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 2025 Aiea High School graduate and scholarship recipient, Nohealani Beltran will move on to attend the University of Hawai’i to study for a bachelor’s degree in STEM. Here is a word from Nohealani Beltran:

“Aloha, O Nohealani Ko’u Inoa. I am a proud Native Hawaiian student who graduated from Aiea High School in 2025, pursuing my bachelor’s degree in STEM at the University of Hawai’i at Manoa. I am incredibly blessed and honored to be selected as a recipient of the 2026 Paubox Kahikina Scholarship.

Growing up in Hawai’i has shaped who I am and the person I pray to become. I was raised in a God-fearing family, knowing that a family that prays together stays together. From an early age, I learned how to make the most of every opportunity because we didn’t have much, but we made do with what we had. My experiences growing up have taught me to appreciate what I have and to work hard for every opportunity that comes my way.

Graduating from Aiea High School helped me reach the milestones needed to keep going on my journey. From graduating to entering University, I have carried and will continue to carry the lessons and understanding from my life. My background and my family have motivated me to keep pushing forward, even in rough times. For the bible says, “That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10).

I intend not only to work hard in school but also to do better for my community. I intend to challenge myself to Malama the Aina by volunteering at Kaiser Permanente, joining the HONU Scientist Club, and putting my best foot forward socially and communally. As well as doing fun things for myself, such as intermural volleyball. Knowing that I myself can make a change as a Native Hawaiian is a blessing.

Looking back on my journey, from growing up in Hawai’i, to graduating from Aiea High School, and now pursuing my bachelor’s degree in STEM at UH Manoa, I am reminded of how far I have come and how many people have helped me along the way. Receiving the Paubox Kahikina Scholarship is an incredible financial blessing and a reminder that others believe in my potential and the future I am working toward. I am truly grateful for this opportunity and for the support, encouragement, and belief that the scholarship committee has placed in me. Mahalo Nui loa to Paubox, the scholarship committee, and everyone who makes this opportunity possible. I will use and carry this support with me throughout my college and life journey and hope to one day give back to my ‘ohana and Hawai’i in the same spirit of generosity that has been shown to me. I am truly blessed. Mahalo Ke Akua and Mahalo for believing in me and investing in my future.”

Read more: Paubox Kahikina Scholarship Recipient Reflection | Nohealani Beltran