how music can become a lifelong source of creativity and connection,” said Randy Wong, President and CEO at Hawaii Youth Symphony. “The only program of its kind serving Oahu’s west side community, Nānākuli Strings, has doubled in size just this past year thanks to an incredible partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii, and this exciting new collaboration with Lōkahi comes at the perfect time to amplify impact.” This partnership will benefit students enrolled in music classes led by Kau‘ionālani Mead, at the Nānākuli Clubhouse and music classes taught by Abe Lagrimas, Jr. at the Spalding Clubhouse. Fittingly timed, HYS is launching a new Rock Band class led by teacher Jake Lui and an ukulele class taught by Maia Mayeshiro at the Windward Clubhouse, which will benefit from this collaboration. Although your child must be a member of BGCH to be able to join the new music program applications are easy and accessiplay-along tracks at home to continue building their skills beyond club hours. “Music is a powerful catalyst for unity, imagination, and learning, and we’re thrilled to launch this collaboration to expand music education opportunities across Hawai’i,” said Mark Fukunaga, Executive Chair of Servco Pacific Inc., one of Lōkahi’s sponsors. “It brings together all the right elements of technology, cultural relevance, and an investment in our educators to deliver engaging lessons that will significantly benefit the students.” Research has shown that participation in music programs enhances communication and empathy, and this initiative further supports youth in developing emotional and social skills like teamwork, selfexpression and resilience. “Sharing an accessible platform for extended learning with students harmonizes beautifully with our in-person programs at the Clubhouse and our ongoing mission at HYS, helping youth to discover 148 HAWAII PARENT January/February 2026 Photo Courtesy of Lōkahi the Ukulele Collective “Through this joint effort, students from three BGCH Clubhouses will participate in hands-on music lessons”
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