generation of Voyagers
Bonnie Kahape‘a-Tanner helped found the Kānehūnāmoku Voyaging Academy, which uses a double-hulled sailing canoe in its Hawaiian culture programs.
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Roy Sakuma Ukulele Studios Shares the Joy of Music with All Ages and Abilities
2025 SmallBiz Editor’s Choice Award winner: Roy and Kathy Sakuma operate four studios on O‘ahu, and would “never say no to any parent.”
Jams World Features Colorful Textiles Turned into Unique Clothing
2025 SmallBiz Editor’s Choice Award Hall of Fame: Pua and Heather Rochlen run the family business started in 1964, with six stores across three islands.
