Clement Laukong
Board Member - President
Clement Laukong's life has been shaped by a deep connection to both construction and farming. Born and raised in Waipio Valley, Clement's journey
began at a young age, working in the taro patches of Waipio Valley, where he learned the timeless traditions of farming passed down through generations.
His childhood years were spent cultivating the land, raising taro, and appreciating the intricacies of Hawaiian agriculture. These early experiences
planted the seeds for his lifelong passion for farming and construction, and they laid the foundation for the work he is dedicated to today.
Clement's career took shape in the construction industry starting in 1962, where he quickly gained a reputation as a skilled heavy equipment operator.
He later worked at Moses Akiona Construction Co., but through hard work, perseverance, and a sharp business acumen, he later acquired the company and
took it to new heights. Over the years, Clement became known as a master of all trades. Whether it was opening subdivisions, overseeing water lines,
drainage systems, sewers, masonry, or land development, he did it all with an unmatched dedication to detail and a commitment to quality. His extensive
knowledge of construction, combined with his deep-rooted understanding of farming, has made him uniquely qualified for the project of revitalizing Waipio Valley.
Farming and construction have been intertwined in Clement's life since he was a child. His knowledge of taro farming goes beyond just the basics. He
learned the ancient ways of planting and cultivating taro, intimately understanding the water systems, land management, and cycles that sustain the crops.
In addition to his expertise in taro farming, Clement expanded his knowledge to include aquaponic farming in his spare time, further demonstrating his
versatile approach to agriculture. Through these experiences, he developed a deep respect for the land and the intricate balance required to nurture it.
Clement's work in the valley is driven by a lifelong dream to restore Waipio to its former glory, ensuring that the valley once again becomes a vibrant,
thriving breadbasket for Hawaii. He has seen firsthand the importance of preserving and revitalizing the valley's resources, and his vision goes far beyond
the work of today. When an earthquake blocked the valley's waterways with massive boulders, it threatened to dry up the land. Clement took it upon himself
to address this problem, reversing the damage and restoring the water flow, ensuring the valley's lifeblood was never again at risk.
For Clement, this project is a way to honor his heritage and give back to the land that shaped him. With a lifetime of experience in farming and construction,
he is dedicated to restoring Waipio Valley's agricultural potential and revitalizing its waterways, ensuring it thrives for future generations as a vital source
of food and culture. This is his passion and legacy - to make Waipio the breadbasket of Hawaii once more.
Micah Kalepa
Board Member - Vice President & Treasurer
Micah Kalepa brings a wealth of experience in finance, data analytics, and operations management to the board. With a strong background in economic
analysis and financial strategy, Micah has worked across several industries, including banking, resort management, and food distribution. He is
currently serving as the Enterprise Analytics Manager at Y. Hata & Co., Ltd., Hawaii's largest food distribution company, where he plays a pivotal
role in managing pricing, cost validation, and efficiency improvements across the company's operations.
Micah's journey began at the Bank of Hawaii, where he rapidly advanced through various roles, developing a passion for data integrity and analytics.
His work in mortgage banking, operations analysis, and financial assistance laid a strong foundation for his future endeavors. Later, as the
Assistant Finance Manager at the Four Seasons Resort at Ko Olina, Micah gained valuable experience in budgeting, forecasting, and collaborating with
resort managers to ensure accurate financial operations.
In his current role at Y. Hata & Co., Micah leads projects to improve efficiency and optimize pricing strategies across the islands, directly impacting
the distribution of food. He also collaborates with various departments to implement cost-saving measures and develop solutions for enhancing business performance.
Micah's deep commitment to community service is evident through his volunteer work with organizations like the Hawaii Food Bank, Aloha Harvest,
and Special Olympics Hawaii. His contributions have ranged from leading food distribution efforts to supporting annual charity events and volunteering
as a referee for Special Olympics competitions. Additionally, as the Food and Beverage Lead for the Ko Olina Hawaii race, Micah worked with vendors
to collect donations, supporting both local businesses and community initiatives.
A proud native of Maunalua, Oahu with family ties to Waipio Valley through the Ahpuck and Laukong Ohana's, Micah's passion for revitalizing Hawaii's
agricultural traditions, and dedication to giving back to the land and people of Waipio Valley, historically known as a "Breadbasket for Hawaii"
through the massive amounts of food the valley would provide farmers. His mission is to restore the valley's agricultural potential, providing farmers
with the resources they need to cultivate the land and bring fresh, sustainable Hawaiian foods to the community.
Educational Background:
MBA in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance
Hawaii Pacific University, Honolulu, HI.
Bachelor of Science in Economics, Minor in Business Administration
Western Oregon University, Monmouth, OR
Micah's background in economics, finance, and leadership, combined with his commitment to serving others and revitalizing Hawaii's agricultural
heritage, makes him an invaluable asset to the board.
Brittney-Ann Miller
Board Member - Vice President & Secretary
Brittany-Ann Miller is an accomplished project manager with a strong foundation in construction, financial management, and risk mitigation,
bringing extensive expertise in engineering and project delivery to the board. Her professional background spans significant roles in
both the private sector and nonprofit-related initiatives, underscoring her commitment to community development and sustainability.
Currently serving as a Project Manager at Swinerton Builders, Brittany-Ann leads the Self-Perform Concrete team for the University of Hawaii
Graduate Student Residences project, a high-profile, multi-phase development. She has previously managed large-scale projects such as the
Amazon Distribution Center and the Honolulu Rail Transit Project, where she played a critical role in delivering the first automatic rail
system in the United States. Her experience includes driving project schedules, managing budgets, ensuring quality control, and overseeing
various aspects of construction, from utility relocations to community outreach.
Brittany-Ann's skill set extends beyond construction to financial management, risk mitigation, and strategic planning, making her an invaluable
resource for the nonprofit's board. Her work as an Assistant Coach and Head Coach in various youth sports organizations, as well as her
leadership in building the internship program at Swinerton Builders, further exemplifies her passion for community involvement and mentoring.
A proud native of Maunalua, Oahu with family ties to Waipio Valley through the Ahpuck and Laukong Ohana's, Brittany-Ann's Hawaiian heritage is
a driving force behind her commitment to this nonprofit. With roots in a culture deeply centered on community and sustainability, she feels
a profound connection to the nonprofit's mission. Inspired by the historical significance of Waipio Valley, known as the Valley of the Kings,
Brittany-Ann is dedicated to providing the Hawaii community with sustainable, locally sourced food, ensuring that future generations will have access
to the same resources that shaped her upbringing.
Educational Background:
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Minor in Business
Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Her extensive experience in leadership, her deep cultural ties to Hawaii, and her unwavering commitment to community development make Brittany-Ann
a key contributor to the nonprofit's vision and growth.
Matthew Chun
Board Member
Matthew Chun brings a wealth of experience in engineering and construction, coupled with a strong commitment
to community service, to his role on the board. With a diverse background in electrical engineering and project
management, Matthew has worked across a variety of sectors, contributing to significant infrastructure improvements.
Currently a Project Engineer at Nan Inc. in Hilo, HI, Matthew is involved in the rehabilitation of the Hilo Water Treatment
Facility, a critical project that supports the community's water infrastructure. His previous role at MK Engineers saw him
designing electrical systems for stadiums, ensuring compliance with performance standards, and spearheading energy-efficient
solutions for public spaces. Additionally, his time at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard as a Shift Test Engineer involved
overseeing maintenance projects for Virginia Class Submarines, demonstrating his ability to lead teams and manage complex,
high-stakes work with an emphasis on quality, safety, and efficiency.
Matthew's expertise in engineering and construction, along with his experience in food distribution and processing, makes him
a valuable asset to the board. His problem-solving skills and strategic mindset are complemented by his dedication to serving Hawaii's communities.
A proud native of Hilo with family ties to Waipio Valley through the Loo Ohana, Matthew's deep roots in Hawaiian culture fuel
his passion for the mission of this nonprofit. Inspired by his visit to Tillamook, Oregon, where he witnessed a successful model
of community-based food production, Matthew envisions a similar approach in Hawaii. His dream is to help provide the local
community with fresh, affordable poi, reconnecting Hawaii with its agricultural heritage.
Educational Background:
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI
In addition to his professional work, Matthew founded the Ke 'Alaula Class of 2014 Non-Profit Organization and has volunteered
with groups like Loi Kalo on Oahu and the Leo Lions Club, further demonstrating his commitment to uplifting the community.
Matthew's combination of professional expertise, passion for Hawaii's agricultural potential, and dedication to serving his
community makes him a vital member of our board.