Be part of this year’s UXHI Conference — get your ticket or support as a sponsor today.
Be part of this year’s UXHI Conference — apply to speak or support as a sponsor today.
The Lineup
The Lineup
Meet our UXHI Conference speaker lineup. Tune in and learn how they’re thinking, what they’re making, and what's next.
Meet our UXHI Conference speaker lineup. Tune in and learn how they’re thinking, what they’re making, and what's next.
Arleen Fernando
Founder and CEO, Haumea Technologies
Arleen is a technology leader who transforms digital experiences through the intersection of design, engineering, and strategic vision. As Founder & CEO of Haumea Technologies, she leads end-to-end product development—from UX research and design systems to React/React Native implementation. With 20+ years crafting immersive experiences at Microsoft (Xbox/Kinect), HP (Sprout innovation), and most recently leading digital transformation for Zippy's and Shangri La Museum, Arleen specializes in rapid prototyping and composable architecture that bridges beautiful design with technical feasibility. Her design-first approach leverages Figma, Miro, and AI tools to create intuitive interfaces that reduce complexity and delight users across web, mobile, and emerging platforms.
Arleen Fernando
Founder and CEO, Haumea Technologies
Arleen is a technology leader who transforms digital experiences through the intersection of design, engineering, and strategic vision. As Founder & CEO of Haumea Technologies, she leads end-to-end product development—from UX research and design systems to React/React Native implementation. With 20+ years crafting immersive experiences at Microsoft (Xbox/Kinect), HP (Sprout innovation), and most recently leading digital transformation for Zippy's and Shangri La Museum, Arleen specializes in rapid prototyping and composable architecture that bridges beautiful design with technical feasibility. Her design-first approach leverages Figma, Miro, and AI tools to create intuitive interfaces that reduce complexity and delight users across web, mobile, and emerging platforms.
Arleen Fernando
Founder and CEO, Haumea Technologies
Arleen is a technology leader who transforms digital experiences through the intersection of design, engineering, and strategic vision. As Founder & CEO of Haumea Technologies, she leads end-to-end product development—from UX research and design systems to React/React Native implementation. With 20+ years crafting immersive experiences at Microsoft (Xbox/Kinect), HP (Sprout innovation), and most recently leading digital transformation for Zippy's and Shangri La Museum, Arleen specializes in rapid prototyping and composable architecture that bridges beautiful design with technical feasibility. Her design-first approach leverages Figma, Miro, and AI tools to create intuitive interfaces that reduce complexity and delight users across web, mobile, and emerging platforms.
Corinne Okada Takara
Artist and STEAM Educator, Okada Design & Nest Makerspace
Corinne Okada Takara is an Oʻahu-based artist/STEAM educator exploring intersections of culture, biology, and design. Founder of Okada Design, Nest Makerspace, Pono STEAM Kits, and the Mizu-Wai project, she creates participatory installations and programs that weave ancestral knowledge, community storytelling, technology, and bio-innovation to inspire inclusive, place-rooted futures.
Corinne Okada Takara
Artist and STEAM Educator, Okada Design & Nest Makerspace
Corinne Okada Takara is an Oʻahu-based artist/STEAM educator exploring intersections of culture, biology, and design. Founder of Okada Design, Nest Makerspace, Pono STEAM Kits, and the Mizu-Wai project, she creates participatory installations and programs that weave ancestral knowledge, community storytelling, technology, and bio-innovation to inspire inclusive, place-rooted futures.
Corinne Okada Takara
Artist and STEAM Educator, Okada Design & Nest Makerspace
Corinne Okada Takara is an Oʻahu-based artist/STEAM educator exploring intersections of culture, biology, and design. Founder of Okada Design, Nest Makerspace, Pono STEAM Kits, and the Mizu-Wai project, she creates participatory installations and programs that weave ancestral knowledge, community storytelling, technology, and bio-innovation to inspire inclusive, place-rooted futures.
Gage Minamoto
Freelance Designer & Pi'iku Co. Alum
SESSION: Impossible to Ignore: Expanding Your Luck for Design Opportunities
Gage Minamoto is a Hawai‘i-based designer with 3 years of experience freelancing with startups and organizations to create software and brand experiences. He has worked with clients including Servco and University of Hawai‘i Esports, and shares his passion for uplifting the next generation of designers through talks and workshops.
Gage Minamoto
Freelance Designer & Pi'iku Co. Alum
SESSION: Impossible to Ignore: Expanding Your Luck for Design Opportunities
Gage Minamoto is a Hawai‘i-based designer with 3 years of experience freelancing with startups and organizations to create software and brand experiences. He has worked with clients including Servco and University of Hawai‘i Esports, and shares his passion for uplifting the next generation of designers through talks and workshops.
Gage Minamoto
Freelance Designer & Pi'iku Co. Alum
SESSION: Impossible to Ignore: Expanding Your Luck for Design Opportunities
Gage Minamoto is a Hawai‘i-based designer with 3 years of experience freelancing with startups and organizations to create software and brand experiences. He has worked with clients including Servco and University of Hawai‘i Esports, and shares his passion for uplifting the next generation of designers through talks and workshops.
Jaden Kapali
Full Stack Developer, Purple Maiʻa Foundation
SESSION: Designing with ʻĀina: Place-Based Design from an ʻŌiwi Perspective
Jaden Kapali is a Full Stack Developer and AI technologist with Purple Maiʻa Foundation’s ʻĀina Foundry, where he builds tools that weave cultural knowledge, community impact, and modern technology. With experience in data visualization, machine learning, and full-stack development, he crafts applications that bridge research, community needs, and real-world usability ensuring technology serves with intention and integrity. Born in Hilo and raised in Kapaʻa, Kapali now lives and codes back home in Hilo.
Jaden Kapali
Full Stack Developer, Purple Maiʻa Foundation
SESSION: Designing with ʻĀina: Place-Based Design from an ʻŌiwi Perspective
Jaden Kapali is a Full Stack Developer and AI technologist with Purple Maiʻa Foundation’s ʻĀina Foundry, where he builds tools that weave cultural knowledge, community impact, and modern technology. With experience in data visualization, machine learning, and full-stack development, he crafts applications that bridge research, community needs, and real-world usability ensuring technology serves with intention and integrity. Born in Hilo and raised in Kapaʻa, Kapali now lives and codes back home in Hilo.
Jaden Kapali
Full Stack Developer, Purple Maiʻa Foundation
SESSION: Designing with ʻĀina: Place-Based Design from an ʻŌiwi Perspective
Jaden Kapali is a Full Stack Developer and AI technologist with Purple Maiʻa Foundation’s ʻĀina Foundry, where he builds tools that weave cultural knowledge, community impact, and modern technology. With experience in data visualization, machine learning, and full-stack development, he crafts applications that bridge research, community needs, and real-world usability ensuring technology serves with intention and integrity. Born in Hilo and raised in Kapaʻa, Kapali now lives and codes back home in Hilo.
Josh Koh
Product Designer, Piʻikū Co. Alum
SESSION: Built By Us: Why Local Talent Should Design Local Tech- A Zippy’s Case Study
Josh Koh is a Hawaiʻi-based product designer and Piʻikū Co. Cohort 4 alum, with six years of previous visual and multimedia design experience in the local government sector. His work is rooted in equity, community, and social impact, shaping digital experiences that honor and amplify people’s stories. He is excited about Hawaii’s growing tech community, where groups like UXHI and Piʻikū Co. are proving that innovation can thrive while staying grounded in local voices and values.
Josh Koh
Product Designer, Piʻikū Co. Alum
SESSION: Built By Us: Why Local Talent Should Design Local Tech- A Zippy’s Case Study
Josh Koh is a Hawaiʻi-based product designer and Piʻikū Co. Cohort 4 alum, with six years of previous visual and multimedia design experience in the local government sector. His work is rooted in equity, community, and social impact, shaping digital experiences that honor and amplify people’s stories. He is excited about Hawaii’s growing tech community, where groups like UXHI and Piʻikū Co. are proving that innovation can thrive while staying grounded in local voices and values.
Josh Koh
Product Designer, Piʻikū Co. Alum
SESSION: Built By Us: Why Local Talent Should Design Local Tech- A Zippy’s Case Study
Josh Koh is a Hawaiʻi-based product designer and Piʻikū Co. Cohort 4 alum, with six years of previous visual and multimedia design experience in the local government sector. His work is rooted in equity, community, and social impact, shaping digital experiences that honor and amplify people’s stories. He is excited about Hawaii’s growing tech community, where groups like UXHI and Piʻikū Co. are proving that innovation can thrive while staying grounded in local voices and values.
Kim Davidson
CPO, New River Strategies & Program Director, Piʻikū Co.
SESSION: An Introduction to Tech Criticism
Kim is a product leader with experience building software for nonprofits, civic engagement, politics, and federal and local government agencies. She currently works as CPO at New River Strategies, a data insights organization, and leads programming at Piʻikū Co., a local nonprofit helping emerging technologists break into the industry.
Kim Davidson
CPO, New River Strategies & Program Director, Piʻikū Co.
SESSION: An Introduction to Tech Criticism
Kim is a product leader with experience building software for nonprofits, civic engagement, politics, and federal and local government agencies. She currently works as CPO at New River Strategies, a data insights organization, and leads programming at Piʻikū Co., a local nonprofit helping emerging technologists break into the industry.
Kim Davidson
CPO, New River Strategies & Program Director, Piʻikū Co.
SESSION: An Introduction to Tech Criticism
Kim is a product leader with experience building software for nonprofits, civic engagement, politics, and federal and local government agencies. She currently works as CPO at New River Strategies, a data insights organization, and leads programming at Piʻikū Co., a local nonprofit helping emerging technologists break into the industry.
Krizel Tomines
UX Researcher, Majesco & Pi'iku Co. alum
SESSION: State of UX in Hawai'i
Krizel Tomines is a UX Researcher at Majesco, specializing in enterprise insurance tech. She prioritizes UX research while staying passionate about design. Her recently contributions include the UXHI’s State of UX in Hawaiʻi Report and a UX Design internship with events startup, Social Lite. As a board member of Ad 2 Hawaiʻi, she leads website redesigns for annual public service campaigns.
Krizel Tomines
UX Researcher, Majesco & Pi'iku Co. alum
SESSION: State of UX in Hawai'i
Krizel Tomines is a UX Researcher at Majesco, specializing in enterprise insurance tech. She prioritizes UX research while staying passionate about design. Her recently contributions include the UXHI’s State of UX in Hawaiʻi Report and a UX Design internship with events startup, Social Lite. As a board member of Ad 2 Hawaiʻi, she leads website redesigns for annual public service campaigns.
Krizel Tomines
UX Researcher, Majesco & Pi'iku Co. alum
SESSION: State of UX in Hawai'i
Krizel Tomines is a UX Researcher at Majesco, specializing in enterprise insurance tech. She prioritizes UX research while staying passionate about design. Her recently contributions include the UXHI’s State of UX in Hawaiʻi Report and a UX Design internship with events startup, Social Lite. As a board member of Ad 2 Hawaiʻi, she leads website redesigns for annual public service campaigns.
Dr. Laura Morrison
Ontario Tech U
SESSION: Connecting to Place: Bridging Community, Culture, and Practice in Hawaiʻi
Dr. Laura Morrison is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education at Ontario Tech University. Her research focuses on innovative education and emerging technologies, with expertise in critical digital literacies, promising practices for online and hyflex teaching and learning and making as a pedagogical approach for inclusive education. Her current research is investigating AI literacy and ethics in education.
Dr. Laura Morrison
Ontario Tech U
SESSION: Connecting to Place: Bridging Community, Culture, and Practice in Hawaiʻi
Dr. Laura Morrison is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education at Ontario Tech University. Her research focuses on innovative education and emerging technologies, with expertise in critical digital literacies, promising practices for online and hyflex teaching and learning and making as a pedagogical approach for inclusive education. Her current research is investigating AI literacy and ethics in education.
Dr. Laura Morrison
Ontario Tech U
SESSION: Connecting to Place: Bridging Community, Culture, and Practice in Hawaiʻi
Dr. Laura Morrison is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education at Ontario Tech University. Her research focuses on innovative education and emerging technologies, with expertise in critical digital literacies, promising practices for online and hyflex teaching and learning and making as a pedagogical approach for inclusive education. Her current research is investigating AI literacy and ethics in education.
Leimomi Bong
Creative Technologist, Purple Maiʻa Foundation
Leimomi is a creative technologist and systems steward who moves between technology and culture. Her full-stack practice is guided by protocols of design as dialogue and architecture as care. Before entering tech, she spent nearly a decade as COO of the record label Aloha Got Soul. In 2022, she shifted from storytelling to software engineering through Ada Developers Academy, and joined Purple Maiʻa Foundation as a developer in 2023. She continues to weave mele as a DJ host on Hawai‘i Public Radio. Born and raised in Kealakekua, Leimomi lives and codes in Kaʻākaukukui.
Leimomi Bong
Creative Technologist, Purple Maiʻa Foundation
Leimomi is a creative technologist and systems steward who moves between technology and culture. Her full-stack practice is guided by protocols of design as dialogue and architecture as care. Before entering tech, she spent nearly a decade as COO of the record label Aloha Got Soul. In 2022, she shifted from storytelling to software engineering through Ada Developers Academy, and joined Purple Maiʻa Foundation as a developer in 2023. She continues to weave mele as a DJ host on Hawai‘i Public Radio. Born and raised in Kealakekua, Leimomi lives and codes in Kaʻākaukukui.
Leimomi Bong
Creative Technologist, Purple Maiʻa Foundation
Leimomi is a creative technologist and systems steward who moves between technology and culture. Her full-stack practice is guided by protocols of design as dialogue and architecture as care. Before entering tech, she spent nearly a decade as COO of the record label Aloha Got Soul. In 2022, she shifted from storytelling to software engineering through Ada Developers Academy, and joined Purple Maiʻa Foundation as a developer in 2023. She continues to weave mele as a DJ host on Hawai‘i Public Radio. Born and raised in Kealakekua, Leimomi lives and codes in Kaʻākaukukui.
Makana Waikiki
Director of Marketing + Digital Creator, Purple Maiʻa
SESSION: Connecting to Place: Bridging Community, Culture, and Practice in Hawaiʻi
Makana Waikiki is a Native Hawaiian leader, marketer, and storyteller dedicated to uplifting Indigenous voices. With expertise in branding, community engagement, and digital storytelling, she helps nonprofits and mission-driven organizations connect authentically. She envisions a future where Indigenous perspectives shape global conversations and inspire meaningful change.
Makana Waikiki
Director of Marketing + Digital Creator, Purple Maiʻa
SESSION: Connecting to Place: Bridging Community, Culture, and Practice in Hawaiʻi
Makana Waikiki is a Native Hawaiian leader, marketer, and storyteller dedicated to uplifting Indigenous voices. With expertise in branding, community engagement, and digital storytelling, she helps nonprofits and mission-driven organizations connect authentically. She envisions a future where Indigenous perspectives shape global conversations and inspire meaningful change.
Makana Waikiki
Director of Marketing + Digital Creator, Purple Maiʻa
SESSION: Connecting to Place: Bridging Community, Culture, and Practice in Hawaiʻi
Makana Waikiki is a Native Hawaiian leader, marketer, and storyteller dedicated to uplifting Indigenous voices. With expertise in branding, community engagement, and digital storytelling, she helps nonprofits and mission-driven organizations connect authentically. She envisions a future where Indigenous perspectives shape global conversations and inspire meaningful change.
Michelle Tran
UX/UI Designer, Pi'iku Co. Alum
SESSIONS: State of UX in Hawai'i & Impossible to Ignore: Expanding Your Luck for Design Opportunities
Community, connection, and growth fuel my work as a UX/UI designer at eWorld here on O’ahu, Hawaiʻi! Recently graduated from Pomona College, I love helping design newcomers find their way, passing on the support I received from the Piʻikū Co. not so long ago. Outside of design, I love experimenting with baking recipes, surfing to catch sunset, and watching the latest love reality tv series.
Michelle Tran
UX/UI Designer, Pi'iku Co. Alum
SESSIONS: State of UX in Hawai'i & Impossible to Ignore: Expanding Your Luck for Design Opportunities
Community, connection, and growth fuel my work as a UX/UI designer at eWorld here on O’ahu, Hawaiʻi! Recently graduated from Pomona College, I love helping design newcomers find their way, passing on the support I received from the Piʻikū Co. not so long ago. Outside of design, I love experimenting with baking recipes, surfing to catch sunset, and watching the latest love reality tv series.
Michelle Tran
UX/UI Designer, Pi'iku Co. Alum
SESSIONS: State of UX in Hawai'i & Impossible to Ignore: Expanding Your Luck for Design Opportunities
Community, connection, and growth fuel my work as a UX/UI designer at eWorld here on O’ahu, Hawaiʻi! Recently graduated from Pomona College, I love helping design newcomers find their way, passing on the support I received from the Piʻikū Co. not so long ago. Outside of design, I love experimenting with baking recipes, surfing to catch sunset, and watching the latest love reality tv series.
Pōhaikealoha Panoke
Managing Director of Purple Prize, Purple Maiʻa Foundation
SESSION: Designing with ʻĀina: Place-Based Design from an ʻŌiwi Perspective
Pōhai is the Managing Director of Purple Prize at Purple Maiʻa Foundation, and a Storytelling Instructor in their Digital Creators program. With a background in creative media, business administration, and tech, Pōhai considers herself first and foremost an indigenous storyteller and secondly a nexus–connecting passionate people with project resources. Whether coaching community members through solutions design or designing interactive story experiences, Pōhai strives to bridge ancestral wisdom with modern day issues and contexts. Born and raised in Mākaha, Pōhai now lives and designs between Waiʻanae and Waikīkī.
Pōhaikealoha Panoke
Managing Director of Purple Prize, Purple Maiʻa Foundation
SESSION: Designing with ʻĀina: Place-Based Design from an ʻŌiwi Perspective
Pōhai is the Managing Director of Purple Prize at Purple Maiʻa Foundation, and a Storytelling Instructor in their Digital Creators program. With a background in creative media, business administration, and tech, Pōhai considers herself first and foremost an indigenous storyteller and secondly a nexus–connecting passionate people with project resources. Whether coaching community members through solutions design or designing interactive story experiences, Pōhai strives to bridge ancestral wisdom with modern day issues and contexts. Born and raised in Mākaha, Pōhai now lives and designs between Waiʻanae and Waikīkī.
Pōhaikealoha Panoke
Managing Director of Purple Prize, Purple Maiʻa Foundation
SESSION: Designing with ʻĀina: Place-Based Design from an ʻŌiwi Perspective
Pōhai is the Managing Director of Purple Prize at Purple Maiʻa Foundation, and a Storytelling Instructor in their Digital Creators program. With a background in creative media, business administration, and tech, Pōhai considers herself first and foremost an indigenous storyteller and secondly a nexus–connecting passionate people with project resources. Whether coaching community members through solutions design or designing interactive story experiences, Pōhai strives to bridge ancestral wisdom with modern day issues and contexts. Born and raised in Mākaha, Pōhai now lives and designs between Waiʻanae and Waikīkī.
Romyn Kim Sabatchi
SESSION: Listening with Aloha: Designing Research That Feeds the People Who Feed Us
Romyn Kim Sabatchi (she/her) is an Igorot/Filipina-Chinese American actor, community leader, and educator passionate about telling stories that inspire empathy, reflection, and action. She currently lives in Mōʻiliʻili, Honolulu, O’ahu, Hawaiʻi. Born and raised in Encanto, San Diego, California, she carries with her the rich traditions of her Igorot heritage (indigenous mountain people of the Philippines). Her community roots have shaped her artistry and her career path, fueling a commitment to uplifting underrepresented voices.
Romyn Kim Sabatchi
SESSION: Listening with Aloha: Designing Research That Feeds the People Who Feed Us
Romyn Kim Sabatchi (she/her) is an Igorot/Filipina-Chinese American actor, community leader, and educator passionate about telling stories that inspire empathy, reflection, and action. She currently lives in Mōʻiliʻili, Honolulu, O’ahu, Hawaiʻi. Born and raised in Encanto, San Diego, California, she carries with her the rich traditions of her Igorot heritage (indigenous mountain people of the Philippines). Her community roots have shaped her artistry and her career path, fueling a commitment to uplifting underrepresented voices.
Romyn Kim Sabatchi
SESSION: Listening with Aloha: Designing Research That Feeds the People Who Feed Us
Romyn Kim Sabatchi (she/her) is an Igorot/Filipina-Chinese American actor, community leader, and educator passionate about telling stories that inspire empathy, reflection, and action. She currently lives in Mōʻiliʻili, Honolulu, O’ahu, Hawaiʻi. Born and raised in Encanto, San Diego, California, she carries with her the rich traditions of her Igorot heritage (indigenous mountain people of the Philippines). Her community roots have shaped her artistry and her career path, fueling a commitment to uplifting underrepresented voices.
Sage Suzuki
Jr. Software Engineer, Pi'iku Co. Alum
SESSION: Built By Us: Why Local Talent Should Design Local Tech- A Zippy’s Case Study
Sage Suzuki is a Hawaii-based full-stack developer and product builder who thrives on turning bold ideas into real products. Blending design and engineering, Sage has built everything from mobile apps to cloud systems, with a focus on creating innovative tools that help people connect, learn, and create.
Sage Suzuki
Jr. Software Engineer, Pi'iku Co. Alum
SESSION: Built By Us: Why Local Talent Should Design Local Tech- A Zippy’s Case Study
Sage Suzuki is a Hawaii-based full-stack developer and product builder who thrives on turning bold ideas into real products. Blending design and engineering, Sage has built everything from mobile apps to cloud systems, with a focus on creating innovative tools that help people connect, learn, and create.
Sage Suzuki
Jr. Software Engineer, Pi'iku Co. Alum
SESSION: Built By Us: Why Local Talent Should Design Local Tech- A Zippy’s Case Study
Sage Suzuki is a Hawaii-based full-stack developer and product builder who thrives on turning bold ideas into real products. Blending design and engineering, Sage has built everything from mobile apps to cloud systems, with a focus on creating innovative tools that help people connect, learn, and create.
Sean Tangco
Founder, Small Kine Research and Action
SESSION: Listening with Aloha: Designing Research That Feeds the People Who Feed Us
Mahalo for reading my bio! This workshop is a way for me to give back. I was fed by the aloha of people on these islands, and I’ve been learning what it means to listen with care, not just curiosity. I’m here to share what I've been practicing in a way that honors the people and places that feed our collective work.
Sean Tangco
Founder, Small Kine Research and Action
SESSION: Listening with Aloha: Designing Research That Feeds the People Who Feed Us
Mahalo for reading my bio! This workshop is a way for me to give back. I was fed by the aloha of people on these islands, and I’ve been learning what it means to listen with care, not just curiosity. I’m here to share what I've been practicing in a way that honors the people and places that feed our collective work.
Sean Tangco
Founder, Small Kine Research and Action
SESSION: Listening with Aloha: Designing Research That Feeds the People Who Feed Us
Mahalo for reading my bio! This workshop is a way for me to give back. I was fed by the aloha of people on these islands, and I’ve been learning what it means to listen with care, not just curiosity. I’m here to share what I've been practicing in a way that honors the people and places that feed our collective work.
Taryn Fukuji
Product Designer, Piʻikū Co. Alum
SESSION: Built By Us: Why Local Talent Should Design Local Tech- A Zippy’s Case Study
Born and raised on Oahu, Taryn is a Product Designer rooted in creating digital experiences that reflect and serve local communities. She recently completed a Product Design internship with Piʻikū, where she co-led the redesign of Zippy's online ordering system. Now taking on freelance projects, she continues to refine her craft while uplifting local designers as Events Manager for UXHI, helping to organize events that bring people together and support the growth of UX in Hawaiʻi.
Taryn Fukuji
Product Designer, Piʻikū Co. Alum
SESSION: Built By Us: Why Local Talent Should Design Local Tech- A Zippy’s Case Study
Born and raised on Oahu, Taryn is a Product Designer rooted in creating digital experiences that reflect and serve local communities. She recently completed a Product Design internship with Piʻikū, where she co-led the redesign of Zippy's online ordering system. Now taking on freelance projects, she continues to refine her craft while uplifting local designers as Events Manager for UXHI, helping to organize events that bring people together and support the growth of UX in Hawaiʻi.
Taryn Fukuji
Product Designer, Piʻikū Co. Alum
SESSION: Built By Us: Why Local Talent Should Design Local Tech- A Zippy’s Case Study
Born and raised on Oahu, Taryn is a Product Designer rooted in creating digital experiences that reflect and serve local communities. She recently completed a Product Design internship with Piʻikū, where she co-led the redesign of Zippy's online ordering system. Now taking on freelance projects, she continues to refine her craft while uplifting local designers as Events Manager for UXHI, helping to organize events that bring people together and support the growth of UX in Hawaiʻi.
Tre Zamora
Program and Initiatives Manager, Mōhala Department, Purple Maiʻa Foundation
SESSION: Designing with ʻĀina: Place-Based Design from an ʻŌiwi Perspective
Tre Zamora is a Cultural Design Strategist and Multidisciplinary Designer from Oʻahu and serves as Program and Initiatives Manager of the Mōhala Department at Purple Maiʻa Foundation. His work, influenced by Kānaka Maoli identity and Oceania worldviews, encompasses visual identity, multimedia, and UX/UI design. Since 2015, he has blended cultural knowledge with technology to create emotionally engaging, scalable experiences. Born and raised in Kalihi, Zamora now lives and designs in Koʻolaupoko.
Tre Zamora
Program and Initiatives Manager, Mōhala Department, Purple Maiʻa Foundation
SESSION: Designing with ʻĀina: Place-Based Design from an ʻŌiwi Perspective
Tre Zamora is a Cultural Design Strategist and Multidisciplinary Designer from Oʻahu and serves as Program and Initiatives Manager of the Mōhala Department at Purple Maiʻa Foundation. His work, influenced by Kānaka Maoli identity and Oceania worldviews, encompasses visual identity, multimedia, and UX/UI design. Since 2015, he has blended cultural knowledge with technology to create emotionally engaging, scalable experiences. Born and raised in Kalihi, Zamora now lives and designs in Koʻolaupoko.
Tre Zamora
Program and Initiatives Manager, Mōhala Department, Purple Maiʻa Foundation
SESSION: Designing with ʻĀina: Place-Based Design from an ʻŌiwi Perspective
Tre Zamora is a Cultural Design Strategist and Multidisciplinary Designer from Oʻahu and serves as Program and Initiatives Manager of the Mōhala Department at Purple Maiʻa Foundation. His work, influenced by Kānaka Maoli identity and Oceania worldviews, encompasses visual identity, multimedia, and UX/UI design. Since 2015, he has blended cultural knowledge with technology to create emotionally engaging, scalable experiences. Born and raised in Kalihi, Zamora now lives and designs in Koʻolaupoko.
Todd Cullison
Executive Director, Hawai‘i Nature Center
SESSION: Connecting to Place: Bridging Community, Culture, and Practice in Hawaiʻi
Mr. Cullison 25-year career has focused on endangered salmon in Oregon and watershed restoration and environmental education in Hawaii. Since 2019, he has been the Executive Director of Hawai‘i Nature Center. Environmental education and watershed restoration interests rooted in college while working at Washington State University’s Center for Environmental Education.
Todd Cullison
Executive Director, Hawai‘i Nature Center
SESSION: Connecting to Place: Bridging Community, Culture, and Practice in Hawaiʻi
Mr. Cullison 25-year career has focused on endangered salmon in Oregon and watershed restoration and environmental education in Hawaii. Since 2019, he has been the Executive Director of Hawai‘i Nature Center. Environmental education and watershed restoration interests rooted in college while working at Washington State University’s Center for Environmental Education.
Todd Cullison
Executive Director, Hawai‘i Nature Center
SESSION: Connecting to Place: Bridging Community, Culture, and Practice in Hawaiʻi
Mr. Cullison 25-year career has focused on endangered salmon in Oregon and watershed restoration and environmental education in Hawaii. Since 2019, he has been the Executive Director of Hawai‘i Nature Center. Environmental education and watershed restoration interests rooted in college while working at Washington State University’s Center for Environmental Education.
Ululani Oana
Teacher, Waiʻanae Intermediate
SESSION: Connecting to Place: Bridging Community, Culture, and Practice in Hawaiʻi
Dr. Ululani Oana is a Native Hawaiian educator and researcher based in Hawaiʻi, dedicated to supporting culturally responsive and justice-oriented learning. She holds a PhD in Curriculum Studies and Instruction and a Master of Education, with a focus on progressive and place-based pedagogies. Her work centers on integrating Hawaiian knowledge systems, environmental stewardship, and Aloha ʻĀina education into classroom and community learning experiences. She has published on how storytelling and community-based practices can foster student engagement and strengthen their Hawaiian identity.
Ululani Oana
Teacher, Waiʻanae Intermediate
SESSION: Connecting to Place: Bridging Community, Culture, and Practice in Hawaiʻi
Dr. Ululani Oana is a Native Hawaiian educator and researcher based in Hawaiʻi, dedicated to supporting culturally responsive and justice-oriented learning. She holds a PhD in Curriculum Studies and Instruction and a Master of Education, with a focus on progressive and place-based pedagogies. Her work centers on integrating Hawaiian knowledge systems, environmental stewardship, and Aloha ʻĀina education into classroom and community learning experiences. She has published on how storytelling and community-based practices can foster student engagement and strengthen their Hawaiian identity.
Ululani Oana
Teacher, Waiʻanae Intermediate
SESSION: Connecting to Place: Bridging Community, Culture, and Practice in Hawaiʻi
Dr. Ululani Oana is a Native Hawaiian educator and researcher based in Hawaiʻi, dedicated to supporting culturally responsive and justice-oriented learning. She holds a PhD in Curriculum Studies and Instruction and a Master of Education, with a focus on progressive and place-based pedagogies. Her work centers on integrating Hawaiian knowledge systems, environmental stewardship, and Aloha ʻĀina education into classroom and community learning experiences. She has published on how storytelling and community-based practices can foster student engagement and strengthen their Hawaiian identity.
Vicky Vo
Experience Design, Machine Intelligence New Technology, Adobe Firefly, Adobe
Vicky Vo is an Experience Designer at Adobe, currently working on Adobe Firefly, focusing on AI and digital imaging workflows and experiences. With a background in UX for drawing and painting tools, Vicky is passionate about empowering creativity through technology. Vicky finds joy in nature, art, and a good cup of coffee.
Vicky Vo
Experience Design, Machine Intelligence New Technology, Adobe Firefly, Adobe
Vicky Vo is an Experience Designer at Adobe, currently working on Adobe Firefly, focusing on AI and digital imaging workflows and experiences. With a background in UX for drawing and painting tools, Vicky is passionate about empowering creativity through technology. Vicky finds joy in nature, art, and a good cup of coffee.
Vicky Vo
Experience Design, Machine Intelligence New Technology, Adobe Firefly, Adobe
Vicky Vo is an Experience Designer at Adobe, currently working on Adobe Firefly, focusing on AI and digital imaging workflows and experiences. With a background in UX for drawing and painting tools, Vicky is passionate about empowering creativity through technology. Vicky finds joy in nature, art, and a good cup of coffee.
Yan Vishnepolsky
Freelance Human Experience Researcher and Founder, Segment International, ProductPartner.AI, Human-Centered AI School
A four-time UX entrepreneur including: two UX agencies, a UX AI school, and a chatbot for children. UX AI teacher. Mixed-methods human experience researcher, with a focus on AI. Service Designer. Podcast host of Human-Centered AI.
Yan Vishnepolsky
Freelance Human Experience Researcher and Founder, Segment International, ProductPartner.AI, Human-Centered AI School
A four-time UX entrepreneur including: two UX agencies, a UX AI school, and a chatbot for children. UX AI teacher. Mixed-methods human experience researcher, with a focus on AI. Service Designer. Podcast host of Human-Centered AI.
Yan Vishnepolsky
Freelance Human Experience Researcher and Founder, Segment International, ProductPartner.AI, Human-Centered AI School
A four-time UX entrepreneur including: two UX agencies, a UX AI school, and a chatbot for children. UX AI teacher. Mixed-methods human experience researcher, with a focus on AI. Service Designer. Podcast host of Human-Centered AI.
Zachary Pilien
Agri-Cultural Data Scientist, Makaliʻi Metrics
SESSION: Designing with ʻĀina: Place-Based Design from an ʻŌiwi Perspective
Having spent years waist-deep in soil growing kalo, Zack has grown an understanding of building relationship with ʻāina and sharing that relationship with volunteers and guests. He now works with Makaliʻi Metrics, Hawaiʻi’s only soil nutrient analysis lab, to support the ancestral knowledge with scientific soil data and to communicate that data in a way that is grounded and respectful of place and the experiences of those who care for the ʻāina. Born and raised in Kāneʻohe 96744, Zack now lives and operates in Kāneʻohe 96744.
Zachary Pilien
Agri-Cultural Data Scientist, Makaliʻi Metrics
SESSION: Designing with ʻĀina: Place-Based Design from an ʻŌiwi Perspective
Having spent years waist-deep in soil growing kalo, Zack has grown an understanding of building relationship with ʻāina and sharing that relationship with volunteers and guests. He now works with Makaliʻi Metrics, Hawaiʻi’s only soil nutrient analysis lab, to support the ancestral knowledge with scientific soil data and to communicate that data in a way that is grounded and respectful of place and the experiences of those who care for the ʻāina. Born and raised in Kāneʻohe 96744, Zack now lives and operates in Kāneʻohe 96744.
Zachary Pilien
Agri-Cultural Data Scientist, Makaliʻi Metrics
SESSION: Designing with ʻĀina: Place-Based Design from an ʻŌiwi Perspective
Having spent years waist-deep in soil growing kalo, Zack has grown an understanding of building relationship with ʻāina and sharing that relationship with volunteers and guests. He now works with Makaliʻi Metrics, Hawaiʻi’s only soil nutrient analysis lab, to support the ancestral knowledge with scientific soil data and to communicate that data in a way that is grounded and respectful of place and the experiences of those who care for the ʻāina. Born and raised in Kāneʻohe 96744, Zack now lives and operates in Kāneʻohe 96744.