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 graduate of Grand Oaks High School, scholarship recipient Kalei will move on to attend Brigham Young University to study human development. Here is a word from Kalei:
“Aloha!
My name is Kalei Sproat and I am honored to be a 2025 recipient of the Paubox Kahikina STEM scholarship! I was born and raised in Houston, Texas and graduated from Grand Oaks High school in 2021. Due to a leave I took to serve a mission for my church, I am currently a junior at Brigham Young University and am studying Human Development. It is my ultimate dream to become an Occupational Therapist and move back to serve our lahui.
As a mainland Hawaiian, I’ve had different experiences than our Hawaiians on island. Yet, I can say with confidence that I’ve been heavily influenced by my cultures leading to who I am today and my passions. Travel has been a key part of my life, and it is actually what brought my family to settle in Houston. Through airline employment, my family and I have been able to visit our friends and family in Hawai’i and Japan throughout my life. Growing up with the ability to stay closely connected to my roots despite the physical distance from these lands has been a huge blessing.
In addition to my cultural roots, I was able to travel to many other countries. With each country that I visit, I come back feeling different with my perspective shifted, deepening my understanding of the world.
Some dear family friends we’ve made in Houston has also been a huge influence in my life. Many of them are leaders in their community, and it is from many of them that I’ve learned the importance of helping others by using what you’ve been given. They also have taught me the value of lifting others by empowering them to become self-reliant.
It is all these influences and experiences that has led to my interest in Occupational Therapy. A profession which allows me to live and share my cultural values, lessons I’ve learned throughout my life, while being hands-on in helping others become more independent in their lives. It would mean everything to me to return home and serve our people.
I am especially grateful for the support of the Paubox Kahikina STEM scholarship as it provides me with not only financial support, but also cultural hope and connections to aid me in my journey.
Mahalo to Hoala Greevy and the rest of the Paubox Kahikina team for your support. Thank you for following along on my journey.”
Read more: Paubox Kahikina Scholarship Recipient Reflection | Kalei Sproat
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Tshedimoso Makhene
