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About the ʻŌʻō Award

Celebrating Excellence in Native Hawaiian Leadership and Service

Since 1977, the Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce (NHCC) has proudly presented the prestigious ʻŌʻō Award to Native Hawaiians who have made significant contributions to the advancement of the Native Hawaiian community.

Over the years, the ʻŌʻō Award has become one of the most coveted honors for Native Hawaiians, serving as a symbol of inspiration for future generations. The ʻŌʻō itself, crafted from precious hardwoods rooted in the ʻāina, represents the values and dedication that each recipient embodies.

Today, the ʻŌʻō serves as NHCC’s emblem of excellence, reflecting each recipient’s firmly rooted values, business acumen, skill, and commitment to service. These qualities are essential for thriving in modern Hawai‘i while preserving ancient traditions and values.

Historically, the ʻŌʻō Award has been celebrated with an in-person gala featuring an elegant dinner and a program dedicated to honoring the achievements and service of the award recipients. This cherished tradition continues to showcase the profound impact of Native Hawaiian leaders on their community and beyond.

Relive the Magic of the 2024 ‘O‘O Award Gala

Step into the unforgettable moments of this year's ‘O‘O Award Gala! Our gallery captures the evening’s highlights, from the elegant ceremony to the joyful celebration of our honorees and community. Join us in celebrating the achievements and aloha spirit of Native Hawaiian leaders. All photos were beautifully captured by Mahina CE Photography

View Gala Gallery

10May2019 O'O Awards-8 copy

Honoring Excellence: Past ʻŌʻō Award Recipients

Discover the remarkable individuals who have been nominated for the prestigious ʻŌʻō Awards, celebrating their outstanding contributions and achievements in our community.

1977 - Kane S. Fernandez 1978 Rondolph Lee

1979 - Joseph Kealoha

1980 - D.G. Andy Anderson

1981 William Kimi

1982 - Fred Trotter

1983 - Kenneth Brown

1984 - John Bellinger

1985 - Aaron Chaney

1986 - Richard Lyman

1987 - Winona Rubin

1988 - Gladys Brandt

1989 - Oswald Stender

1990 - Momi Cazimero

1991 - Senator Daniel K. Akaka

1992

  • Samuel Kamaka
  • Frederick Kamaka

1993 - Dr. Michael Chun

1994 - Haunani Apoliona

1995

  • Irmgard Farden
  • Aluli Elia Long
  • Colette Machado

1996

  • Bernard Kea
  • Charles Kekumano
  • Bruss Keppler

1997

  • James Ahloy 
  • Peter & Rachel Haili 
  • James Haynes 

1998

  • George Newton
  • Patrick Yim 
  • Walter Yim 

1999

  • Herman Lemke David Peters 
  • Kali Watson 

2000

  • Wright Bowman Malia Carver 
  • Douglas Ing 
  • Crystal Rose 

2001

  • Frank Brandt 
  • Sam Choy 

2002

  • Herb Kane 
  • Scott May 

2003

  • Edwin Hulihe’e 
  • Samuel King 

2004

  • Ezra Kanoho 
  • Andrew Poepoe 

2005

  • Thomas Kaulukukui, Jr.
  • Mary Lou Kekuewa 
  • Paulette Kahalepuna 

2006

  • Paige Barber 
  • Vadm. Robert Kihune

2007

  • Genoa Keawe 
  • Clifford Jamile 

2008

  • Peter Apo 
  • Nake’u Awai 

2009

  • Henry Gomes 
  • Ron Jarrett 
  • Brothers Cazimero 

2010

  • Mary Philpotts McGrath Alice Flanders Guild 

2011

  • Dr. Kekuni Blaisdell
  • Dr. Ben Young 
  • Al Souza 

2012

  • Dr. Claire Hughes
  • BG Irwin Cockett 

2013

  • Dee Jay Mailer 
  • Vaughn Vasconcellos 
  • Gov. John D. Waihe’e III

2014

  • Dr. Clayton Chong
  • Dr. Noreen Mokuau 
  • Nainoa Thompson 

2015

  • Warren Kaleialoha Asing
  • Dr. Kalani Brady 
  • Vicky Holt Takamine 

2016

  • Raymond Jardine
  • Ivan Lui Kwan
  • Vorl Veto Baker

2017

  • Dr. Gerard Akaka
  • Herb Lee 
  • Naomi Clarke Losch 

2018

  • Marlen Akau 
  • Jan Dill 
  • Heather Giugni 

2019

  • Elliot Mills 
  • Na Leo Pilimehana 
  • Dr. Angela Pratt 

2020

  • Beadie Kanahele Dawson
  • Melody MacKenzie 
  • Judge Melvin Soong 

2021 ~ No Awards ~ 

2022

  • Dr. Naleen Andrade
  • Marlene Sai 
  • John De Fries 

2023

  • Dr. Diane Paloma 
  • Kahu Kenneth Makuakāne

2024

  • Paula Lynn Kaʻiulani Akana
  • Corbett Aaron Kamoa Kalama
  • Thomas 'Aimoku McClellan