Honolulu City Council celebrates Poʻokela Fellows class of 2026

The Honolulu City Council honored the Poʻokela Fellows class of 2026, recognizing the city internship program for creating pathways into public service and naming several graduating fellows.

Chair Waters introduced the awards and said the Poʻokela Fellows program — launched in 2008 and modeled in part on the White House Fellows program — gives college students practical experience across city departments. Vice Chair Angela Tupelo described the program’s intent to prepare future civic leaders and said roughly 370 students have completed the program since its inception, with about 30 former fellows now working for the city.

Members called several graduates by name, including Eric Aganon, Taylor Allegao, Harley Wong, Evia Boni, Mia Umeda, Matthew Aviento, Jerrick Ndia, Carly Sugihara, Noah Sasaki, Nadel Espirito, Samantha Winto, Paulo Robles, Byron Serino Soriano and Isabella Velasteros. Council members emphasized mentorship and career development, and several members shared short alumni success stories.

The recognition was ceremonial; no formal policy or funding action was recorded. Council members thanked participants and encouraged continued engagement with the program.