Kiara Gajo
Kiara Gajo is a community-centered storyteller and youth advocate based in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, currently serving as a Statewide Membership Manager for Girl Scouts of Hawaiʻi. In this role, she leads membership strategy, oversees volunteer training and onboarding, and designs inclusive programs that empower young people to grow in confidence, leadership, and cultural awareness. Her work is deeply rooted in creating meaningful experiences that connect girls and communities to Hawaiian culture, outdoor education, and personal development, reflecting her commitment to building systems that uplift and sustain communities.
Alongside her leadership in the nonprofit sector, Kiara is an accomplished writer and communications professional with a strong background in media, marketing, and storytelling. Since beginning her career in 2019, she has contributed to various publications, including freelance writing for Oʻahu-based media outlets, where she highlights small businesses, community leaders, and local culture. Her experience spans digital marketing, public relations, editorial writing, and multimedia production, allowing her to craft narratives that amplify underrepresented voices and foster authentic human connection.
Kiara holds a Master of Science in Marketing Management from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, a milestone she considers a period of significant personal and professional growth, and a bachelor’s degree in Communication and Media Studies from Florida State University. Influenced by her Latin, Asian, and Polynesian heritage, she brings a people-first approach to all her work, blending cultural insight with strategic thinking. Outside of her professional pursuits, she enjoys ceramics, surfing, swimming, yoga, and community-based advocacy, continuing to live out her passion for storytelling, creativity, and connection in every aspect of her life.
• Google Analytics Individual Qualification
• Advanced Social Advertising Certification
• University of Hawaii at Manoa - MSMM
• American Advertising Federation
• Hawaii State Foundation of Culture and Arts
• Hawai'i State Foundation on Culture and Arts (SFCA)
• Girl Scouts of Hawaii
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering support and example set by my family. As a second-generation American with Filipina and Puerto Rican roots, I was raised in a strong, close-knit environment shaped by resilience, hard work, and love. My parents and extended family—including my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins—consistently encouraged me to dream big, provided opportunities for growth, and supported me at every stage of my journey. Their sacrifices and belief in my potential instilled in me a deep sense of commitment and determination, and I am grateful to be a product of such a supportive and hardworking family foundation.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to trust my instincts and follow what genuinely excites and fulfills me. I’ve learned that when I stay aligned with my values and interests, my energy and direction don’t steer me wrong. Rather than chasing a rigid or conventional definition of success, I focus on what feels meaningful to me and commit fully to it. When I stopped forcing a path that didn’t align and instead leaned into what I loved—starting from scratch and taking risks—opportunities began to unfold more naturally. That experience reinforced my belief that success and passion don’t have to be separate, and that clarity comes from consistently choosing what feels right and purposeful.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to embrace authenticity as your greatest strength. While confidence and assertiveness are important, there is real power in being genuine and building meaningful connections—especially in fields like writing and marketing where authenticity resonates deeply. At the same time, advocate for yourself and the value of your work. Build your skills and portfolio through experience, whether through paid roles or passion projects, but don’t let early uncertainty define your worth. As you grow, step into opportunities with confidence, recognizing that your perspective, creativity, and ability to connect are true assets—not weaknesses.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is effective communication across different styles, personalities, and systems. There’s a strong need for better processes and tools that help teams align and collaborate more seamlessly. At the same time, this presents an opportunity to prioritize impact over short-term results—focusing on meaningful relationships, adaptability, and clear, intentional communication to drive more sustainable and human-centered outcomes.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important value in both my work and personal life is maintaining healthy boundaries. I’ve learned that creating a sense of safety and comfort allows me to perform at my best and communicate openly. Setting boundaries hasn’t always been easy—it often requires difficult conversations and making tough decisions—but it has been essential in protecting my well-being and ensuring I’m in environments where I feel supported and respected. By being honest about my needs and knowing when to step back or move on, I’ve been able to build more meaningful relationships and create space where I can thrive.
Locations
Girl Scouts of Hawaiʻi
Urban Honolulu, HI 96822