HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0046.071 2024-2026-P /,�. cou.nct
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Comm, u�1
Aloha!
My name is Erin Samura, and 1 am humbled and honored to testify on behalf of Mr. Wesley Segawa. My
`ohana has deep roots in Hilo, and we've known Mr. Segawa and his family for many years. This longstanding
relationship allows me to offer a deeper understanding of who Mr. Segawa is and what he represents.
In reflecting on the path ahead for our county and community, I am drawn to the profound wisdom of our
ancestors: "I ka wa ma mua, i ka wa ma hope." This powerful 'olelo no'eau reminds us that the lessons of the
past should illuminate our way forward, guiding us with clarity and purpose.
This saying resonates deeply within our cultural heritage as Polynesian voyagers. In 1976, the historic voyage
of Hokule'a to Tahiti revealed an imminent cultural crisis, highlighting that we no longer had navigators who
possessed the ancient navigation skills. The Polynesian Voyaging Society, recognizing this gap, bravely
sought a traditional navigator from outside. They turned to Mau Piailug from Satawal in Micronesia, who
generously shared his knowledge and expertise. Mau guided our voyaging renaissance, being the sole
traditional navigator willing to impart his wisdom to revitalize our cultural practice.
His guidance laid the foundation for a cultural resurgence, a pillar upon which we began to recover our past,
connect with our history, and envision our future.
Through successive administrations, our county has struggled to make significant progress. However, like the
Polynesian Voyaging Society, our council has an opportunity to learn from past experiences and break this
cycle. Embracing change is essential for fostering real growth, encouraging innovation, and ensuring a
sustainable environment for future generations.
Drawing inspiration from the past, Mr. Segawa exemplifies this philosophy through his leadership and work. By
transforming his company into a center of knowledge and innovation, he fosters a blend of traditional wisdom
with modern insights. His dedication to mentoring new generations of engineers and managers not only equips
them for professional success but also empowers them to drive positive change in our community.
Through this blend of past wisdom and future ambition, Mr. Segawa provides a model for overcoming
stagnation. By embracing change, learning from history, and nurturing the talents of future generations, we can
create a vibrant and prosperous future our county and community desperately needs.
Let us remember that by honoring our past, we better equip ourselves to tackle the challenges ahead,
ultimately building a sustainable world for our community now and beyond.
Therefore, 1 strongly urge the County Council to give thoughtful consideration to Mr. Segawa. As a
homegrown, local boy from Kaumana, and the best choice for our community, his confirmation is crucial. A
"YES" vote represents a commitment to the future prosperity of our county and community.
Mahalo!
Comm. OAL - a
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