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
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