Puna Tripp, Hā Tonics, wins 2023 Mana Up Pow Wow Pitch

Puna Tripp, Hā Tonics, wins 2023 Mana Up Pow Wow Pitch

On Wednesday, November 8th, 2023, Pow Wow Pitch, North America’s premier pitch competition for Indigenous entrepreneurs, presented in partnership with RBC, Shopify, and Mastercard, announced Puna Tripp, the Kanaka Maoli Founder of Hā Tonics, from Kailua, as the first-ever 2023 Mana Up Pow Wow Pitch Winner. The Native Hawaiian-owned business has won 5,000 USD and is advancing to the 2024 Pow Wow Pitch Finals for a chance to win $25,000.

Michelle Bernier wins RBC Entrepreneurial Icon Award

Michelle Bernier wins RBC Entrepreneurial Icon Award

“I stand before you today deeply humbled and grateful to receive this award,” said Michelle. “I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the incredible team at Northern Nursing Solutions, their dedication is the driving force behind our mission success. I am also indebted to my family and community, whose unwavering support and encouragement have been my pillars of strength throughout this journey.”

Terry Brown wins RBC Rising Star Award

Terry Brown wins RBC Rising Star Award

“I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Pow Wow Pitch organizers, sponsors, and my family for believing in me,” said Terry. “Eight years ago I embraced entrepreneurship, seeking autonomy and ownership after a decade of building entities for others. The arrival of my daughter became my greatest inspiration to create a greater future for her and other generations to come. None of this would be possible without my incredible team at Okimaw Community and HR Solutions, their dedication and hard work have been the driving force behind our success.”