The Paubox Kahikina Scholarship helps Native Hawaiian students pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and Tech in general. Its purpose is to offer financial support and create a strong network for these students. The scholarship makes education more affordable and connects students with professionals, giving them valuable opportunities to learn and grow in their chosen STEM or Tech fields. This scholarship is about more than just money; it's about building a community and empowering Native Hawaiian students to succeed in STEM or Tech careers.
See also: The big ideas behind the Paubox Kahikina Scholarship
As a recent Kaua‘i High School graduate, scholarship recipient Aysha will move on to attend the University of California, Berkeley, to study Civil and Environmental Engineering. Here is a word from Aysha:
“Aloha, my name is Aysha Berry, and I’m incredibly honored to be a 2025 Paubox Kahikina Scholarship recipient. I was born and raised on the island of Kaua‘i, where I graduated as a valedictorian from Kaua‘i High School. I’m now a student at the University of California, Berkeley, currently majoring in Environmental Science, with plans to pursue Civil and Environmental Engineering. I’m also interested in exploring biotechnology, especially how it can support sustainability and community health.
Being both Native Hawaiian and African American, I carry a deep sense of pride and responsibility in my heritage. It’s shaped how I see the world and how I want to impact it. I’m passionate about protecting our environment, especially in Hawai‘i, where marginalized communities often bear the brunt of environmental harm. I also care deeply about representation in STEM. I want young women, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to see themselves in science, engineering, and innovation. Through mentorship, volunteering, and outreach, I hope to build spaces where people feel seen, supported, and empowered.
As a Native Hawaiian woman at UC Berkeley, I’m part of a very small percentage of Pacific Islander students, and an even smaller group identifying specifically as Native Hawaiian. I’m proud to be the first in my family to attend a prestigious university, and I’m determined to be the first among my parents to graduate. This isn’t just a personal milestone, it’s a step forward for my family and my community. I hope it opens doors for others to follow.
The mission of the Paubox Kahikina Scholarship speaks directly to my goals. My future work in environmental science and engineering is about more than just solving technical problems, it’s about uplifting communities that have been overlooked and underserved. Clean air, safe water, and a healthy environment should be a right, not a privilege.
Financially, this scholarship makes a huge difference. Getting into UC Berkeley was a dream come true, but the cost of college is a real challenge. Support like this eases that burden and reminds me that my goals matter, that people believe in what I’m trying to do. I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity. With the support of the Paubox Kahikina scholarship, I’ll keep pushing forward, turning my passion for STEM into real-world impact that promotes sustainability, equity, and hope.
I’d also like to mention that I’m currently a part of the Global Environmental Themed Housing program (GETH) at Berkeley. Through this program, I have been able to meet such wonderful individuals who also share an interest in environmental issues. With the support of this scholarship alongside the new friends I have made, I’m excited to explore my potential at UC Berkeley and in this career.”
Read more: Paubox Kahikina Scholarship Recipient Reflection | Aysha Berry