Rooted in the values Hopena carried, we continue the work he began with clarity and purpose. Through HOPENA Foundation, we uphold his values through meaningful programs that support Hawaiʻi and strengthen our community.
OUR MISSION
The HOPENA Foundation is dedicated to perpetuating Hopena’s spirit and values by empowering youth through scholarships and community engagement. The essence of Hopena embodies staying deeply connected to family and community, environmental stewardship and a profound bond with ‘āina, and honoring the wisdom and traditions of watermen and water women.
WHO WE ARE
HOPENA Foundation was founded by family and friends of Hopena Pokipala and is rooted in community, culture, and connection. Our Vision centers on empowering youth while honoring the values that shape Hawaiʻi. Through Our Pillars and thoughtful Leadership, we focus on meaningful programs that strengthen ʻOhana, uplift our community, and foster stewardship of land and ocean.
HOPENA
POKIPALA
Born in Kailua, raised throughout Hawai’i, Hopena Pokipala grew up surrounded by his family, learning from an early age the meaning of ‘Ohana and the values of hard work and kuleana. A proud Kamehameha Kapālama graduate, Hopena went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree in International Business and Marketing from the Shidler School of Business at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, preparing him for a life of leadership on land and at sea. Hopena was more than a paddler and waterman—he was a pillar of his community, a mentor and role model to young athletes, and a friend to all, known for his unwavering commitment to uplifting others.
Hopena was a devoted and loving husband, whose greatest joy was supporting his wife and building a future grounded in Aloha and shared purpose. As a full-time longshoreman and small-business owner of Oysters Hawaiʻi, Hopena embodied dedication and entrepreneurship in service to his community. Hopena spent nearly every free moment helping others, showing up to lend a hand, offer guidance, or simply be present for anyone in need. Hopena’s unwavering smile and relentlessly positive attitude lit up every space he entered, reminding those around him that kindness, service, and love could carry them through even the hardest days.
OUR TEAM
HOPENA Foundation was founded by a few of the many people who knew and loved Hopena, and we're still growing that circle every day. Volunteers, staff, and supporters are joining us to build a community rooted in compassion and action. There's always room for more hands, more hearts, and more voices working toward a brighter future for Hawai'i. If you feel called to be part of this journey, we'd love to have you.
Our Advisory Board
Guided by ʻOhana
Hopena's ʻohana serves as our Advisory Board, providing steady guidance that keeps HOPENA Foundation aligned with the values and vision he lived by.
Our Board of Directors
Bonded by Purpose
Our Board of Directors brings together some of Hopena's closest friends, offering steady leadership and direction grounded in the bond they shared with him.
Our Founders
Connected by Hopena
Hopena is the heart of HOPENA Foundation. Directors Colin Lee and Ryse Dawson shared a longstanding friendship and brotherhood with him, alongside Executive Director Emma Olowofoyeku, his cousin; they lead the foundation, carrying forward the values and vision he lived by, a life that embodied the essence of Aloha.
SHARE YOUR STORY
This space invites loved ones to share memories and photos that honor Hopena and the moments shared with him. Each story helps keep his spirit present and remembered. Through these shared experiences, we hope to offer comfort and connection. Together, we continue honoring Hopena in a meaningful way.
MAHALO TO OUR SPONSORS
