Oct. 19, 2018

Contributed by Ben Balberdi

Haryson Lum can vividly remember the moment he first realized how fortunate he was to be a part of Pauahi’s legacy.

“While at Summer Explorations, we were brought to the chapel to read Pauahi’s will on the engraved panels above the doors,” said Lum, a 2011 graduate of ‘Iolani School. “I realized how fortunate I was to receive such an opportunity, but more importantly, the great kuleana that comes with it to uphold her legacy as beneficiaries.”

Lum went on to receive post-high and career support through the Kamehameha Scholars program as an ‘Iolani senior, as well as participate in the Kāpili ʻŌihana program as a summer intern leading up to his graduation from the University of Oregon with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and marketing in 2015.

“If not for Kamehameha Schools and programs like Ho‘omāka‘ika‘i, K-Scholars and Kāpili, I wouldn’t be where I am today, both personally and professionally,” Lum said.

Now as a professional working in communications at his high school alma mater and an owner of the Kūlia Clothing Company, Lum is paying it forward by giving his time and talent as a mentor to Hawaiian students in the same programs that prepared him for college, career, and life.  

“I give with Pauahi because I am forever grateful for the opportunities that Pauahi has given to me. Now it’s my turn to give back, so future generations can afford the same opportunities I had,” added Lum.