EAT THINK DRINK: Regional Kitchens – Transforming Ag Through Strategic
EAT THINK DRINK 27: Regional Kitchens was a memorable evening filled with insightful discussion celebrating Hawai‘i’s commitment to local agriculture. Keynote speaker Senator Donovan Dela Cruz, along with moderator First Lady Jaime Kanani Green, led a dynamic conversation with community and industry leaders on how regional kitchens can support food sustainability and local ag growth.
Another highlight of the night was the special menu crafted by four Hawai‘i’s chefs, each collaborating with students from their high school alma maters to bring student-inspired dishes to life. They showcased fresh, locally grown ingredients, reflecting the chefs’ dedication to their communities and the next generation of culinary talent.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for an evening of great conversation, connections, and local flavor! A video of the program to be available soon!
Teachers Gear Up for a Year of Innovation at YEP Bootcamp
Earlier this week, the Hawai‘i Agricultural Foundation (HAF) held its first Young Entrepreneurs Program (YEP) Bootcamp at the Wahiawā Value-Added Product Development Center. More than 40 teachers from across the state gathered for a dynamic day of hands-on learning and expert-led sessions focused on entrepreneurship and agri-business.
Senator Donovan Dela Cruz welcomed the educators with an inspiring message on the importance of value-added products made with locally sourced ingredients. He emphasized how these initiatives strengthen Hawai‘i’s agricultural industry, boost food security, and foster thriving communities.
The event featured expert insights, including financial planning tips from Ryan Chun of First Hawaiian Bank and interactive product development workshops led by Dr. Lauren Tamamoto of Kapi‘olani Community College. Keynote speaker Jan Hori of Hawaiian Pie Company shared her entrepreneurial journey, while experts like Amber Vuong from the Hawai‘i Department of Health and Jackie Murai Pedersen of Diamond Bakery covered food safety and branding.
The day concluded with a panel of local entrepreneurs—Anthony Mau (Kupu Place), Maile Kamisugi (ʻUlu & Kalo Bakery), and Scott Potter (Haleiwa Salt Co.)—who offered real-world advice on launching and growing successful businesses.
Mahalo to everyone who attended and supported the event. Additional thanks to: Wahiawā Value-Added Product Development Center and Leeward Community College – Chris Bailey, and Maui Food Innovation Center and Maui College – Chefs Doug Paul and Angela Gannon.
Meet our Localicious Heroes
The Hawai‘i Agricultural Foundation has partnered up with Searider Productions at Wai‘anae High School—a collective of teachers, students and programs dedicated to helping the students of the Wai‘anae complex succeed in all their endeavors—to film and profile O‘ahu farmers and value-added producers to highlight the amazing work happening in Hawai‘i’s agricultural industry.
Empowering Future Ag Leaders
Mika the Sous Chef Collection
Support Hawai‘i’s local farmers, ranchers and fishermen!
With your contribution, you can support HAF’s farmer assistance, ag education, and outreach/public awareness programs—paving Hawai‘i’s path towards a sustainable future.
Support HAF
Contributions go directly to supporting local farmers, ag education and outreach programs.