Pearl City High School Graduate Awarded Ho‘oilina Scholarship for Travel Management Degree

Jorden Yamamura, a recent graduate of Pearl City High School, has been honored as one of seven recipients of the esteemed Ho‘oilina Scholarship.

 

This scholarship, providing approximately $12,000 annually for four years, will support Yamamura as he pursues a bachelor's degree in Travel Industry Management at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa’s Shidler College of Business.

 

The Ho‘oilina Scholarship, established in 2019, is a collaborative effort among the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, the Hawai‘i State Legislature, UH Mānoa, and the Hawai‘i Lodging and Tourism Association.

 

Its mission is to cultivate local talent for Hawai‘i’s visitor industry by empowering students passionate about becoming future leaders in tourism and hospitality.

 

“Through the Ho‘oilina Scholarship, we are investing in kama‘āina talent who will help shape a visitor industry that is sustainable, innovative, and rooted in Hawai‘i’s values,” said Caroline Anderson, HTA interim president and chief executive officer.

 

This initiative underscores the commitment to fostering a tourism sector that reflects the unique culture and values of Hawai‘i.

 

The 2025 cohort of Ho‘oilina Scholarship awardees includes students from across the state, selected for their academic excellence, leadership, and community service.

 

Many recipients have already gained valuable experience through hospitality internships, student government, and volunteer work.

 

In partnership with the UH Mānoa School of Travel Industry Management, HTA will provide the scholarship recipients with mentorship, networking opportunities, and hands-on learning experiences with top industry leaders.

 

This comprehensive support aims to prepare students like Yamamura to become future leaders in Hawai‘i’s tourism and hospitality sectors.