Ke Alaka'i

Ke Alaka'i Ke Alaka'i is BYU-Hawaii's student-run news publication.

In his devotional on Tuesday, Oct. 14, David A. Fonoimoana, BYU–Hawaii’s director of career planning and placement, invi...
10/19/2025

In his devotional on Tuesday, Oct. 14, David A. Fonoimoana, BYU–Hawaii’s director of career planning and placement, invited students to pause from their busy schedules and make room for the Spirit. He said weekly devotionals are not just traditions but deliberate spiritual investments that allow the entire campus to stop, refocus, and invite divine guidance. “When we make space for the Spirit—whether in a devotional, a prayer at work, or a decision we’re unsure about—the Lord gives us direction,” he shared.

Fonoimoana also reminded students that their education is not meant to define them but to refine them. Each student, he said, walks a unique, divinely guided path where God prepares His children in ways not always visible on paper. “The Spirit knows more than we do about people, timing, and outcomes,” he said, encouraging students to trust that the Spirit will lead them to opportunities that align with their gifts.

Julius Benito, a sophomore majoring in music and anthropology from the Philippines, said every devotional seems to speak directly to his current struggles, especially when balancing two demanding majors. “I felt comforted knowing it’s normal to face hardship and that I’m not just here to build my career but to become a lifelong disciple of Jesus Christ,” he said.

Kaleʻa Nelson, an elementary education junior from Waiʻanae, said she learned the importance of being open to personal revelation. Acknowledging her occasional thoughts of pursuing a different career, Nelson said Fonoimoana’s words reminded her that some roads look different to everybody. “Even if I do choose [to become a teacher] now … it could change because of personal revelation, and I love that that is a principle in the gospel. We're able to receive personal revelation for our lives,” she shared.

✍️ Abigail Adams, Rincon Watson and France Valerie Lucillo
📸 Naomi Saenz

Guided by the Hawaiian principle of “mālama ʻāina,” or caring for the land, BYU–Hawaii students gave back at Kahuku Poin...
10/18/2025

Guided by the Hawaiian principle of “mālama ʻāina,” or caring for the land, BYU–Hawaii students gave back at Kahuku Point during the Service Center’s Aloha ʻĀina Service Day on Oct. 11. In partnership with the Surfrider Foundation and the North Shore Community Land Trust, students and community members removed invasive plants, planted native plants and picked up trash along the beach.

According to the North Shore Community Land Trust website, “[Kalaeokaunaʻoa, or Kahuku Point,] is one the few remaining places on Oʻahu with intact coastal strand habitat that includes ʻohai, yellow-faced bees, monk seals, Laysan albatross and nesting sea turtles.” The organization has been working to restore the 39-acre habitat since 2015, the website continues.

“Serving nature helps us survive,” explained Rexzina Kumar, a freshman majoring in computer science from India. Being able to learn more about Hawaii and its culture through service, Kumar said, helped her feel more connected to the island.

Student lead organizer Bailee Atkins said serving the island is a way for her and other students to show appreciation for the place they are living. “Some of us live here, some of us are just visiting. So, I think it's important to recognize where you're staying, know the history … and give back to the land,” shared Atkins, a senior majoring in social work from Alaska.

Kellyena Kaio, a junior from Samoa majoring in hospitality and tourism management and student lead organizer, encouraged students to show their aloha to the land by treating it like family. “[Aloha] doesn't mean just love … It's an action word where we can serve people [and] our ‘āina,” he shared.

✍️ Abigail Adams
📸 Caleb Galotera

The National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), formerly Be the Match, partnered with the BYUH Service Center to host its quar...
10/17/2025

The National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), formerly Be the Match, partnered with the BYUH Service Center to host its quarterly Bone Marrow Drive on Oct. 15–16. The two-day event, held at the Health Center with the Health Advocates Club on the first day and at Aloha Plaza with the Filipino Club on the latter, invited students to register as potential donors through a quick health survey and cheek swab—all in just three minutes. Participants will then be contacted if they are matched with a recipient.

NMDP Hawaii contact Shane Jonah said the initiative helps find matches for patients with rare blood diseases like leukemia, lymphoma and sickle cell anemia. “About 70% of people can’t find a match within their families. That’s when they turn to NMDP,” she said.

Jonah explained Hawaii’s diverse population makes it both challenging and crucial in matching donors. “We’re one of the hardest populations to match because of our mixed backgrounds,” she said. “That also makes Hawaii the largest and most diverse registry in the world—so we’re often the first place people look.” She encouraged students to register, noting that college-age donors play a vital role in saving lives. “Recipients’ bodies respond best to donations from people ages 18 to 35,” she said.

Jonah said there are now two donation methods: non-surgical peripheral blood stem cell collection, used by 90% of donors, and surgical bone marrow procedures for the remaining 10%.

That clarification reassured Andrew Kearly, a freshman biology major from Washington, D.C. “It was comforting to know I wouldn’t have to go through surgery if they found a match.” He said he registered after imagining himself praying for a donor. “Maybe there’s someone out there who needs me—maybe I’m their match.” Calling the process a no-brainer, he added that it’s a simple way to change someone’s life.

Angela Caburnay, a senior in hospitality and tourism management from the Philippines and the Filipino Club president, said joining the event reflects the Filipino value of bayanihan—the spirit of unity and helping others. “We don’t always need to give money—our time and effort are already meaningful.”

✍️ Jessika Santoso
📸Hiroki Konno

Through songs and dances, the Hoʻolōkahi Chamber Choir and Seasider Singers sought to bring a sense of home to everyone ...
10/17/2025

Through songs and dances, the Hoʻolōkahi Chamber Choir and Seasider Singers sought to bring a sense of home to everyone in attendance during their recital, “A Celebration of Home,” on Wednesday, Oct. 15.

The collaborating choirs treated the audience to a cultural blend of 11 songs sung in nine languages. Each song demonstrated its cultural uniqueness and optimistically encouraged students to look for home here on the island. Beside the stage, a long display table featured personal artifacts students had brought from their own homes, adding a visual reminder of what “home” means to each of them.

Summarizing the concert, Dr. Erica Glenn, the choir conductor and an assistant professor of the Faculty of Culture, Language & Performing Arts, expressed the aim of the presentation was to celebrate the cultures of BYUH students. “I wanted to celebrate the cultures of the many world regions that our students call ‘home,’” she said. The event emphasized the diverse cultural make-up of BYUH and brought a slice of home to everyone in attendance.

Timothy Samad, a senior majoring in business from Indonesia, reflected on how his experience participating in the choir was enhanced by everyone that came out to share the moment. “What makes me more happy is that I'm with a sea of people. I'm not by myself so we're not nervous. We're all in this together,” he remarked. Samad echoed the popular opinion among both choir members and spectators that the performance was much more than a melody with some lyrics, but was a union of the BYUHi family.

Hyrum Gonzaga, a sophomore studying business management from the Philippines, commented on the beauty and fluidity of each song, despite many having been performed in different languages. “I enjoy when they sing songs, and they're not in English. I appreciate how they sing so naturally and beautifully,” he said. “It’s really good, how they sing the songs and how it feels to us,” he later added.

✍️ Rincon Watson
📸 Caleb Galotera

During the BYU Law Forum on October 10, BYU–Hawaii students discovered how the study of law reaches far beyond the court...
10/15/2025

During the BYU Law Forum on October 10, BYU–Hawaii students discovered how the study of law reaches far beyond the courtroom, influencing daily life and community leadership. Featuring Dean David Moore of the J. Reuben Clark Law School and legal professional Amy Larson, the forum underscored studying law extends beyond preparing for a courtroom career—it is a pathway for those who aspire to create meaningful change in their communities, they said.

Dean Moore opened the session with a statement: “Law touches every aspect of our lives. You can be involved in that process.” He explained that legal principles extend far beyond legislation and courtrooms—they influence how societies operate, how communities make decisions, and even how individuals interact daily.

For BYUH Prelaw students, Moore’s message redefined their perception of what it means to study law. “It reminded me that reading law is not merely reading rules but reading the frameworks that define people’s behavior and relationships,” a student reflected. His perspective underscored that understanding the law is central to understanding how human interactions and institution's function, the student said.

Amy Larson followed by emphasizing the diversity of opportunities that a law degree can offer. “The law degree provides maximum flexibility,” she said. “It opens so many doors and teaches you how to think like a lawyer—to approach problems systematically, weigh evidence, and reason logically.”

Larson’s remarks resonated especially with students who had previously viewed law as a narrow or highly specialized career path, said Eric Jensen, a professor of Law at BYU. Jensen also said that the ability to “think like a lawyer” is a valuable skill in various professions, from government and business to nonprofit work and public service.

The speakers encouraged students to see law not only as a discipline but as a calling to serve others. They emphasized that legal education equips individuals to promote fairness, protect rights, and shape systems that uphold justice.

✍️ John Andrew Quizana
📸 Haley Cowan

To pave career paths for about 23% of BYU–Hawaii’s student population, Career Services invited industry leaders from the...
10/14/2025

To pave career paths for about 23% of BYU–Hawaii’s student population, Career Services invited industry leaders from the Philippines for the “Asia Pacific Career Conference: Philippines Edition” held Oct. 8-10. On Oct. 9, Filipino students sat with representatives from a variety of firms—consulting, manufacturing, outsourcing, hospitality and healthcare—to network and evaluate available options after graduation. “This event gave me hope that what we’re learning here actually has a place in the Philippines,” shared Ganella Lapay, a sophomore in accounting and business finance from the Philippines.

Olivier Aznar, vice chairman and deputy managing partner of P&A Grant Thornton, said his company’s participation in the conference is rooted in the desire to advocate for young Filipino professionals worldwide. “P&A Grant Thornton is part of a global network, so we want our people to be more connected. We assist them and make sure the values and quality we have in our local practice extend to different countries,” he shared.

Gene Cymmer Ramirez, a senior in computer science from the Philippines, said the event offered a glimpse of the changes currently happening in the Filipino corporate world. “The Philippine job market today does feel more inviting and accommodating. You can see that they genuinely valued everyone who was interested in what they had to offer,” he shared.

Both Lapay and Ramirez expressed their appreciation for the employers’ genuine interest in answering students’ inquiries. “They didn’t just talk about job titles; they talked about people and the attitude they look for,” shared Lapay, noting how the companies emphasized integrity, purpose and giving back. “Hearing that made me think about what kind of accountant I want to become.”

“I think this is a great start for our diverse student body,” said Albert Vaha‘i, a regional peer counselor from Career Services and a Tongan senior in business management with a supply chain, operations and analytics concentration. Regional career fairs, he noted, attract more students because they offer more focused opportunities.

✍️ Samantha Faith Satorre
📸 Naomi Saenz, Haley Cowan

Elder Wong, joined by guests from visiting companies, opened the fireside with a question-and-answer session addressing ...
10/13/2025

Elder Wong, joined by guests from visiting companies, opened the fireside with a question-and-answer session addressing students’ concerns about employment, returning to the Philippines, and finding purpose through service. The Oct. 8 event was held as part of the Asia Pacific Career Conference: Philippines Edition.

One guest emphasized that employers value integrity and character more than grades. Echoing that message, Elder Wong said, “Education matters—but eventually, it won’t. It’s more about who you are becoming.”

Reflecting on his time as a BYUH student, Elder Wong said he was determined to keep his scholarship by maintaining high grades while honoring his commitment not to study on Sundays. “There was a time I had a big exam on Monday and was debating whether to study on Sunday,” he said. “I offered heartfelt prayers, went to bed early, woke up Monday morning to review—and I passed.”

Elder Wong counseled students to pursue education with purpose and gratitude. “If you graduate from BYUH, use the resources to bless others and be self-reliant,” he said, reminding them not to lose sight of their faith after graduation. “Many people get good jobs, earn more money and forget about God.”

Elder Wong encouraged students to develop a desire to serve in their communities after returning home. “Serving others is difficult, but God will bless you as you do so."

Joanne Eyo, a junior in accounting from the Philippines, said the fireside reminded her of her purpose and strengthened her faith. “It’s not just about getting an education,” she said. “We’ve been chosen to come here for a reason. This school meets both our secular and spiritual needs so we can apply what we’ve learned in our work, callings and communities. We just need to trust Christ more, as Elder Wong said.”

Liahona Billones, a junior majoring in fine arts from the Philippines, said Elder Wong’s message eased her anxiety about life after graduation. “My husband and I have been worried about what comes next,” she said. “When he talked about the danger of asking, ‘What’s in it for me?’ I realized I should focus more on what I can give.”

✍️ Myco Marcaida
📸 Caleb Galotera

10/10/2025

Feeling stressed? Alone? Burnt out?

We got the right thing for you! Launched on October 8, Women Services & Resources’ Self-Care Challenge is a month-long course intended to boost BYUH students’ well-being through a series of various self-care activities.

So, what are you waiting for? Tune in through their social media account, , and join now!

✍️ France Valerie Lucillo
🎥 Caleb Galotera

Sitting in a circle on two woven mats, BYU–Hawaii students came together for an evening of “talanoa,” or dialogue, on We...
10/07/2025

Sitting in a circle on two woven mats, BYU–Hawaii students came together for an evening of “talanoa,” or dialogue, on Wednesday, Oct. 1, in the Heber J. Grant Building. The gathering was hosted by the Religious Freedom and Human Dignity Initiative (RFHD) and the David O. McKay Center for Intercultural Understanding.

Isireli Vuetibau, a senior from Fiji majoring in intercultural peacebuilding and Pacific studies, explained, “In most Pacific gatherings, you’ll see a mat brought out and spread on the floor. This symbolizes neutrality for everyone participating. It doesn’t matter who you are, what your position is, or whatever your title may be. When we sit on the mat, we share that space equally.” Using these spaces to have meaningful conversations is how good global citizens are built, he continued.

Reflecting on the life of President Russell M. Nelson, Aaron Shumway, RFHD faculty advisor and Religious Education director, said President Nelson exemplified the importance of having honest conversations when he connected with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. “One of the things we learn from that is it’s all of our responsibilities to be good global citizens to our fellow brothers and sisters, especially when it comes to dismantling racism or any type of prejudice,” he expressed.

Throughout the talanoa, students discussed the importance of establishing connections with people from different cultures and beliefs. Samantha Rasmussen, a senior majoring in political science from California, said, “There’s a lot of talk about why build the bridge at all—why can’t we all just stay separate? You go to your country, I’ll stay in mine.” However, she said having the opportunity to build relationships with people from many different countries at BYUH makes students more empathetic towards the conflicts occurring around the world. “When we can no longer distance ourselves from the conflict, we feel the need to act, to make sure the conflict doesn’t happen again, or at least ease it,” she explained.

✍️ Abigail Adams
📸 Caleb Galotera

The Willes Center for International Entrepreneurship hosted its annual Great Ideas kickoff event on Oct. 1. The center e...
10/06/2025

The Willes Center for International Entrepreneurship hosted its annual Great Ideas kickoff event on Oct. 1. The center encouraged students to submit their business proposals for a chance to win scholarships and gain valuable entrepreneurial skills.

Participants may enter by submitting a one-page idea (Track 1) or a 13-page business plan (Track 2). Competitors will compete for scholarships and prizes, including a $3,000 scholarship for the grand prize winner, $2,500 for second place and $2,000 for third. Consolation prizes of $500 will also be awarded, along with $150 for the People’s Choice winner.

Brooks Benson, Willes Center manager, said he hopes students recognize their potential to change the world through the event. “Ultimately, I want them to become better presenters, better in front of the camera and better in front of important people,” he said. “But I want them to leave with a broader vision of what is possible in their lives.”

After attending the competition last year, Buyan-Ochir “Buyka” Khandsuren, a sophomore business management major from Mongolia, said it inspired him to think of new business ideas and consider joining this year. “I want to introduce my business ideas to the mentors and look forward to the opportunity to working with them closely,” he explained.

Mark Nephi Simene, a senior majoring in computer science, said the event taught him the importance of simplifying solutions when pitching business ideas. “When we think about solutions, we think about complex solutions because we have big and complex problems. But making it simple is one of the best ways to solve that,” he explained.

Simene said he plans to apply this takeaway as he develops an app that connects high school and college students with their respective counseling services. “I’m not doing this alone,” he said. “I have mentors with me through this process.”

✍️ Myco Marcaida
📸 Naomi Saenz

In the Sunday afternoon session, General Conference 2025 concluded with teachings on moral agency and judgment, taking u...
10/06/2025

In the Sunday afternoon session, General Conference 2025 concluded with teachings on moral agency and judgment, taking upon the name of Christ, mercy and healing, discipleship through quiet service, joy in trials, and the centrality of family and temples. Let us all strive to keep these messages close to heart and let them guide the days ahead!

In the Sunday morning session, speakers testified of the power of trials, the calling of modern prophets and missionarie...
10/05/2025

In the Sunday morning session, speakers testified of the power of trials, the calling of modern prophets and missionaries, the redeeming power of Christ, ministering one by one and strengthening faith through divine help.

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The Leader

The Ke Alaka’i is the student-produced website and monthly magazine at BYU–Hawaii. Ke Alaka'i means "The Leader" in the Hawaiian language. Likewise, the magazine's mission correlates with the mission of the university to help students become better learners, leaders and builders of their families, communities, careers and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The magazine is published monthly during the fall, winter and spring semesters.