Leadership

Aloha nui kākou,

Hilo has always been a beacon of culture, history, and resilience. Our unique blend of traditions and forward-thinking leaders has enabled us to overcome challenges and embrace opportunities, making Hilo a dynamic community.

We are a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of many cultures, but it is the spirit of pilina, or relationship-building, that truly defines us. I am reminded of the remarkable legacy left by one of Hawaiʻi’s greatest change-makers, King Kalākaua.

In 1881, King Kalākaua embarked on a journey that would forever alter the course of Hawaiʻi’s history. As the first head of state to circumnavigate the globe, he sought to build relationships with nations far and wide. His mission was clear: to find laborers, increase the population of Hawaiʻi, and stimulate our industries. Among his very first stops was Japan, where he was graciously hosted by Emperor Meiji and signed a treaty with the Japanese government. This pivotal moment sparked a wave of Japanese immigration to Hawaiʻi, planting the seeds of a vibrant and enduring community here in East Hawaiʻi.

King Kalākaua’s journey was driven by a deep understanding of the power of connection, collaboration, and mutual respect. These values are the very essence of what the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Hawaiʻi stands for today. Our commitment to “Okage Sama De” – I am who I am because of you – echoes King Kalākaua’s vision of a community strengthened by its relationships. He knew that the prosperity of Hawaiʻi depended on building bridges across oceans and cultures, much like our chamber believes in the importance of forging strong ties within and beyond our local community.

Kalākaua’s efforts to find laborers and increase the population of Hawaiʻi were aimed at creating a diverse and dynamic society. Similarly, we are dedicated to fostering a sustainable economic environment where local businesses can thrive, providing meaningful jobs, and cultivating a healthy, vibrant Hawaiʻi Island. Our value of “Kahiau” – giving without expecting anything in return – set us apart and guides our every action, much like Kalākaua’s initiatives were rooted in the principles of generosity and communal growth.

As we look to the future, we aim to make East Hawaiʻi a foundation from which business innovation can thrive. By building relationships, trust, and loyalty within our community, we can achieve remarkable things. We will continue to work closely with other chambers and organizations on Hawaiʻi Island, and strengthen our deep ties with our sister chamber in Japan, the Higashi-Hiroshima Chamber of Commerce & Industry. In doing so, we honor Kalākaua’s legacy of global outreach and cultural exchange, recognizing that our strength lies in the connections we build and the collaborations we nurture.

naʻu me ka ʻoiaʻiʻo,

na Kaʻiu Kimura
President, 2024-2025
Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Hawaiʻi

Executive Officers lead JCCIH efforts to advance local business interests. The Board of Directors is the principal governing and policymaking body of the Chamber. The Board is as diverse as its membership and local business community, with more than 30 corporate and small business leaders from various sectors.