Why I Support Local
For one, I believe it’s important to uplift our local community and the economy of Hawai‘i. Being raised here, you quickly learn that community isn’t just a word — it’s a way of life. Building that community, having trust in it, and supporting the people within it isn’t just a part of my identity and ethos — it’s a big driving force for everyone who calls this place home.
Businesses thrive because of it. Students — whether you’re in high school or college — find belonging through it. Even my dogs, Ume and Mochi, thrive because they have a community of other dogs and humans who play with them, look after them, and share aloha.
KakiMOCHI (left) & UMEboshi (right)
Don’t get me wrong — I love a good deal at a big-box store every now and then. But whenever I can, I choose to support local. Whether it’s grabbing a quick coffee, picking up a new shirt, or buying a treat for my pups, I try my best to keep my dollars in the community. Because at the end of the day, it’s about more than just a purchase — it’s about people, connection, and aloha.
I choose to support local because I care about the people behind the business — the lives they impact, the families they support, and the neighborhoods they help strengthen.
Just understanding what the word community truly means is a huge reason why I love to support local businesses.
I choose to support local because I care about the people behind the business