Letman, Numazawa-Pacanas are 2022 FMPR Scholars

23 Dec Letman, Numazawa-Pacanas are 2022 FMPR Scholars

Fujita & Miura Public Relations (FMPR) announced that Kahealani Numazawa-Pacanas and Kailash Letman have been named the 2022 FMPR Scholar and have each received $1,000 college scholarships.

Kahealani graduated from Waimea High School and is attending the Oregon Institute of Technology as an environmental sciences major.

“Being born and raised in Hawai`i, you learn the importance of treasuring the land that you are given, even more so that land you earn. The `aina has provided for me my entire life and I plan to return that favor by protecting and caring for it in the same way,” said Kahealani. “My parents and siblings have dedicated and sacrificed so much in order for my family to have a better life, and I plan to honor it by creating a strong foundation for the next generations to build off on,” Kahealani continued.

Kailash Letman graduated as the valedictorian of Kaua`i High School and is attending the Wentworth Institute of Technology to study architecture.

“Growing up in a multicultural, bilingual household has shaped my identity and taught me that there is strength in diversity. For example, being able to think and communicate in multiple languages has allowed me to consider how to solve problems in different ways,” said Kailash. “I am excited to study architecture because it is a discipline that weaves creative design and complex problem solving to connect people to their surroundings. Hawaii’s unique environment and distinctive challenges require new approaches to how spaces and resources can be used more sustainably,” Kailash continued.

Both scholars are rooted to Kaua`i and intend to use their newly earned knowledge and skills to benefit Kaua`i.

“We are so proud of these two stellar students who have so much to offer the world,” Jenny Fujita said.

“They will surely bring the aloha spirit to their colleges and through their hearts for service, do important work in the years ahead,” said Joy Miura Koerte.

FMPR Scholars are chosen based on several key criteria: they are Kaua`i or Pennsylvania residents and students who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees; are interested in owning or working for a small business and/or home-based business; engaged in entrepreneurial activities; intend to come home to and pursue their livelihoods in their local communities after undergraduate or graduate school; are engaged in community service and wish to advance their local community after college; have proven intellectual and academic achievements; show integrity of character and an interest in helping others; and have the ability to lead and the motivation to use their talents to the fullest.

Fujita & Miura Public Relations is a full service communications consulting firm located on Kaua`i, Hawai`i and in the Greater Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. Headed by Jenny Fujita and Joy Miura Koerte, FMPR has been providing strategic advice and services to businesses and nonprofit organizations to help them achieve their goals since 2000.