This event celebrates our community leaders, advocates and employers who have dedicated themselves to promoting mental wellness and improving the care of people with mental health challenges through positive and innovative programs and leadership. MHAH Mahalo Award recipients will be recognized in six categories relating to mental health care, advocacy, leadership, and support. In addition to these, MHAH, along with its partner PBS Hawai`i, will also recognize five youth from across the state with a Student Voice Award. These students, who’ve participated in PBS Hawai`i's HIKI NŌ program, will be recognized for their courage in sharing their story.
Mental Health America of Hawai`i is the oldest mental health organization in the state and Hawaii’s leading voice for mental health advocacy, working to increase access to care and reduce discrimination against people living with mental illness.
2025 MENTAL HEALTH MAHALO AWARDEES
Venus Rosete-Medeiros
Outstanding Community Mental Health Leader
Rotary in Hawaii
Outstanding Community Mental Health Leader
Mary Akimo-Luʻuwai
Outstanding Government Leader
Ayada Bonilla
Outstanding Government Leader
Amber Drake
Outstanding Adult Mental Health Consumer Advocate
Kai Chang-Schultz
Outstanding Youth Mental Health Advocate
Goodwill Hawaii
Outstanding Employer
Spirit Horse Ranch
Outstanding Employer
Karin Medigovich
Outstanding Family Advocate
Officer Tiare Perry
Outstanding CIT Leader
2025 STUDENT VOICE AWARDEES
Jazalle Amps
Kaʻu High and Pahala Elementary School
"Poetry"
Kylie Cardenas
H.P. Baldwin High School
"Privileged"
Lily Lawrence
Waikiki Elementary School
"The Riskiest Game"
Emma Roy
H.P. Baldwin High School
"I'm Stuck in the Past"
Jamie Subaru Thompson
H.P. Baldwin High School
"A Letter to My Dad, Father's Day"
Registration closes on May 21, 2025 at 11:00PM.
Self-parking at Ala Moana Hotel is $10.00 with validation, entrance is on Mahukona Street. Valet is $35.00 with validation.