40 Under 40 — A Pacific Business News Production

SPECIAL SECTION · WORLD PREMIERE! · JUNE 10, 2016

A PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS PRODUCTION

FEATURING BREAKOUT PERFORMANCES FROM HAWAII’S MOST TALENTED YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

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PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

A gateway to Waikı¯ kı k ı¯, the Hawai‘i Convention Center is ideally located in the heart of cosmopolitan Honolulu.

It’s a memorable setting for special meetings, events and conventions.

To learn more about the Hawai‘i Convention Center, visit hawaiiconvention.com or call (808) 943-3500.

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to our 40 under 40 SponSorS and congratulationS to thiS year’S caSt of 40!

gold SponSor

Silver SponSor

auto SponSor

awardS partner

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JUNE 10, 2016

And now a word from our gold sponsor

Argosy University, Hawaii, is thrilled to honor the diverse and accomplished 40 Under 40 2016 class for its outstanding achievements.

Our school commits to supporting events that foster excellence in our communities, as PBN’s 40 Under 40 event does in recognizing emerging leadership across our islands. As an institution, Argosy University also has a history of producing local leaders through its management and leadership degree programs at the bachelor, master, and doctoral levels.

To the honorees: Thank you for the contributions you have made, and always continue to strive for excellence as you grow and develop. In recognition of your accomplishments, we are delighted to announce that we will be awarding each of you a $10,000 scholarship toward a future degree of your choice at Argosy University.

The best leaders are lifelong students who never stop learning, whether in or out of the classroom. We are proud to sponsor this event, and play a role in educating and developing the next generation of Hawaii’s leaders.

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PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

Starring

About this section

COMPANIES Aloha United Way......................12 Bays Lung Rose & Holma...........21 Bikeshare Hawaii.......................29 Blue Planet Foundation.............24 Cades Schutte LLP.......................7 Comprendio..............................14 DTL..........................................17 Group 70 International.........11,15 Hale Makua Health Services.......28 Hawaii State Office of Environmental Quality Control...13 Hawaii Trust & Estate Counsel....26 Hawaii VA Loans.........................5 Hawaiian Paddle Sports.............19 Honolulu City Council................26 Honolulu Club...........................28 ike...........................................27 Inspired Financial Partners LLC..11 Kaia Consulting...........................6 Kaiser Permanente Hawaii.........22 Kuaaina Ulu Auamo.....................7 Lent Enterprises Digital.............20 Locations LLC.............................8 MVNP.......................................27 Nella Media Group......................9 New Media Productions LLC.......23 Oceanit....................................23 Polynesian Voyaging Society......15 Redmont Group........................25 Securitas Security Services USA Inc....................................18 Smart Yields.............................19 State of Hawaii.........................24 Sultan Ventures........................16 SystemMetrics..........................29 The Howard Hughes Corp..........17 Turtle Bay Resort......................10 University of Hawaii.............. 9, 13 Wet’n’Wild...............................21 Zak Noyle Photography.............25

This year we went back to old Hollywood. Our 40 Under 40 embraced their inner movie stars during a glam photo shoot, and told us what a movie about their career would be called and who would play them. We also quote their “reviews,” that is, what their nominators had to say about them.

Lights. Camera. Action!

Q The

answers to the movie about their careers

Q Insights

from their nominators

Credits

Kathleen Gallagher, Lorin Eleni Gill, Janis Magin, A. Kam Napier, James Prichard, Duane Shimogawa, Bios and Q&A Bethany Bickley, Art Direction and Design Tina Yuen, Photography Lucy Tuitupou, The List Read more online about the 40 Under 40 Class of 2016 at bizj.us/1mt3rk

SEE OUR WORK AT MVNP.COM

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM

CAST Amey, Gabe.................. 5 Armstrong, Jennifer...... 6 Asuncion, Brenda.......... 7 Ayabe, Lisa................... 7 Bigelow, Ian................. 8 Bock, Joe...................... 9 Burkett, Maxine............ 9 Canon, Rocky.............. 10 Char, Ryan.................. 11 Chong, Liane Kimura... 11 Gannon, Marc............. 12 Glenn, Scott............... 13 Gomes, Farrah-Marie... 13 Hookanao-Briel, Sean.. 14 Hsu, Stephanie........... 15 Ishii, Jenna................. 15 James, Meli................ 16 Johnstone, Doug......... 17 Kaaihue, Malia............ 17 Kelley, Wallace............ 18 Kimura, Vincent.......... 19 Lara, Timothy............. 19 Lent, Jason................. 20 Loos, Scott................. 21 Love, Sarah................ 21 Marilla, Rudy.............. 22 Martin, Tiare.............. 23 Michioka, Alicia.......... 23 Miyashiro, Melissa....... 24 Nacapuy, Todd............ 24 Noyle, Zakary............. 25 Okamura, Kyle............ 25 Ozawa, Trevor............ 26 Roth, John.................. 26 Sasaki, Matthew......... 27 Soliven, Vince............. 27 Sweeney, Ryan Mae..... 28 Tamori, Joyce............. 28 Trevino, Ben............... 29 Yano, Marcus.............. 29

On behalf of our advertising and PR clients and our MVNP ohana, we’d like to congratulate our fearless Executive Creative Director, Vince Soliven, and all the outstanding leaders in PBN’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2016.

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Lisa, our team is constantly inspired by your creativity, leadership, and commitment.

CONGRATULATIONS

to our very own, Lisa D. Ayabe.

HONOLULU

KONA

WA I M E A

K AHULUI

LIHUE

808.521.9200

Thank you for your dedication to our community.

And thank you to all of this year’s 40 Under 40 recipients for making Hawai‘i an even better place to live, work, play, and learn.

C ADES.COM

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 5

JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

GABE AMEY, 36

Founder and Branch Manager, Hawaii VA Loans Gabe Amey, founder and branch manager for Hawaii VA, started out as a residential loan officer, where he realized the veteran loan program was hard to access for veterans, like his father. In December 2007, Amey created HawaiiVALoans.com, a mortgage company that focuses on providing resources to Hawaii’s veteran population. Amey said in the beginning, he made mistakes. ¶ “You make mistakes, but these mistakes help you sharpen you judgement for the future,” he said. “Slowly over time you build confidence, you find your voice and you become more authentic. When you can be authentic, that’s when you can really build a team because people gravitate towards that authenticity.” ¶ Since the successful growth of HawaiiVALoans, Amey has gone on to create Hawaii VA Foundation, a nonprofit branch of Hawaii VA Loans that provides financial assistance to military-based charities in Hawaii. His dedication to physical exercise led him to found the Hawaii VA Games, a yearly fitness competition that raises money to support families of deployed service members. – Kathleen Gallagher One thing people don’t know about me is ... I was inducted into my college Hall of Fame.

Something cool that hopefully my grandkids can be proud of.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... a different approach to how we educate our children. Public and private school systems can only do so much.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... building my business from just me in 2007, to roughly 20 people in 2016.

The first thing I do in the morning is … sweat. Swim, lift, run, yoga. Something that gets my heart rate going and flushes out my system.

Feature film

‘Nobody Really Cares’

The title sounds a bit dreary, but let me first give you a little more context. Let’s just say it’s about a guy who goes through life too worried about what other people think. Because of this, he plays it safe. He doesn’t venture out of his comfort zone. He doesn’t get criticized, but he also goes unnoticed. One day he realizes that people are so busy with their own lives that they really don’t care about the little mishaps going on in his life. So he takes a chance and puts himself out there more.

He lets himself be vulnerable. He gets out of his comfort zone.

Reviews say

“Gabe is a natural leader.

He possess the qualities that create positive results for his organization, their clients and Hawaii business as a whole.”

WINSTON WELBORN,

Owner, Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers

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PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

Presenting

JENNIFER ARMSTRONG, 37 Owner, Kaia Consulting

Congratulations!

Stephanie Hsu and Ryan Char and all the 40 Under 40 Nominees

Jennifer Armstrong, an advocate for homeless families with children and an entrepreneur who founded Kaia Consulting, set out to balance a happy family life with a successful career and community involvement.

She appears to have achieved her goal. ¶ Armstrong is board president of Family Promise of Hawaii, whose mission is to aid homeless families with children. She “seeks a deeper understanding of our mission and values, and how she fits into this bigger picture of ending family homelessness,” Mary Saunders, executive director of Family Promise of Hawaii, wrote in a letter supporting Armstrong’s nomination. ¶ After graduating from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon, Armstrong moved to Los Angeles, where she interned for two publicists and became interested in public relations. ¶ She eventually returned home to Honolulu and enrolled at Hawaii Pacific University, where she received a master’s degree in communication. ¶ Paul Dyson, who hired Armstrong eight years ago as a marketing and promotions manager at the Battleship Missouri Memorial, called her a wonderful, goal-oriented employee who was always wanting to take on more responsibility. After she left, he continued following her career. She started her Honolulu-based communications and public relations consulting firm four years ago. — James Prichard One thing people don’t know about me is ... I am a closet poet.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... seeing the rewards of operating my own business positively impact my family

and our quality of life.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... paid family leave for all working moms and dads.

The first thing I do in the morning is ... smile. It sets the tone.

Feature film ‘Cold Toast’

A dramedy starring Jennifer Lopez as a work-from-home momtreprenuer who, despite her many attempts to stay on top of her game, can still be humbled by eating cold toast leftovers from her kids. And, like J-Lo, I can still break it down on the dance floor if need be :)

Reviews say

“She epitomizes a young, local-grown woman who has worked very hard for her successes and has not forgotten to give back to the community which helped shape who she is today.”

MARY SAUNDERS, Executive Director, Family Promise of Hawaii

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JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

Feature film

BRENDA ASUNCION, 29

‘Fellowship of the Fishponds’

A comedy starring Little Miss Sunshine (as her character).

Loko Ia Coordinator, Kuaaina Ulu Auamo

Reviews say

If someone could use only one word to describe Brenda Asuncion, that word might be “busy.” ¶ Asuncion is the loko ia, or fishpond, coordinator at Kuaaina Ulu Auamo, or KUA, a Kaneohe-based initiative for protecting, restoring and caring for Hawaii. Overseeing fishponds requires someone who understands not only aquaculture, education and historic preservation but also hospitality and community development. ¶ Her job requires her to regularly travel throughout the Hawaiian Islands, take part in conference calls and meetings, handle her emails — ­ all while working to build relationships, trust and inspiration among diverse groups of people along a network of almost 40 traditional Hawaiian fishpond restoration projects. ¶ Hiring an energetic visionary like Asuncion was akin to employing three new people. The position of fishpond coordinator did not exist at the organization before Asuncion accepted the job, and she may be the first statewide coordinator of Hawaii’s fishponds. ¶ Asuncion’s manager describers her as a doer as well as a listener, someone whom others in the office frequently ask for advice. — James Prichard One thing people don’t know about me is ... I love collecting little spoons.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... siesta time, fresh fish from loko ia and food growing on golf courses.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... hearing kupuna say that they feel hopeful for the future of loko ia, and that we should keep doing what we’re doing.

The first thing I do in the morning is ... I think about how I should really go for a run, then I make coffee and have breakfast.

Feature film

‘Kalalau Adventures’

Starring Lisa Ling. Hiking to Kalalau Valley is both mentally and physical challenging. There are ups and downs along the way and you will want to turn back more than once. But, through the encouragement and support of family and friends, you make it to the breathtaking Kalalau Valley and you’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Reviews say

“As the chair of the fund development committee, Lisa is committed to engaging new sponsors and funding resources so that MCBL is able to continue to offer no-cost and low-cost programs accessible to anyone looking to develop personally and professionally.”

DENISE ESPOSITO,

Director, Patsy T. Mink Center for Business & Leadership

“Beyond connecting people and opportunities, Brenda works to find and develop resources for the hui. She also continues to educate herself and expand her situational awareness of factors that affect the network she serves.”

KEVIN K.J. CHANG,

Executive Director, KUA

Presenting

LISA AYABE, 34 Partner, Cades Schutte LLP

Lisa Ayabe was admitted into the partnership role at Honolulu’s largest law firm in her first year of eligibility, an achievement that speaks volumes about her talents and abilities in the legal field.

Ayabe’s clients include large landowners, investors and individuals looking to navigate issues that arise under Hawaii’s unique real estate laws. She has served as counsel on several major real estate transactions, including the acquisition and redevelopment of a 326,700-square-foot shopping center on Kauai and the first and second phases of an affordable rental housing project in East Kapolei. ¶ As a younger associate, Ayabe became Cades Schutte’s primary counsel for a major local company with more than 70 stores in Hawaii and abroad. ¶ She also is very active in the community with such organizations as NAIOP Hawaii, where she is a current member of its developing leaders steering committee.

In that role, Ayabe has co-chaired two networking events aimed at increasing membership. — Duane Shimogawa One thing people don’t know about me is ... I’m left-handed, but I was taught at an early age to play tennis with my right hand.

Now, I play all sports with my right hand.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... making partner at Cades Schutte.

It is the highest endorsement that the partnership can bestow on an attorney.

If I ran Hawaii, I would ... tackle some of the most difficult challenges facing Hawaii today, such as homelessness and affordable housing.

The first thing I do in the morning is ... on the days I’m able to get out of bed by 5 a.m., I check my email, kiss my husband on his forehead, and head off to my yoga class. On the other days, I check my email, tell my husband I love him, and head to the office.

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Presenting

Feature film

IAN BIGELOW, 32

‘The Accidental Boss’

A comedy, adventure and drama starring John Cusack

Vice President of Property Management, Locations LLC

Reviews say

It hasn’t taken long for Ian Bigelow to establish himself as a leader in Oahu’s real estate industry. ¶ Bigelow, who joined Locations in Honolulu in 2012 and is a vice president, has successfully led the property management division of Hawaii’s largest locally owned real estate firm. His forward-thinking approach and ability to manage multiple functions of the business have enabled him to expand his team — doubling the size of the division in just three years. ¶ Before landing at Locations, Bigelow launched his own property management company at age 24. In less than four years, it became one of the top 10 management companies on Oahu. His firm attracted the attention of some of the state’s most prestigious real estate companies and clients. In addition, he has overseen several investment holding companies. ¶ One of Bigelow’s biggest accomplishments since taking charge of Locations’ property management division was spearheading a complete overhaul of the division’s software system. — James Prichard One thing people don’t know about me is ... I’m a farmer at heart. I’m the only one in my entire community that owns chickens, and am currently growing mint, basil, parsley, kale, Swiss chard, sweet potatoes, bananas, papayas, oranges, tangerines, and pomelos.

work and personal life.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... finding a balance between my

The first thing I do in the morning is ... hug and kiss my daughter.

“Since founding Locations more than 47 years ago, I have met a number of incredibly talented individuals who were driven to succeed in real estate, yet few have demonstrated the same level of dedication and passion as Mr. Ian Bigelow.”

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... more collaboration between the government and private sector in addressing our homeless epidemic and the lack of affordable rental housing.

BILL CHEE,

Founder, President and CEO, Locations LLC

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Liane Kimura Chong Owner

765 Amana Street, Suite 202 | Honolulu, HI 96814 808-947-3574 | liane@inspiredfinancialpartners.com

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 9

JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

Feature film

JOE BOCK, 36

‘Under the Hawaiian Sun’

Chief Operating Officer and Partner, Nella Media Group

A romantic comedy. I’m played by Freddie Prinze Jr.

Reviews say

Joe Bock and his partners at Nella Media Group have a modest goal — to take this local visitor industry media company global. And they’re on their way, having grown from a five-person shop when he joined four years ago to 15 people. “A lot of our publications are partnership publications with hotels and airlines, and we really like that aspect of it,” said Bock. “We’ve built great relationships with our partners, and we’d like to continue doing that outside of Hawaii.” ¶ Originally from Fort Worth, Texas, Bock came to Hawaii as an in-house attorney with Mesa Air Group, out of Phoenix, when it introduced the go! brand to Hawaii. He wasn’t handling the legal side: He was the airline’s chief marketing officer, since he could write and was already doing the company’s corporate communications. From go! he went to Castle Resorts and Hotels, becoming its chief marketing officer. In a way, his position with Nella is a return to his journalism interest, but he sees himself in his third career now, as his attention is on operations. ¶ Bock’s focus is on growing the company and smoothing operations as more staff are added. ¶ Bock is on the boards of Sales & Marketing Executives Honolulu and the Hawaii Publishers Association. — A. Kam Napier One thing people don’t know about me is ... I’m a bucket list kind of guy. I want to try everything, but often just once.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... having three different “careers” and surviving at each.

“Joe’s company, NMG, has the unique ability and responsibility to share Hawaii with the world ... he is instrumental in expanding its business opportunities [and] also in this capacity to more effectively tell our story to new and younger audiences.”

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ...

Chipotle. Oh, and maybe a subway system.

The first thing I do in the morning is … hope that it’s at least 5 a.m., so I can get up without feeling like a crazy person. Then I look at my phone.

DANIEL CHUN,

Regional Manager, Sales & Community Marketing - Hawaii, Alaska Airlines

Presenting

Feature film ‘The Evolution’

An action film starring Lupita Nyongo

Reviews say “Maxine has accomplished so much — as a lawyer, professor, scholar, climate change advocate and community leader — and all before the age of 40.”

CONSTANCE LAU,

President and CEO, Hawaiian Electric Industries

MAXINE BURKETT, 39 Professor, University of Hawaii William S. Richardson School of Law Inaugural Director, Center for Island Climate Adaptation and Policy

Maxine Burkett has a knack for explaining complex climate issues to academics, business and government policy stakeholders, which has made her an invaluable resource to institutions not only in the Islands but across the globe. Burkett is a leader in the state’s efforts to address and adapt to climate change, using her legal background to put ideas into comprehensive action. ¶ Burkett, a native of Jamaica and mother of two, launched the University of Hawaii’s Center for Island Climate Adaptation and Policy, which put the state in a national spotlight and attracted funding from institutions such as the Kresge Foundation. ¶ Burkett helped craft a question that voters will see on this year’s ballot — whether or not to establish an Office of Climate Change and Sustainability. ¶ The former Omidyar Fellow has published articles on climate-induced migration in scholarly and legal journals.

— Lorin Eleni Gill One thing people don’t know about me is ... I’m a native of Jamaica.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... when my alma mater, Williams College, awarded me the Bicentennial Medal for my work helping small island states wrestle with climate change.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... a Hawaii that absorbs more carbon emissions via sustainable agriculture, biochar, and forest restoration than we produce through electricity and transportation every year.

The first thing I do in the morning is ... 15 minutes of meditation and then fix lunches for the kids.

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Presenting

ROCKY CANON, 36 Experiential Manager, Turtle Bay Resort

Not only has Rockwell “Rocky” Canon increased revenue at Turtle Bay Resort by curating memorable adventures for the North Shore resort’s guests, he’s also kept his lifeguard skills sharp. ¶ On one of his days off, Canon “put his own life at risk in exceptionally high surf and strong current, paddled out and pulled a weighted and exhausted swimmer onto his board, and paddled to shore saving his life,” Turtle Bay Vice President & General Manager Danna Holck said. “Rocky has changed the lives of so many visitors to Hawaii and Turtle Bay.” ¶ Whether it’s helping a young boy overcome a fear of the ocean or implementing innovative ideas, Canon brings “passion, commitment, and drive” and has transformed the resort’s business, Holck said. ¶ The voice behind the Vans Triple Crown surfing competition and many premiere surfing events is also a dog lover who has brought a canine friend to work to engage with younger hotel guests on ocean outings.

- Lorin Eleni Gill One thing people don’t know about me is … I am truly addicted to talk radio. I love it. I’d rather learn something than listen to the same old song.

associate with Hawaii Realty Professionals, and being one of Hawaii’s most dynamic MCs, hosting surf events, weddings, and fundraisers of all kinds.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is … I have been able to multi-grow and multimanage three successful careers which include creating new experiences as the experiential manager at Turtle Bay Resort, working as an active Realtor-

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see … more dog parks.

The first thing I do in the morning is … wake up to see my two girls, Sammy, my wife, and Uluwehi, my daughter, then check the surf report.

University of Hawai‘i Congratulates

Farrah-Marie Gomes Interim Associate Vice President for Student Affairs, UH System

Feature film

‘A Lovely, Smart Hawaiian Bradda Who’s Funny and Rips’ This would definitely be a comedy, romance, drama, and action! In the lead role to play me would be Ralph Macchio.

Reviews say “Rocky is the example of how someone with passion, commitment, compassion and drive can transform a department to a successful business.”

DANNA HOLCK,

Vice President and General Manager, Turtle Bay Resort

Congratulations to Pacific Business News 2016 40 Under 40 Honoree:

Wallace Kelley

Branch Manager, Securitas Security Services

Pacific Business News 40 Under 40 Class of 2016

Recognized for her hard work and dedication to student success for the UH System and as UH Hilo Interim Dean of the College of Continuing Education and Community Service, and Director of the UH Hilo North Hawai‘i Education and Research Center.

• Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies, University of Nebraska-Lincoln • Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, Chaminade University of Honolulu • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, UH Hilo • Diploma, Kamehameha Schools

www.securitasjobs.com

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 11

JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

Feature film

RYAN CHAR, 31

‘Go with the Flow’

A comedy starring Jimmy Fallon. Not that my career has been a funny one, just because I hope to be as friendly and encouraging as possible to the people I meet. A good comedy always seems to have humor coming out of left field or characters thrown into odd situations. Sometimes, in engineering, you deal with the very weird projects and situations, and even people. You just have to laugh sometimes.

Associate, Project Manager, Group 70 International

Civil engineer Ryan Char likes to get an early start on things. He had his first internship in his field as a sophomore — in high school.

Then it was off to the University of Southern California for bachelor and master’s degrees in civil engineering and a five-year stint with KPFF Consulting Engineers in Los Angeles before returning home.

Back in Hawaii, he was one of the founding hires of a civil engineering division Group 70 had launched to be able to offer services to clients on all aspects of their projects. ¶ He quickly established himself as a skilled project manager, so much so that when he was promoted to associate in 2014, he was the youngest person to hold that title in Group 70’s history. One of Char’s favorite projects for Group 70 has been the recently completed Haleiwa Store Lots for Kamehameha Schools, where unseen details protect both the project and the environment. ¶ Char started early on community service, as well.

He is now an executive on the board of directors of Rotary Club of Honolulu Sunrise. — A. Kam Napier One thing people don’t know about me is ... I was part of an awardwinning barbershop quartet.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... having the opportunity to provide civil engineering design and consulting services on the new Broad Museum in Downtown Los Angeles, right across the street from the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Feature film

‘The Pursuit of Happiness’ A drama starring Angelina Jolie about the trials and tribulations of succeeding in the world of financial advising

Reviews say

“To understand the magnitude of how absolutely amazing she is, you must also know the personal side. Her husband works late hours, she started her own business from the ground up, raises her two children (one of whom is a specialneeds son), and takes care of her ailing mother. But despite these challenges she still finds time to give back to her community.”

KERRY WHEELER,

Alumni and Advancement Events Coordinator, Mid-Pacific Institute

Reviews say

“Ryan is humble about his contributions to Honolulu Sunrise Rotary, yet his commitment to the nonprofit sector and community service are clear. His work his been above and beyond the expectations of a new member.”

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... an emphasis on affordable housing in the urban core. Improved and activated spaces along our waterfronts for residents and tourists. Wider sidewalks and bike lanes.

The first thing I do in the morning is ... read CNN.com and FoxNews.com – I like to get both sides of a story.

ERIC KALER,

Past President, Rotary Club of Honolulu Sunrise

Presenting

LIANE KIMURA CHONG, 39

Founder, Inspired Financial Partners LLC Liane Kimura Chong is a self-employed business owner, mother of two — including a child with special needs — and a caregiver for her mother. But none of this stops Chong from working hard and striving for more, including setting a goal of starting a nonprofit organization to help other families with special-needs children.

In 2011, she decided to start her own independent office and in 2013 she stared Financial Partners LLC to further her career. The vision for her company came from her own family story. ¶ Working with large businesses, Chong helps educate and assist companies to develop various employee benefits. Chong helps clients identify their future goals and develops plans to achieve them. Her personal experience has given her valuable insight when helping clients and relating to clients of all ages.

— Kathleen Gallagher One thing people don’t know about me is ... I love to dance. I take a hip-hop exercise class called Street Jamz Werkout three times a week to relieve stress.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... starting my company.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... more programs to help families with children that have special needs.

The programs would guide and

connect a family with the right resources necessary to navigate through the unknowns they will face.

The first thing I do in the morning is … Read my “inspirational messages” and say a prayer. Then I prepare my children’s breakfast and my son’s lunch, which is carefully measured and prepped since he cannot chew or swallow properly.

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PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

Presenting

Feature film

MARC GANNON, 35

‘Sector Three’

Vice President of Community Impact, Aloha United Way

Who plays me? Me, of course! It would definitely be a blend of comedy and action.

Homelessness is one of the most complex issues Hawaii faces, but Marc Gannon has already made a mark. ¶ This year, Gannon and his team at AUW will be responsible for distributing $5 million to help 1,300 families find homes or avoid homelessness.

The 35-year-old Partners in Care chairman has worked in the nonprofit sector for about 16 years, focusing on health and human services. ¶ During his former role as chief of community health services at Waikiki Health Center, he assisted the U.S. Housing and Urban Development and Partners in Care in developing standard indicators to measure community health program effectiveness.

Those measures remain key to homeless outreach in the Islands. ¶ During the five years before Gannon joined AUW, the nonprofit had about $100,000 to $200,000 in grant revenue each year, but in 2015, AUW submitted proposals exceeding $8.5 million. ¶ He’s also had an eye for guiding nonprofits to be effective, said Cindy Adams, president and CEO of AUW. ¶ “In his first year with Aloha United Way, Marc introduced a six-part training series on leadership development, a much needed course on performance measurement and reporting of outcomes, and a brown-bag lunch series enabling similarly situated agencies to gather and share information,” said Adams in a letter of support. — Lorin Eleni Gill One thing people don’t know about me is ... I ran the 40th Honolulu Marathon.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... finding a career where I excel and am deeply passionate. Every day, I am

Reviews say

“His counsel and ability to facilitate relationships with government partners and support agencies has helped to directly and indirectly make progress on ending homelessness in Hawaii.”

given the opportunity to improve our community.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see … effective cross-sector coordination.

SCOTT MORISHIGE,

The first thing I do in the morning is … hit snooze.

Governor’s Coordinator on Homelessness

A healthier, happier community owes you its gratitude.

You’re a pillar of our healthy community. And, thanks to you, our community is thriving more and more every day.

We’re proud of you, Rudy! Congratulations to you and your fellow 40 under 40 honorees.

Rudy R. Marilla, MBA, MPH Vice President, Clinical Operations, Contracting, Community Benefit and Relations

kp.org/hawaii

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 13

JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

Feature film

SCOTT GLENN, 38

‘Speak Softly’

A Coen Brothers-style dramedy starring James Franco

Director, Hawaii State Office of Environmental Quality Control

Reviews say

Scott Glenn is one of the youngest directors to serve under Hawaii Gov. David Ige. ¶ Glenn, who was appointed by the governor in November to the key position of leading the OEQC, is the man behind the agency advising the environmental review of development projects in both the private and the public sectors. ¶ Glenn, who previously worked for Cardno, is also one of the first OEQC directors to have experience with environmental review in a variety of capacities, including as a consultant, reviewer, advocate and volunteer decision-maker. ¶ At Cardno, he was responsible for winning more than $1.2 million in new revenue for the Hawaii office and for bringing in new clients, such as Grace Pacific, Kamehameha Schools and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. ¶ He also played a key role on the environmental impact statement for the Department of Defense’s more than $10 million joint military training facility in the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands.

“Scott is a collaborative problem solver who believes that a healthy environment and a healthy economy go hand in hand. The governor appointed Scott because of his knowledge, experience and leadership and mostly his untapped potential to help change the trajectory of the Hawaiian Islands.”

— Duane Shimogawa One thing people don’t know about me is ... I studied ancient Greek for three years. I’ve read Plato and the Gospel of John in their original Greek.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... being appointed director of the Office of Environmental Quality Control, which administers the environmental impact statement process. I’m excited to help the governor with implementing his vision. We’re

Feature film ‘Grassroots’

With connections to Hawaii and what she stands for, it seems plausible that Oprah Winfrey would be a good fit for playing me. Hands down, the movie would be a drama. There just aren’t words to describe some of the situations that I have to deal with on some days.

Friends have heard me say, “Even if I tried, I couldn’t make some of this stuff up.”

Reviews say

“From her early days with the university she has been actively involved and creative in promoting change, not for the sake of change, but with a vision to make things better, the university stronger, and the community stronger.”

ALTON OKINAKA,

Associate Professor of Sociology, UH-Hilo

focused on helping agencies, applicants, and the public participate in this process in a meaningful and efficient way. I’m thankful to be able to give back to Hawaii.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... more sidewalk cafes and walkable neighborhoods.

MIKE MCCARTNEY,

The first thing I do in the morning is … my dog and I enjoy a morning walk as I mentally prepare for the day.

Chief of Staff, Hawaii Governor’s Office

Presenting

FARRAH-MARIE GOMES, 39

Interim Associate Vice President for Student Affairs, University of Hawaii

Farrah-Marie Gomes believes learning should have no bounds.

The founding director of the North Hawaii Education and Research Center has dedicated the past decade to expanding higher education and continuing education programs for residents on the Big Island.

NHERC, which has eliminated the barrier of distance to the Hilo campus, cutting travel time and expenses, has served more than 600 students in taking classes for credit, and 1,500 more for noncredit events and activities. ¶ Gomes has served as interim dean for the College of Continuing Education and Community Service for five years, and expanded education opportunities for not only North Hawaii residents, but also West Hawaii and Puna community members as well. ¶ In April, she was named interim system Associate Vice President for Student Affairs. — Lorin Eleni Gill One thing people don’t know about me is … I am an extroverted introvert. I never knew such a thing existed.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far … is obtaining my Ph.D. If I ran Hawaii … you’d see more partnerships comprised of individuals and organizations from various walks of life working

together to accomplish similar goals.

The first thing I do in the morning ... is turn off my alarms. I sometimes set three alarms ... each is located in a different room so I’m required to physically get out of bedroom and on with the day.

I am known for sleeping through fire alarms, earthquakes, and even mid-air emergencies that required the turning around of an airplane.

14 | 2016 40 UNDER 40

PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

Presenting

SEAN HOOKANO-BRIEL, 33 CEO and Co-founder, Comprendio

2016

JOIN US

at our Fundraising Gala as we announce this year’s winners SATURDAY

July 30 2016

– POMAIKA‘I BALLROOMS

Dole Cannery

5pm TO 10pm

Enjoy a fun evening of live entertainment and auction Please consider a corporate sponsorship or auction donation. All proceeds go toward grants, prizes, and multi-year agricultural scholarships.

www.pauahi.org/mahiaimatchup

Sean Hookano-Briel built Comprendio, a startup that’s poised to launch version 1.0 of its product this summer, from a pencil-and-paper idea. ¶ The education-technology platform, which has participated in the Blue Startups and XLR8UH accelerator programs, uses cognitive mapping to help teachers structure their content and give them analyzed feedback on their students’ progress. ¶ Hookano-Briel began his career in education in 2006 when he joined the national service group Teach for America. He moved to Hawaii with the program and became a full-time math teacher at Waipahu High School where he worked for six years, until 2012. A year before he left Waipahu High School, Hookano-Briel began working with Stacy Nishina, former deputy executive director of the Hawaii State Teachers Association. Together they built a professional development program for teachers called DCT: Developing Critical Thinkers, using Comprendio’s mapping program. — Kathleen Gallagher One thing people don’t know about me is ... I grew up in Europe (the Netherlands and Norway for half my childhood).

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... reimagining what learning can look like with my Waipahu High students.

The journey with each of them as we learned how to learn and moved our historical pass rate from 12 percent to 71 percent will always be front and center.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... public high school students spending high school rotating through partnered companies and industries, getting first-hand experience and a better sense of what life is beyond the classroom.

The first thing I do in the morning is ... always check the surf, dive and fishing reports. The ocean is the best teacher, therapist, friend and sparring partner in the world.

Feature film

‘An Unlikely Connection’

Starring a young Christopher Walken

PAUAHI FOUNDATION SPONSORED IN PART BY

MEDIA SPONSOR

MENTORSHIP SPONSOR

With the community, Kamehameha Schools and the Pauahi Foundation are working toward a sustainable Hawai‘i by supporting the local farm industry and increasing food production for all.

Reviews say

“His passion fueled an open mind that critically listened, identified and integrated other people’s lessons learned efficiently and effectively. This critical nuance of passion is why I have no doubt that Sean will attain success before failure.”

MELIALANI JAMES,

President, Hawaii Venture Capital Association

1140-2016 Mahi‘ai Match-Up Ad

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 15

JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

STEPHANIE HSU, 34

Feature film

Associate, Group 70 International

‘Revenge of the Nerds (in Paradise)’

Architect Stephanie Hsu has been changing things within Group 70, and changing hearts and minds in clients. As project manager for a renovation of the Hawaii Prince Hotel, Hsu turned to a group of professionals she helped to organize within Group 70, dubbed “The Hive,” to convince the client that the $27 million room refresh wasn’t thinking big enough. ¶ On the strength of a presentation for the lobby and pool deck, imbued with a fresh branding approach, Group 70 not only got the job as the project designers, it convinced the client to nearly double its budget to $55 million. ¶ In addition to hospitality clients, Hsu also works on medical facilities for such clients as The Queen’s Medical Center, St. Francis and Hawaii Pacific Health. ¶ Born and raised in Florida, Hsu holds bachelor and masters degrees in architecture from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Though her father was an architect, she joked that her parents tried to warn her against following suit. But she has found in architecture the perfect blend of lifetime interests in art, drawing and painting plus math and science. – A. Kam Napier One thing people don’t know about me is ... there was a time in my youth when our family went to Disney World almost every weekend with Florida resident season passes.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... orchestrating multiple parties and teams to create and implement a new brand and (soon-to-be) renovated Hawaii Prince Hotel in Waikiki, repositioning the hotel in

Feature film

‘Voyage of a Lifetime’

It would be a romantic comedy starring Julia Roberts (in her early years). She is sailing around the world looking for beautiful surf and learning about different cultures.

Reviews say

“Jenna is an outstanding example of this group of passionate and dedicated students of the traditional art of wayfinding who represent the next generation on Hokulea’s, as well as Hawaii’s, future.”

NAINOA THOMPSON,

President, Polynesian Voyaging Society

Equal parts action, drama and comedy starring Maya Rudolph.

Reviews say

“Stephanie’s spirit has intoxicated Group 70 and the projects that she touches in every amazing way.

We are trying old things in new ways, taking risks, and dreaming far bigger than we ever have.”

the marketplace and contributing to the revitalization of the Ala Moana gateway to Waikiki.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... a diverse selection of housing typologies and continued focus on creating walkable mixed-use developments and neighborhoods.

MA RY KIM,

Principal, Group 70 International

The first thing I do in the morning is ... listen to NPR and dive into work emails from bed.

Presenting

JENNA ISHII, 31

Education Coordinator and Executive Assistant, Polynesian Voyaging Society Imagine scheduling meetings and activities with some of the world’s most important dignitaries, but with a schedule that is 100 percent likely to change. That’s what the Polynesian Voyaging Society’s’ Jenna Ishii does regularly as she helps plan one of the most complex sailing voyages in history. As PVS President Nainoa Thompson’s right-hand woman, Ishii organizes the logistics for each stop of the Hokulea’s worldwide journey. ¶ Ishii has been part of the plans for the unprecedented voyage since the project’s inception in 2008 and is also a crew member. ¶ Before she began with PVS, Ishii spearheaded “Grow Hawaii,” a pilot program that connected school cafeterias with local farms. ¶ Ishii was also involved with the creation of the Polynesian Voyaging Society’s education committee, and “shepherds the growth and vision” of the Malama Honua Charter School. ¶ Ishii has also been a founding member of the Hawaii Farm to School and School Garden Hui, a founding member of the Oahu Farm to School Network, as well as a volunteer for the Kai Makana Foundation, Protect Kahoolawe Ohana, KANU Hawaii, and the Oahu chapter of the Oahu Surfrider Foundation.

— Lorin Eleni Gill One thing people don’t know about me is ... I am a twin!

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... working with an amazing team to safely voyage Hokulea around the world.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... everyone in Hawaii would be 100 percent committed to taking care of our ocean, from mauka to makai.

The first thing I do in the morning is ... drink a cup of coffee and look at the surf. Then I plan my day.

16 | 2016 40 UNDER 40

PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

Presenting

MELI JAMES, 38

Feature film ‘How to Train Your Entrepreneur’

Head of New Ventures, Sultan Ventures

A dramedy starring Emma Stone

Melialani James wears many hats. She is currently the head of new ventures at Sultan Ventures, a boutique venture firm, program director for XLR8UH, a national award-winning accelerator, president of the Hawaii Venture Capital Association and an entrepreneur-in-residence at her two alma maters: Cornell University and Punahou School. ¶ James began in the technology sector in Silicon Valley, arriving just in time for the dot-com bust and struggled to find work. After a few years in the valley, she set her goals on entrepreneurship and mobile application development. She came up with a few apps — including Nirvino, one of the top wine apps on Apple’s App Store — before returning home to Hawaii. “I am on a personal mission to grow the innovation economy in Hawaii,” James said. ¶ James is also founder of HonNewTech, a quarterly networking event that gives entrepreneurs a stage to pitch their ideas to investors, mentors and fellow entrepreneurs. She also launched the Heroes for Hope group at Make-a-Wish Hawaii to engage young professionals in philanthropic activity. — Kathleen Gallagher

Reviews say

One thing people don’t know about me is ... I am a professional skier ... just kidding. I was once asked if I wanted to be a ski instructor, though :).

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is … helping millions of people drink

better wine by developing the No. 1 wine app on iTunes (3 years) with the largest wine database in the world.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... more vineyards.

The first thing I do in the morning is ... stretch.

“Her energy and commitment is evident in everything she does, and she is a relentless advocate for Hawaii entrepreneurs. Meli doesn’t appear to have an ‘off’ switch nor is she easily discouraged, and her insights and focus on the real needs of the entrepreneurial community have made each project better and more impactful.”

RICHARD WACKER,

President and CEO, American Savings Bank

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 17

JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

DOUG JOHNSTONE, 34

Feature film ‘The Tower of Intrigue’

Vice President of Development, The Howard Hughes Corp.

A 1980s action film starring Bruce Willis

Doug Johnstone is one of the main driving forces behind the current slew of developments going on at The Howard Hughes Corp.’s 60acre Ward Village master-planned community in Kakaako. ¶ In his current role, Johnstone guides the development and operations of several projects at Ward Village, including Ward Village Shops and such condominium projects as Anaha, Gateway Towers and Aeo. ¶ Johnstone’s main accomplishment at Ward Village thus far is helping to make it the largest Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, project in the country and the first in Hawaii to receive LEED for Neighborhood Development Platinum certification. ¶ He has helped to institute such measures as water-efficient landscaping, energy efficiency, as well as minimize disturbance in design and construction. ¶ Before Howard Hughes, Johnstone, an alumnus of Punahou School and Stanford University, worked for another big developer, Kamehameha Schools. While there, he developed a number of projects around the island.

Reviews say

“Humble, hardworking and driven to make Hawaii a better place, Doug is poised to become an influential leader in our state’s business community.”

— Duane Shimogawa One thing people don’t know about me is ... much of my work ethic comes from years of athletic competition and lessons from great coaches.

early planning stage to delivering its first homes later this year.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... progressing Ward Village from the

The first thing I do in the morning is … exercise or jump in the ocean, or both.

KELVIN TAKETA,

CEO, Hawaii Community Foundation

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see … holidays when the surf is good.

Presenting

Feature film ‘Done Deal’

An action comedy starring Beyoncé

Reviews say

“Her willingness to share that knowledge has benefited a large number of people, including myself.

She understands the trials and tribulations of running a small business in Hawaii.”

ADAM WONG,

Managing Partner, ACW Ventures

MALIA KAAIHUE, 36 Partner and President, DTL

Malia Kaaihue has worked on several major projects as the head of DTL, the Hawaiian strategy studio she founded in 2013, including NextEra Energy Inc.’s proposed $4.3 billion acquisition of Hawaiian Electric Co., the Office of Hawaiian Affairs’ Kakaako Makai conceptual master plan and the redevelopment of the International Market Place Waikiki. ¶ DTL — which stands for detail — leverages the services of Honolulu’s WCIT Architecture and aims to help developers get through the community outreach process, which can be an arduous task at times. ¶ Kaaihue, who formerly was the director of community planning at WCIT, also has been able to contribute to the progress of other such projects as the Hawaii Tourism Authority’s Center for Hawaiian Music and Dance, The Howard Hughes Corp.’s Kewalo Basin Harbor redevelopment plan and the City and County of Honolulu’s Neal S. Blaisdell Center design efforts. ¶ Kaaihue is also a hula practitioner with Halau Kupukupu ke Aloha and holds positions on the boards of the Native Hawaiian Legal Corp. and Na Leo Kakoo. ¶ Kaaihue was named a PBN Woman to Watch in 2013.

Adam Wong, managing partner of ACW Ventures, who said that Kaaihue’s “knowledge of Hawaii’s place, people and culture is second to none.” — Duane Shimogawa One thing people don’t know about me is ... ​I have seven keiki and I’m a foster parent.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... penning the history of Kaluaokau in an award-winning

book “International Market Place: A Waikiki Icon.”

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... ​Hawaiian language everywhere!​ The first thing I do in the morning is ... kiss my baby girl, Honua.

18 | 2016 40 UNDER 40

PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

Presenting

WALLACE KELLEY, 36

Senior Manager, Securitas Security Services USA Inc. Wallace Kelley is a serial entrepreneur who’s owned seven businesses in three states, six of them built from the ground up. ¶ Kelley launched his business career at 15, starting such businesses as Mika Sushi & Sake, Green Door Pub, Shamrock Public House, Birch Room at Avalanche and French’s Bar & Grill. ¶ At Securitas, he has made a major impact. In December 2012, he took over as branch manager for the lowest performing division in Hawaii, which suffered from low morale, chronic operational problems, low revenue and poor reputation among clients. ¶ Within 36 months, Kelley improved services, added new clients and increased annual revenue by 600 percent to nearly $17 million. ¶ The military veteran, who served in the U.S. Army with distinction for seven years, also is an accomplished chef who’s earned the honor of a James Beard Award. Kelley is now in the process of earning a law degree after earning multiple bachelor’s degrees. — Duane Shimogawa One thing people don’t know about me is ... I’ve sailed from New York, N.Y., to Algarve, Portugal, and back!

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see…. wider roads, less potholes, and bicycles riding on the sidewalk.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... being recognized by PBN and featured in the 2016 class of 40 under 40!

The first thing I do in the morning is … black coffee, the NY Post and preview my calendar to prepare for the day.

Feature film ‘Jack of All Trades’

A comedy — I’ve been involved in several businesses, all seemingly unrelated, so I’ve had to develop a wide range of skill sets and apply my experiences to help lessen the learning curve — starring a Vince Vaughn type.

Reviews say

“In business, few young leaders can match his understanding and ability in all aspects of business, from operations to marketing to finance.

He’s one of the few I’ve known that has the ability to build and then transform an entrepreneurial startup to a leading corporate business.”

CHUCK HARRIS,

Partner, The Shidler Group

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 19

JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

Feature film

VINCENT KIMURA, 37

‘Braveheart (in Startup Paradise)’

CEO, Smart Yields

A comedy starring Daniel Dae Kim, even though he’s not Japanese.

Vincent Kimura is an entrepreneur who thrives on solving problems, and his latest venture is taking on a big one — the sustainability of Hawaii’s food supply. ¶ Troubled by the fact that Hawaii is an island state that imports 85 percent of its food, Kimura launched Smart Yields, a company that helps farmers grow more by improving the soil and using technology to do that by placing ground sensors in fields to monitor soil chemistry and moisture. ¶ Born in Hawaii, Kimura was raised in Asia and attended college on the Mainland before moving to Honolulu. He started his career at the Pacific Basin Economic Council and then KPMG before switching to entrepreneurial ventures. ¶ He is also the founder and CEO of another Hawaii startup, Innovi Green. At both of his companies, Kimura set up a mentoring and internship program to help students become entrepreneurs. – Janis L. Magin One thing people don’t know about me is ... my wife, Lisa, and I took a month-and-half-long trip around the world in 2014 with our kids who were 7, 1½ and 3 months old at the time. On a priceline.com glitch, we made it two-thirds of the way around the world on $540 per person airfare.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... what we’re doing with Smart Yields.

Even though it’s a work in progress, this is the most passionate, driven, and excited I’ve ever been about

Feature film ‘Not Enough Time’

Mark Wahlberg plays me in an action-adventure movie

Reviews say

“While many companies are focusing their efforts on their bottom line, Tim’s priorities are grounded in creating unique experiences for visitors as well as educating them about Hawaiian culture and our environment.”

ARIANNA GERRY,

Club Manager, Hawaiian Canoe Club

Reviews say

“He is making a difference in the future of farming in Hawaii, and his integrity and personal commitment to ‘green’ living make him that much more of a pleasure to work with. People who find multifaceted solutions to big problems deserve to be recognized.”

my work. All my experiences have culminated in this. Taking the risk of launching a startup … I’ve never been so poor, and so happy in my life!

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see …. an economy focused on innovation and R & D because our state is a melting pot of not only culture but also leaders, minds and innovators.

The first thing I do in the morning is … wake up and make peanut butter toast for the two boys and turn on cartoons.

HENRY SHIMAKURA,

Kaawaloa Farm

Presenting

TIMOTHY LARA, 35 Owner, Hawaiian Paddle Sports

Timothy Lara takes leading by example very seriously. After working as a guide for other companies, Lara created a company that takes his guides’ best interest to heart. While some tour companies pay their workers as contract laborers, Lara’s workers are employees who receive medical and dental benefits.

The company also encourages its workers to volunteer once a month for nonprofits around the Maui community — something that probably boosted its community and social scoring on the B-Corp certification. ¶ Pursuing the B Lab’s B-Corp certification was a way to complete social, business accountability and environmental sustainability goals through one process, he told PBN. The business is just one of seven certified in the state, joining Mainland peers such as Ben and Jerry’s, Etsy, Patagonia and the Honest Co. ¶ Lara has also brought his environmentalist perspective to his business practice — his guides do a beach clean-up before every tour and lesson, and the company offers biodegradable “reef safe” sunblock for customers. ¶ The Hawaii Ecotourism Association board member ensured his company was up to the nonprofit’s standards, and HPS is one of about seven HEA-certified businesses as eco friendly in the state.

— Lorin Eleni Gill One thing people don’t know about me is ... I dropped out of college to start my second company and never went back.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ...

Hawaiian Paddle Sports becoming

the first certified B-Corp on Maui.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see…. Hawaii become a leader and model of sustainability.

The first thing I do in the morning is … check emails and messages.

20 | 2016 40 UNDER 40

PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

Congratulations

Presenting

Ian Bigelow!

Vice President Locations Property Management And congrats to all the honorees selected for

2016

UNDER

40 40

NOMINEE

Ian is a young leader with a fantastic business accumen and spirit for innovation. Under Ian’s leadership Locations Property Management has grown to over 3,000 managed properties and 40 employees.

We are proud to call Ian our friend, client, and partner.

(808) 738-3100 RB-17095

LocationsHawaii.com

JASON LENT, 37 President, Lent Enterprises Digital

Lent Enterprises is both a second-generation outfit and a one-year-old advertising agency that lives and works by the motto, “Think outside the rock.” The company was originally a shell that Jason Lent’s father, the late former PBN Publisher Steve Lent, had created as a catch-all for his different business interests. ¶ Lent believes in setting goals for the company. “For our first year, our goal was to be nominated for a Pele Award [from the Hawaii Advertising Federation].” The three-person outfit did better than that — they were nominated for seven, and won all seven. Current clients include Vacations Hawaii, California Hotels, Paradise Cove and now Meadowgold, as well as a number of clients for jingles, which he writes, including national shoe brand Sketchers. ¶ The Kamehameha Schools graduate had moved to Los Angeles with his friend and then-roommate Bruno Mars, for a record deal. Mars went on to show biz success while Lent’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to start a mortgage business in L.A. that crashed along with the housing market in the Great Recession. “The turning point for me was watching Bruno go out and pursue his dream of music,” says Lent “I realized I loved advertising and business so I wanted to take everything I’ve learned and bring it together to do something cool that appealed to everyone.” — A. Kam Napier One thing people don’t know about me is ... I started touring the world as a solo artist singing with major symphonies at the age of five.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... being featured in the Wall Street Journal.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... a group

are you LinkedIn with PBN?

of genius advisors always by my side that are more qualified than I am to run Hawaii.

The first thing I do in the morning is ... check my “TO DO” list on my phone, that was updated the night before, because I believe if I fail to plan, I might as well, plan to fail!

Feature film

‘How Businesses Became Rock Stars’

Follow PBN on LinkedIn atLinkedIn.com/company/ pacific-business-news Breaking local news, blogs, research, pacesetters and national news at pacificbusinessnews.com

A drama starring Robert Downey Jr.

Reviews say

“Jason is a successful entrepreneur and one of the most creative digital and social media marketing talents I know. Something else I admire greatly about Jason is his commitment to our community. His campaigns for [such nonprofit organizations as the Hawaiian Humane Society] have done a remarkable job of raising money and awareness.”

KITTY LAGARETA, CEO, Communications Pacific

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 21

JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

SCOTT LOOS, 32

Feature film

Assistant General Manager, Wet’n’Wild

His keen eye for details and leadership was noticed first at Sea Life Park, where he worked his way from accounting supervisor to operations manager, director of operations and then assistant general manager. ¶ The 32-year-old is well versed in operational management and financial metrics, and also knows what kind of tweaks can be made to improve guest services, says Jerry Pupillo, Wet’n’Wild’s general manager. Pupillo says Loos was integral to the creation of Sea Life Parks’ Chief’s Luau, an important revenue stream since its 2012 opening. The luau, which Tripadvisor calls the No. 1 luau in Hawaii and the No. 2 attraction, is projected to double its revenue this year. ¶ Loos’ insight has been just as transformative at Wet’n’Wild, “immediately contributing to the park’s growth and adding its first new ride in over six years,” leading in-park growth by 30 percent, Pupillo said. Loos also helped to re-negotiate corporatewide food contracts, with double-digit savings. — Lorin Eleni Gill One thing people don’t know about me is ... that I am a passionate person and care deeply about those around me both personally and professionally. There is a time and a place for emotion and passion in both arenas but always remembering the human element when making decisions is an important factor for positive leadership.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... starting the largest traveling circus in Hawaii. Over 10 weeks, five islands,

Feature film ‘Labor of Love’

A drama starring a young Meryl Streep ... because she just kills it in everything.

Reviews say

“In addition to [her] extraordinary knowledge and commitment to our industry as a director on our board, her character and integrity is beyond reproach. She is sincere, caring and just a truly good person.”

GLADYS QUINTO MARRONE,

CEO, Building Industry Association of Hawaii

‘As Good As It Gets’

A comedy, romance, action and drama all rolled into one.

The tale of living every day to its fullest. A summary of taking the good with the bad and spinning everything in a positive, forward direction.

Reviews say “Scott exudes the type of leadership skills that represent what the aloha spirit is all about.”

eight locations, and serving 44,000 locals from Hawaii in the fall of 2013 we were able to generate nearly $1 million and donate $75,000 to over 20 charities.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see… safe, clean and usable green space and parks.

JERRY PUPILLO,

General Manager, Wet’n’Wild

The first thing I do in the morning is … drink fresh ground espresso, followed by a morning run, where I am able to reflect on the previous day and plan the upcoming day.

Presenting

SARAH LOVE, 37 Partner, Bays Lung Rose & Holma

During her 10-year career with Honolulu law firm Bays Lung Rose & Holma, Sarah Love has taken on some major cases, representing such companies as Gentry Homes, Hunt Development, Fidelity National Title & Escrow of Hawaii and Albert C. Kobayashi Inc. ¶ Her efforts have led to the resolution of several prominent cases. Through her representation of Waikoloa Development Co., the master developer for the Waikoloa Beach Resort on the Big Island, she helped the developer get a federal court order requiring Hilton Resorts Corp. to build the long-planned multimillion-dollar “north intersection” at Queen Kaahumanu and Waikoloa Beach Drive. ¶ Love also contributes to Bays Lung Rose & Holma as a member of the firm’s hiring committee. In 2015, she was also given the responsibility of being the co-partner-in charge of education, and is responsible for evaluating the hiring needs of the firm and recruiting new talent to the firm. ¶ On top of this, she has taken on the role as a mentor to the younger associates at the firm to help them develop their legal and case management skills. ¶ Most recently, Love took on the challenge of updating and redeveloping the firm’s website, which is scheduled to roll out this spring.

— Duane Shimogawa One thing people don’t know about me is ... I named my dog after a lawyer in a John Grisham novel.

attorney and making partner.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... persevering through the early years of being a practicing

The first thing I do in the morning is … an inner debate between breakfast or 15 more minutes of sleep.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see … higher salaries for teachers.

22 | 2016 40 UNDER 40

PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

Presenting

RUDY MARILLA, 36

Vice President of Clinical Operations, Contracting, and Community Benefit, Kaiser Permanente Hawaii Rudy Marilla is a process improvement guru with a knack for solving problems, something that has served him well in his career, and resulted in millions in cost savings for Kaiser. ¶ Marilla, who holds a master’s degree in public health from the University of California at Los Angeles and a masters in business administration from the Kellogg School of management at Northwestern University in Illinois, took on his first executive role in his 20s. After that, Marilla worked his way up to vice president and oversees hospital care management, home health, continuing care, dialysis, community benefit and contracting. ¶ Marilla has spearheaded programs such as the Social Wellbeing’s Impact to Care & Health, or SWITCH, which aims to fulfill medical and social care needs for elders. The pilot was so successful it expanded to other Kaiser locations across the state. He also serves on the board of GenKP, or Generation Kaiser Permanente, a group of young Kaiser professionals that works to find innovative ways to keep health care costs down. — Lorin Eleni Gill One thing people don’t know about me is ... when I grow up I’d like to follow in the footsteps of Anthony Bourdain from “No Reservations.”

Travel the world, eat local foods, learn the different cultures, and write.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... getting different individuals and teams to believe they can do great things. Then watching the smile on their face when they actually do something great.

Congratulations Trevor!

We’re proud of your selection in this year’s 40 under 40 Class!

Love, London & Nietzsche

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see … a focus on entrepreneurship and innovation, especially in the IT and mobile industries. Hawaii can be really competitive in this space even with the geographical isolation. Also, by building up small businesses, we can keep more money locally in the Islands, while increasing pride through small business ownership.

The first thing I do in the morning is … I make sure my three kids have their blankets on them. Then I make coffee.

Feature film ‘Gung Ho’

The 1986 comedy about Japanese and American auto manufacturers, starring Michael Keaton. He has an unconventional way of doing things but gets the job done while bringing everyone together. I hope to do the same in health care.

Reviews say

“Although Rudy is much too humble to assume any credit, he is truly a servant leader in every sense. Without a doubt Rudy is destined to play a transformational role in shaping the future of health care in Hawaii.”

LYNN CABATO, Director, Head Start

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 23

JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

Feature film

TIARE MARTIN, 39

I will leave the movie making to the professionals, but if someone were to watch a movie about my life I hope it would bring them joy, inspiration and a lot of laughter because that is what life has gifted me with.

Manager, Oceanit

Tiare Martin started her career at Oceanit as an intern, but after demonstrating her leadership style, technical expertise and graduate acumen, she was hired as a member of the software team.

After a stint in California, Martin moved to Maui as a member of Oceanit’s management team. ¶ On Maui, Martin has led her team to answer complex technical programs with state-of-the art solutions. ¶ How do you orient yourself in space? Martin and her team provided a new approach. Her answer was to deploy a worldwide network of intelligent, autonomous telescopes which provide a new approach. Her answer is cost effective, highly accurate and rapidly scalable. ¶ Over the past five years, her team successfully designed, built and fielded a ground-breaking technology, a worldwide network of intelligent autonomous telescopes that provide cost-effective space situational awareness. ¶ As a woman working in a science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, career, Martin is dedicated to reaching out as a role model to other women. In addition to her responsibilities at Oceanit, she speaks at many events, serves on entrepreneurship and business panels and shares her knowledge and experiences at government and industry conferences. — Kathleen Gallagher One thing people don’t know about me ... I’m the second person in my family to be honored in an event like 40 under 40.

My biggest professional accomplishment ... so far has been leading a multidisciplinary team to build a global network of intelligent, autonomous telescopes for Space Situational Awareness.

Reviews say

“Tiare is a leader of ‘disruptive innovation’ — new concepts and models that offer a radically different market and value network, displacing existing established models.”

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... as a Native Hawaiian, I believe it is my responsibility to care for Hawaii; to help build a sustainable, innovative economy that is rooted in Hawaiian values and cares for our natural environment.

JEANNE UNEMORI SKOG,

President and CEO Maui Economic Development Board

The first thing I do in the morning is ... work out.

Presenting

Feature film ‘Stiletto Business’

A dramedy starring Kristen Wiig

Reviews say

“I truly believe that the future of business and success in our community is in the hands of future leaders like Alicia.

The work she is doing is planting seeds.”

DR. LAWRENCE W. TSEU,

The Tseu Medical Institute at Harris Manchester College at the University of Oxford in England

ALICIA MICHIOKA, 37 CEO, New Media Productions LLC

In the three years since Alicia Michioka’s New Media Productions acquired the Miss Hawaii USA pageant, Michioka has grown the business to an event with sponsorships of more than $100,000 and attendance and revenue of about $125,000 a year. ¶ Michioka knew the business well before acquiring the Miss Hawaii USA and the Miss Hawaii Teen USA pageants — she is a former Miss Hawaii USA herself. ¶ The Kauai native took an event that drew about 500 people at the Ala Moana Hotel, grew it and moved it to the Hawaii Convention Center, and boosted attendance to 1,500. She also supervises the televised production from editing the script to stage design to choosing the musical score. ¶ Michioka also works with contestants each year as a mentor to help them develop their talents, and holds workshops for them on how to prepare resumes, interview for jobs and present themselves as professionals in the workplace and on social media. ¶ She is also an advocate for avoiding stranger abductions and served on the board of the Friends of the Missing Child Center for five years. — Janis L. Magin One thing people don’t know about me is ... I forged my mom’s signature at 15 years old on an application to be an exchange student in Japan.

She found out about it when I was accepted in the program.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... owning the franchise for the Miss Universe Organization in Hawaii and expanding the Miss Hawaii USA program.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see … fashionable and confidently beautiful women inspiring Hawaii’s children to grow into independent and confident adults through education, personal growth, creativity and professional progression.

The first thing I do in the morning is … read the headline news, roll out of bed and get my kiddos ready for school.

24 | 2016 40 UNDER 40

PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

Presenting

Feature film

MELISSA MIYASHIRO, 34

‘Climate Change and Unicorns’

An action and adventure film starring Tina Fey

Chief of Staff, Blue Planet Foundation

Reviews say

Some people are simply very good at their jobs. Take Melissa Miyashiro. ¶ She was hired at Blue Planet Foundation, a Honolulu organization that promotes the use of clean, renewable energy, as its operations director. Less than two years later, after assuming and efficiently performing several other roles at the foundation, not only has she ascended to chief of staff, she has earned a spot in the Pacific Business News 40 Under 40 class of 2016. ¶ Miyashiro is hard working, intelligent, ambitious and dedicated. She helped to bring greater discipline and organization to Blue Planet, improving its project management, operations, branding and strategic planning. ¶ Last year was an excellent year for the foundation. It was the driving force behind making Hawaii the first state with a 100 percent renewable energy law, and had its most successful year of fundraising.

These accomplishments were largely due to Miyashiro’s hard work.

She led communications efforts and community-engagement campaigns to secure the Legislature’s support for the renewable energy law. She launched creative new fundraising events, applied for numerous grants and obtained new sources of funding for Blue Planet. ¶ With her at the helm, the foundation’s fundraising success has reached new levels. — James Prichard One thing people don’t know about me is ... I moved to Hawaii to become a marine biologist.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... being part of the movement that helped Hawaii pass the nation’s first 100%

Feature film ‘Howz.IT’

A romantic comedy starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

Reviews say

“I asked Todd to lead our state government technology team because, as with other state department and agency heads, I seek good people who are committed to doing the right thing. He is moving mountains and is deserving of recognition as a young professional who is making a difference in the workplace and our community.”

GOV. DAVID IGE

“Her choice to work at a nonprofit came with a considerable cut in pay, but she was strongly motivated by the mission. Melissa is a successful young leader who has aligned her career with her passion for a better world.”

clean energy law.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... affordable housing.

CRYSTAL K. ROSE,

Attorney, Bays Lung Rose & Holma

The first thing I do in the morning is ... hit the snooze button.

Presenting

TODD NACAPUY, 39 Chief Information Officer, State of Hawaii

Todd Nacapuy went from being the founder of a gourmet shortbread cookie line, Royal Hawaiian Cookies, to becoming the state’s chief information officer in April 2015. ¶ Nacapuy entered the tech industry in November 2004, when he became a senior technical account manager for Microsoft, a position he held for more than 10 years before Gov. David Ige appointed him the state’s first CIO. ¶ While his title remains CIO, Nacapuy thinks of himself more as the state’s chief innovation officer. So much so that he put it on his business cards. ¶ Gov. David Ige appointed Nacapuy to reshape the way the state government does business.

In two years Nacapuy has already launched a new governance process, which attempts to reduce significant expenses spent on consultants. Nacapuy has also launched transformative initiatives such as eSign Services to help the governor achieve is paperless goals. ¶ Nacapuy is hoping to save the state millions of dollars by moving some of its data center to the University of Hawaii’s twoyear-old information technology center. ¶ Nacapuy is serving as CIO because of his higher sense of service to local community.

— Kathleen Gallagher One thing people don’t know about me is ... I’ve been in three episodes of “Hawaii Five-0” as a stunt man. In one episode, I was killed.

CIO for the state of Hawaii.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... being asked by Governor Ige to be the

The first thing I do in the morning is ... hug my son and tell him I love him.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... everyone say “Aloha, how may I help you?”

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 25

JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

ZAKARY NOYLE, 30

Feature film

Owner, Zak Noyle Photography

Zak Noyle fell in love with surf photography at age 14. Because of his willingness to take chances and try new equipment to improve the quality of his images, he was a senior photographer at Surfer Magazine by age 24. ¶ So far, the pinnacle of his young career was spending the equivalent of a work shift in the water to capture his greatest surfing photos during this year’s Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau big-wave surf contest on Waimea Bay. ¶ “I swam for eight hours straight,” Noyle said as he recalled his exhausting and dangerous shoot. ¶ Noyle is always testing new angles, equipment and ways to make his work better. He is often in and out of the water shooting his subjects, one after another, and sending his shots to Surfer Magazine as quickly as possible. In a moment’s notice, he can be leaving on a surf trip. ¶ Noyle also helped develop a waterproof housing for the iPhone and founded a company, HAYN (pronounced Hawaiian), that markets slippers. ¶ In addition to being successful, Noyle is all about giving back and teaching his trade to anyone who is interested. He held his first aquatography workshop in Honolulu and had over 100 people attend for two days, free of charge. He was also able to get his sponsors to bring in product for the other photographers to learn and try out.

‘The Life Aquatic’

An action movie about a baby seal. Johnny Depp would play me.

Reviews say

“The remarkable thing about Zak is that ... he has a strong sense of community and used his brand to create awareness and help great nonprofit organizations.”

— James Prichard One thing people don’t know about me is ... I own several businesses.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... shooting the Eddie Aikau earlier this year, the most prestigious bigwave surf competition in the world.

I swam for eight hours straight.

Feature film ‘I Drink Scotch and I Know Things’

A drama starring Peter Dinklage

Reviews say

“I have always been impressed with his consistency and professionalism in a high-stress environment, particularly when seeing Kyle demonstrate his problem-solving skills on the fly, fixing issues for business leaders without them even knowing it.”

SHELLEY WILSON,

Founder, President and CEO Wilson Care Group

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... I think just taking care of our beaches, because a main source of income is tourism.

GEORGE KALUHIOKALANI,

Market Executive, Merrill Lynch

The first thing I do in the morning is ... I go to Sandy Beach to jump in the water.

Presenting

KYLE OKAMURA, 35 Facility Director, Redmont Group

Kyle Okamura has a knack for making the most out of every opportunity. ¶ During his eight years working for the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, he accomplished quite a lot. From assistant event coordinator to event coordinator and then event manager, the 35-year-old managed to help lead the production of hundreds of events, including the chamber’s annual membership luncheon that has an attendance of up to 1,000 people. ¶ During his time at the chamber, Okamura grew the events calendar from 40 annual events to 80 events in 2014, with events representing 30 percent of the chamber’s revenue stream. ¶ Okamura also founded the chamber’s Young Professionals program, which has developed a base of 200 young business leaders, entrepreneurs and corporate employees to engage in the chamber. ¶ About two years ago, he was recruited to join Redmont Group by Phillip Hasha, principal and a 2015 40 Under 40 honoree, to become the boutique developer’s facility director. ¶ Since then, Okamura has directly increased Redmont’s division profit by 6 percent during the first year. He also donates his time and talents to Junior Achievement of Hawaii.– Duane Shimogawa One thing people don’t know about me is ... I watch a lot of Food Network and listen to country music.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... starting the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii’s Young Professionals program

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... no traffic, no homelessness, and everyone would have beachside property. I’m not a politician so I can promise anything I want.

The first thing I do in the morning is ... read my email to determine whether it’s a chocolate milk or Red Bull kind of day.

26 | 2016 40 UNDER 40

PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

Presenting

TREVOR OZAWA, 33

Feature film

Councilman, Honolulu City Council

‘A Balancing Act’

An action-adventure comedy starring either Jimmy Fallon or Dwayne Johnson.

During his first year in office, Honolulu City Councilman Trevor Ozawa secured $7.2 million in improvements for public parks in his district, had 10 resolutions adopted by the council and introduced seven bills that were signed into law. ¶ What is he doing for an encore in his second year? Topping the list is pursuing reforms at the Honolulu Zoo after its accreditation wasn’t renewed and advocating for more transparency with the Honolulu rail project.

As one of the youngest members on the Honolulu City Council, Ozawa’s accomplishments in his first year and the difficult issues that he is tackling in 2016 are a reflection of his unwavering commitment. ¶ Ozawa is driven by his desire to one day be able to tell his young daughter, London, that he worked as hard as he could during his time on the council to create a more vibrant city for her to grow up in. ¶ The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan chose him to serve on the American delegation in an individual study program. He was appointed as a member of the National Association of Counties’ Large Urban Caucus. Ozawa’s late father, who worked as a chef, instilled his work ethic into his son. — James Prichard One thing people don’t know about me is ... I kayaked the Na Pali coast on Kauai by myself.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... the introduction and passage of the “London bill,” named after my daughter. The bill requires diaperchanging stations to be installed in both men’s and women’s

Feature film ‘FBI From Big Island’

A cult classic — combining “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure,” “Point Break” and “The Matrix” — starring Keanu Reeves

Reviews say

“I found him to be measured and meticulous; his wisdom and approach were beyond his years. He also demonstrated practical skills that made me confident he would be both a successful lawyer and an important contributor to our state for years to come.”

CURTIS SAIKI,

Vice President and General Counsel, Hawaii Community Foundation

Reviews say

“His message of improving government, fighting for a more vibrant city for this generation and future ones, and putting the people first resonated with voters and led to his success at the polls. ... Since taking office, he has delivered on his promises.”

public restrooms that are new or significantly renovated.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... I’d like to see more of my friends and family who moved away to other places come back home.

MUFI HANNEMANN,

President & CEO, Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association

The first thing I do in the morning is ... check on my daughter, give her a kiss and then read the paper.

Presenting

JOHN ROTH, 35

Owner, Hawaii Trust & Estate Counsel

John Roth has quickly made a name for himself and his law firm, Hawaii Trust & Estate Counsel, which is based in Kamuela on the Big Island. ¶ Within two years of starting his firm, most of the firm’s new clients came by referral from existing clients.

The president of the probate section of the Hawaii State Bar Association has been effective in getting the word out about his firm and what it does through numerous channels. Roth and his firm has a social media presence that provides a valued service to the community as well as visibility. ¶ His regular presentations at Tutu’s House on various estate planning topics give practical help for his audience. ¶ Roth, 35, also is a regular speaker at various forums for other professionals in the community, and writes a monthly column in the North Hawaii News called Just Ask John. ¶ Giving back to the community is something of high importance to Roth. He is president of North Hawaii Hospice and is on the advisory committee of West Hawaii Fund, a component fund of Hawaii Community Foundation. — Duane Shimogawa One thing people don’t know about me is ... I was an assistant to an agent in Hollywood for a brief period of time after graduating from the University of Kansas. My family referred to me as “Hollywood John” when I lived there, before I moved home to go to law school.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... forming

Hawaii Trust & Estate Counsel, with offices in Hilo, Kona and Kamuela.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see … more rescue dogs in business offices.

The first thing I do in the morning is … feed my dog, Hanai, and take her to work with me.

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 27

JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

Feature film

MATTHEW SASAKI, 26

‘The [Request for] Proposal’

A romantic comedy staring Jake Gyllenhaal. In case any directors are reading, I would have no opposition to Rachel McAdams playing the female lead!

Director of Strategic Initiatives, ike Matthew Sasaki oversees strategic initiatives for the entire ike family of companies including Ambient, DataHouse Consulting, Ekahi Health System, Hawaii Quality Physician Organization, Pacific Hi-Tech, Sagely and TeamPraxis. ¶ Sasaki joined ike about three years ago and, after less than two years, was promoted to director of strategic initiatives, serving as a liaison between the company and government, public and private entities, and also for developing marketing and communication strategies, real estate development and new ventures. ¶ He developed the concept for ike’s $2 million, 10,000-square-foot Ekahi Health Center at Waterfront Plaza, the organizations’ flagship, which opened in November. ¶ Sasaki began his career at the Hawaii Medical Service Association, where he was a business analyst. ¶ He also coaches wrestling at Punahou School and serves on the young leaders boards of Make-a-Wish Hawaii and the American Heart Association. — Janis L. Magin One thing people don’t know about me is ... when I was young I took fencing for a year or so. While everyone else was playing soccer and baseball, I got to sword fight!

Every kid’s dream, right?

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... developing the Ekahi Health Center at Waterfront Plaza. A $2 million facility built to offer health care programs for the entire state.

Feature film ‘Getting Bossed’

A dark coming of age comedy, starring TJ Miller, about a creative type who lands a job that may be more corporate than he is used to. Hilarity ensues when life as a creative director, husband and father all converge on one threeday weekend.

Reviews say

“In working with him for nearly three years now, we’ve come to recognize that Vince understands our business as well as anybody in our organization. In his hands, that knowledge, combined with his unmatched vision, infectious passion and prodigious skill in developing effective, attention-grabbing awardwinning campaigns, has made Hawaii’s brand stand out in a maze of competitors and ensured that the state continues to dominate the travel destination category.”

JAY TALWAR, Chief Marketing

Officer, Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau

Reviews say

“He is one of those rare people deserving of admiration for the ability to quietly take things from concept to completion without panic or fanfare, all while staying committed to delivering quality and excellence.”

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see … resources to foster and grow the innovation economy. It’s important that we find ways to provide coworking spaces, collaboration hubs and technological support for our innovation community.

JENAI S. WALL,

The first thing I do in the morning is … take a look at my calendar, visualize how my day will go and plan out the three main objectives I need to accomplish.

Chairman and CEO, Foodland Super Market Ltd.

Presenting

VINCE SOLIVEN, 35 Executive Creative Director, MVNP

Vince Soliven is behind some of the most prominent advertising campaigns in Hawaii, including First Hawaiian Bank’s series of ads featuring Marcus Mariota, the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau’s #LetHawaiiHappen and First Insurance Company of Hawaii’s “In paradise, bad still happens” campaigns. ¶ Soliven came home to Hawaii three years ago to rejoin MVNP after working on the Mainland for 10 years for ad agencies in Los Angeles and Chicago, where he was a creative director at Ogilvy & Mather, one of the largest advertising agencies in the world. ¶ He returned to Hawaii with his wife and two young daughters and was quickly promoted at MVNP to executive creative director at age 33. ¶ Soliven’s community work centers around his expertise in advertising, working with AD2 Honolulu and with MVNP’s advertising campaigns for nonprofit organizations. — Janis L. Magin One thing people don’t know about me is ... I was inspired by a handful of legal movies during my high school and college years. I wanted to be a highly theatrical and successful prosecutor. I studied for the LSAT, then took part in a practice test. Yeah, that didn’t work out.

and recognized on a pop culture level—both locally and nationally.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... it’s probably what I’m doing day to day at MVNP. I’ve had an amazing time working and growing with my colleagues and clients. Together, we’re creating compelling advertising that is getting noticed

The first thing I do in the morning is … I blow my nose. It clears my sinuses, which are a constant problem for me. Something about doing that symbolizes my willingness to start the day — sort of like the start of the theme song for “Salute Your Shorts.”

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see … billboards everywhere. No. I’m kidding. That would be horrible.

But as an ad guy, that would be absolutely wonderful.

28 | 2016 40 UNDER 40

PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

Presenting

RYAN MAE SWEENEY, 37

Feature film ‘Legacy’

A drama starring Grace Park

Director of Sales and Marketing, Honolulu Club

Reviews say

Some people, like Ryan Mae Sweeney, naturally possess a remarkable amount of vision along with an ability to inspire those around them in achieving a common goal. ¶ She has an ability, on a daily basis, to bring passion and energy to the workplace as she drives the business. ¶ The importance placed in honoring relationships is part of Sweeney’s DNA. Many of her achievements can be credited to her natural ability to connect and relate with people, particularly when it comes to building and developing teams. ¶ Using her natural talents, Sweeney empowers other young leaders to contribute to the club’s mission and serve the greater business community. ¶ Her late father, Ray Sweeney, was also an advertising and marketing professional. In addition, he was an original member of the Honolulu Club. Ryan Mae Sweeney’s focus at her job is running the membership team. ¶ Since she accepted her job at the club in 2013, the membership base has increased by 20 percent, while the average member age has grown younger by four years. No other private club in Hawaii is said to have experienced that kind of growth. — James Prichard One thing people don’t know about me is ... I love to eat in bed. That’s one of my secret guilty pleasures.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... rebranding the club. Making a club hot, that “it” factor, it’s very hard to put your finger on “it.”

Feature film

‘Old People and Numbers (Yeah, Right)’ A comedy starring Tina Fey. This movie title seems fitting for the CFO of Hale Makua Health Services. But this is only on the surface – what it appears to be. My career is quite the contrary.

Reviews say

“I have seen Joyce display a passion to ‘make it happen’ no matter the challenges or obstacles to be addressed. This mindset is refreshing and indeed inspiring, as it reflects her engagement and commitment to tasks and outcomes which ultimately benefits the broader community.”

MICHAEL T. MUNEKIYO,

President, Munekiyo Hiraga

“She has brought a refreshing energy to our executive committee. Her passion for the MDA mission, along with her willingness to tap into her vast network of contacts, makes her an invaluable resource in our fight to free individuals from the harmful effects of muscle-debilitating diseases.”

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... more aggressive, affordable housing programs for young people and more opportunities for young people to return to Hawaii and stay.

JADE GUESS, Executive Director, Muscular Dystrophy Association of Hawaii

The first thing I do in the morning is ... I check everything. I grab my phone and check my email.

Presenting

JOYCE TAMORI, 39

Chief Financial Officer, Hale Makua Health Services Avid learner, methodical thinker, excellent leader. Joyce Tamori is all of these – and more. ¶ As chief financial officer of Hale Makua Health Services, Tamori is responsible for measuring and reporting to the board of directors the financial performance of the Mauibased organization, which has more than $33 million in annual revenue. She also performs monthly cost analyses of five programs and feasibility studies of health care-related ventures. ¶ She is a thoughtful and devoted leader to the people she supervises as well as the staff from various departments. She takes as much pride in her work as she does the growth and advancement of those around her. ¶ While her official title within the company is CFO, in many ways she serves as its chief operating officer. With her extensive knowledge of the financial and operational workings of the organization, plus her willingness to listen to people and follow through with her commitments, the employees, residents and families consider her their go-to person for questions and concerns.

Her relationships with vendors and other providers have boosted Hale Makua Health Services’ fundraising efforts. Each year, she secures $25,000 in sponsorships for the organization’s signature fundraising event. — James Prichard One thing people don’t know about me is ... I love greeting cards – making them, receiving them, and giving them.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ...more emphasis on personal development, wellness and sustainability.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... starting up a business with my husband.

The first thing I do in the morning is ... I stretch before getting out of bed and drink a full glass of water.

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 29

JUNE 10, 2016

Presenting

Feature film

BEN TREVINO, 35

‘The Man Who Loved Everything’

A dark comedy, more experimental, a series of vignettes each directed by a different person and starring a different actor, such as Pedro Pascal, Aziz Ansari, Lou Diamond Phillips, Dante Basco, Chris Evans, Adam Sandler and Channing Tatum.

Wes Anderson, Michael Bay, Chris Nolan, Richard Linklater, and PT Anderson all to direct different parts :)

President and Chief Operating Officer, Bikeshare Hawaii

Ben Trevino joined Bikeshare Hawaii as one of the project’s two employees in November 2014. ¶ An entrepreneur and technologist, Trevino started his career at Google before coming to Hawaii in 2010, working as a database developer for the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization while getting his MBA. He was a founder of the Interisland Terminal, a Honolulu-based nonprofit organization with projects including community spaces, the Kakaako Agora and R&D Bookstore and Cafe. ¶ At Bikeshare Hawaii, Trevino is involved in every aspect of the operation, from intense fundraising, securing tens of thousands of dollars in funding, to widespread community outreach and system planning. — Kathleen Gallagher One thing people don’t know about me is ... I got rejected for a job at Ward Theaters. One thing that people close to me know (but many people don’t) is that my ultimate career goal is to have my own cinema — a platform for community impact.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... right around the corner when Bikeshare launches! The result will be a spearhead of community change that will change people’s mindsets about what is possible in transportation, what is possible in public/private partnerships, how we use and share resources as a community and how we think

Feature film ‘Blessed’

Starring Matt Damon, he’s smart, fairly stoic, serious without being too much of a jerk and good looking. Anyone who knows me can tell you just how blessed I have been in my life.

Reviews say

“A team player who leads by example, Marcus is highly regarded for his ability to bring people together to create solutions, whether it’s for products, services or processes. He is known as a ‘dot-connector’ who has cultivated strong professional and personal networks and as a compassionate, hard-working leader who consistently brings out the best in others.”

SCOTT BARBER,

President and CEO, Hawaiian Telcom

Reviews say

“Ben is the perfect person to launch the state’s first major bikeshare program.

He is not afraid of hard work or challenges, so I have no doubt that Ben will succeed in establishing and operating this important and much-needed mode of transportation for both residents and visitors.

He has a vision for the future and understands transformation, but more importantly, he is a leader.”

about community health. Prior to that, though, my previous biggest professional accomplishment was developing and implementing the UHERO Dashboard.

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see … more open government and transparency, a pronounced effort to market government to the public and stimulate more engagement with public sector at the local and municipal levels.

The first thing I do in the morning is … read, when I can ... when I can start the day with a chapter of a book or an article I’ve been saving up, it’s usually a good day.

LINDA SCHATZ,

Development Manager, Forest City Hawaii

Presenting

MARCUS YANO, 36 Chief Operating Officer, SystemMetrics, a Hawaiian Telcom Co.

Marcus Yano is well connected, and he uses his network to the advantage of his company and others. ¶ Yano is known for his ability to see the core of an issue and bring the right people together to come up with a viable solution. When Hawaiian Telcom acquired SystemMetrics in 2013, he was tapped by sales and technical teams in both organizations for help with developing customized solutions for customers. ¶ Yano served in the Army and was deployed to Iraq in 2005, where he learned about having a collaborative team approach, which has proved successful in business. ¶ He’s currently helping the University of Hawaii system align its computer science educational programs to enhance the number of job-ready graduates and create pathways to the cybersecurity profession.

— Kathleen Gallagher One thing people don’t know about me is ... I have a habit of devouring too many mints. I can munch on an entire can of Altoids in an hour or less.

My biggest professional accomplishment so far is ... being named vice president of corporate information systems for Title Guaranty is probably my major accomplishment so far. I can still remember my first evaluation when I was a support technician.

My boss asked at the end of my evaluation if I had any questions.

I pointed behind him to the chief information officer’s office and asked “What do I need to do to get that job?”

If I ran Hawaii, you’d see ... more businesses expand beyond Hawaii.

Many Hawaii companies could expand beyond the limited local markets and bring their products and services to the world.

The first thing I do in the morning is ... grab my phone and check my email ... I know, disgusting.

30 | 2016 40 UNDER 40

PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS

Compiled by Lucy Tuitupou 808-955-8037, @pbnresearch ltuitupou@bizjournals.com

PBN’S 40 UNDER 40 – 2016, PAGE 1 ALPHABETICAL LIST OF YOUNG LEADERS HONORED BY PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS ON JUNE 9, 2016 Title Website

Business Name Address

Amey

President hawaiivaloans.com

Jennifer

Armstrong

Brenda

Asuncion

First Name

Gabe

Lisa

Last Name

Ayabe

Ian

Bigelow

Joe

Bock

Phone

Age

Hawaii VA Loans 338 Kamokila Blvd., #202 Kapolei, HI 96707

808-227-0299

36

Owner kaiaconsulting.com

Kaia Consulting 1705-A 9th Ave. Honolulu, HI 96816

808-286-3816

37

Loko Ia Coordinator kuahawaii.org

Kuaaina Ulu Auamo 47-20 Waihee Rd. Kaneohe, HI 96744

808-672-2545

29

Partner cades.com

Cades Schutte 1000 Bishop St., #1200 Honolulu, HI 96813

808-521-9218

34

VP of Property Management locationshawaii.com

Locations 614 Kapahulu Ave., #300 Honolulu, HI 96815

808-738-3140

32

COO nellamediagroup.com

Nella Media Group 36 N. Hotel St. Honolulu, HI 96817

808-351-7387

36

Maxine

Burkett

Associate Professor of Law law.hawaii.edu

University of Hawaii, William S. Richardson School of Law 2515 Dole St. Honolulu, HI 96822

808-478-2146

39

Rocky

Canon

Experiential Manager turtlebayresort.com

Turtle Bay Resort 57-091 Kamehameha Hwy. Kahuku, HI 96731

NA

36

Ryan

Char

Associate Project Manager group70int.com

Group 70 International Inc. 925 Bethel St., 5th Fl. Honolulu, HI 96813

808-523-5866

31

Owner NA

Inspired Financial Partners 765 Amana St., #202 Honolulu, HI 96813

808-947-3574

39

Liane Kimura

Chong

Marc

Gannon

VP of Community Impact auw.org

Aloha United Way 200 N. Vineyard Blvd., #700 Honolulu, HI 96817

808-543-2215

35

Scott

Glenn

Director health.hawaii.gov/oeqc/

State of Hawaii Office of Environmental Quality Control 235 S. Beretania St., #702 Honolulu, HI 96813

808-586-4185

38

Farrah-Marie

Gomes

Interim Associate VP for Student Affairs hawaii.edu

University of Hawaii Hilo 200 W. Kawili St. Hilo, HI 96720

808-345-4190

39

CEO comprend.io/

Comprendio Inc. 2800 Woodlawn Dr., #286 Honolulu, HI 96822

281-782-1092

33

Sean

Hookano-Briel

Stephanie

Hsu

Associate group70int.com

Group 70 International 925 Bethel St., 5th Fl. Honolulu, HI 96813

617-251-3116

34

Jenna

Ishii

Education Coordinator/Executive Assistant hokulea.com

Polynesian Voyaging Society 10 Sand Island Pkwy.

Honolulu, HI 96819

808-842-1101

31

Head of New Ventures sultanventures.com

Sultan Ventures 900 Fort St. Mall, #1888 Honolulu, HI 96813

808-722-6360

38

VP of Development wardvillage.com

The Howard Hughes Corp.

1240 Ala Moana Blvd., #200 Honolulu, HI 96814

808-228-4748

34

President dtlstudio.com

DTL Hawaii 725 Kapiolani Blvd., 4th Fl. Honolulu, HI 96813

808-593-3048

36

Senior Manager securitasinc.com

Securitas Security Services USA Inc. 888 N. Nimitz Hwy., #105 Honolulu, HI 96817

808-539-5011

36

Melialani

James

Doug

Johnstone

Malia

Kaaihue

Wallace

Kelley

NOTES: NA - not applicable, not available or not approved.

R CLOSER

LOOK

ABOUT THE LIST Information was obtained from firm representatives.

Information on The List was supplied by individual companies through questionnaires, phone interviews, company websites and could not be independently verified by the Pacific Business News. Only those that responded to our inquiries were listed.

NEED A COPY OF THE LIST? Information for obtaining reprints, web permissions and commemorative plaques, call 877-3975134. More information can be found online at PacificBusinessNews.com by clicking the “Store” tab near the top of the site.

WANT TO BE ON THE LIST? If you wish to be surveyed when The List is next updated, or if you wish to be considered for other Lists, email your contact information to Lucy Tuitupou at ltuitupou@ bizjournals.com.

2016 40 UNDER 40 | 31

JUNE 10, 2016

Compiled by Lucy Tuitupou 808-955-8037, @pbnresearch ltuitupou@bizjournals.com

PBN’S 40 UNDER 40 – 2016, PAGE 2 ALPHABETICAL LIST OF YOUNG LEADERS HONORED BY PACIFIC BUSINESS NEWS ON JUNE 9, 2016 First Name

Last Name

Title Website

Business Name Address

Vincent

Kimura

CEO smartyields.com

Timothy

Lara

Jason

Scott

Phone

Age

Smart Yields 2909 Waialae Ave., #18 Honolulu, HI 96816

808-291-2080

37

Owner hawaiianpaddlesports.com

Hawaiian Paddle Sports 27 Halekaui St. Kihei, HI 96753

808-283-4370

35

Lent

President lententerprises.com

Lent Enterprises Digital 700 Bishop St., #600 Honolulu, HI 96813

808-561-8975

37

Loos

Assistant General Manager wetnwildhawaii.com

Wet 'n' Wild Hawaii 400 Farrington Hwy. Kapolei, HI 96707

808-674-9283

32

Partner legalhawaii.com

Bays Lung Rose & Holma 700 Bishop St., 9th Fl. Honolulu, HI 96813

808-523-9000

37

Sarah

Love

Rudy

Marilla

VP kp.org

Kaiser Permanente 2828 Paa St., #3025 Honolulu, HI 96819

808-432-7788

36

Tiare

Martin

Maui Site Manager oceanit.com

Oceanit 1305 N. Holopono St., #4A Kihei, HI 96753

808-954-4317

39

Alicia

Michioka

CEO mishawaiiusa.com

New Media Productions 1339 Miloiki St. Honolulu, HI 96825

808-384-7659

37

Melissa

Miyashiro

Chief of Staff blueplanetfoundation.com

Blue Planet Foundation 55 Merchant St., #1700 Honolulu, HI 96813

808-954-6161

34

Todd

Nacapuy

CIO ets.hawaii.gov

State of Hawaii 1151 Punchbowl St., #B10 Honolulu, HI 96813

808-586-6000

39

Noyle

Owner zaknoyle.com

Zak Noyle Photography 836 Ocean View Dr. Honolulu, HI 96816

808-722-9729

30

Facility Director redmontgroup.com

Redmont Group 814 Ilaniwai St. Honolulu, HI 96813

808-445-9436

35

Councilman honolulu.gov/councild4/default.html

Honolulu City Council 530 S.. King St., #202 Honolulu, HI 96813

808-768-5004

33

Owner hawaiitrustlaw.com

Hawaii Trust & Estate Counsel P.O. Box 1743 Kamuela, HI 96743

808-443-9090

35

Director of Strategic Initiatives ikehawaii.com

Ike 1585 Kapiolani Blvd., #1800 Honolulu, HI 96814

808-942-8108

26

Executive Creative Director mvnp.com

MVNP 999 Bishop St., 24th Fl. Honolulu, HI 96813

808-536-0881

35

Marketing Director honoluluclub.com

The Honolulu Club 932 Ward Ave., 7th Fl. Honolulu, HI 96814

808-585-9626

37

Zakary

Kyle

Trevor

John

Okamura

Ozawa

Roth

Matthew

Sasaki

Vince

Soliven

Ryan Mae

Sweeney

Joyce

Tamori

CFO halemakua.org

Hale Makua Health Services 472 Kaulana St. Kahului, HI 96732

808-873-6620

39

Benjamin

Trevino

President/COO bikesharehawaii.org

Bikeshare Hawaii 999 Bishop St., #1202 Honolulu, HI 96813

808-225-4725

35

Yano

COO systemmetrics.com

SystemMetrics, a Hawaiian Telcom company 900 Fort St. Mall, #250 Honolulu, HI 96813

808-791-7040

36

Marcus

NOTES: NA - not applicable, not available or not approved.

R CLOSER

LOOK

ABOUT THE LIST Information was obtained from firm representatives.

Information on The List was supplied by individual companies through questionnaires, phone interviews, company websites and could not be independently verified by the Pacific Business News. Only those that responded to our inquiries were listed.

NEED A COPY OF THE LIST? Information for obtaining reprints, web permissions and commemorative plaques, call 877-3975134. More information can be found online at PacificBusinessNews.com by clicking the “Store” tab near the top of the site.

WANT TO BE ON THE LIST? If you wish to be surveyed when The List is next updated, or if you wish to be considered for other Lists, email your contact information to Lucy Tuitupou at ltuitupou@ bizjournals.com.

32 | 2016 40 under 40

PACIFIC Business NEWS

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