LIHU‘E — Lauren Pang and Courtney Samiano were recently selected as the winners of an essay contest sponsored by the Kaua‘i County Committee on the Status of Women, and will be attending the International Women’s Leadership Conference scheduled today on
LIHU‘E — Lauren Pang and Courtney Samiano were recently selected as the winners of an essay contest sponsored by the Kaua‘i County Committee on the Status of Women, and will be attending the International Women’s Leadership Conference scheduled today on O‘ahu, a county news release states.
The theme of the contest was “Women that inspire you as a leader.”
Pang’s essay titled “Finding Light in the Darkness” was inspired by the writing of acclaimed author Lois-Ann Yamanaka.
The Kapa‘a High School senior said that the author taught her that through “collective freedom”, one is able to approach situations with sadness, anger and humor, and that leadership in one’s thoughts is very important.
Samiano, a Kaua‘i High School junior, noted that her essay titled “Divine Guidance” was inspired by Rami Donahoe and Judy Byce, both members of the church she attends.
The encouragement provided by Donahoe and Byce has motivated Samiano to come out of her comfort zone and begin singing at church and also become a youth leader.
Accompanying the contest winners to O‘ahu will be KCCW officers: Regina Carvalho, chair; Kanani Alapa, vice chair; and Lisa Ellen Smith, past chair.
This is the third year that the Committee on the Status of Women is participating in the International Women’s Leadership Conference featuring speakers from around the world who share thoughts and dreams.
Other members of the Committee include: Linda Bothe, secretary; Uli‘i Castor, treasurer; Jade Battad; and Anne Punohu. Cherie Mooy, an ex-officio KCCSW member, represents KCCSW on the Hawai’i state Commission on the Status of Women.
In 1970, the state Legislature passed enabling legislation to establish the Committee on the Status of Women in each county. Its mission is to serve as a voice for women throughout the state.
The work of the Committee is based on effective public/private partnerships and networking among a variety of boards, coalitions, and professional and community groups.
For more information about the Kaua‘i County Committee on the Status of Women, visit www.kauai.gov or call 241-4920.
