LIHU‘E — The YWCA of Kaua‘i presented scholarships valued at $3,000 to two young women Friday, just days before the students depart for mainland colleges.
YWCA of Kaua‘i Executive Director Renae Hamilton-Cambeilh explained that, traditionally, these scholarships would be presented at a larger event celebrating women, but due to the COVID-19 these events disappeared. Instead, the presentation was done at a small, informal luncheon at the gazebo behind the YWCA building on Elua Street in Lihu‘e.
Braelyn Cayaban, a graduate of Waimea High School, was announced the recipient of the YWCA Board of Directors Scholarship in the amount of $2,000, and Pohakea Aguiar, another Waimea graduate, was presented the YWCA “Pay it Forward” Scholarship in the amount of $1,000.
Both girls will be pursuing futures in the medical field, Cayaban aspiring to become a pediatrician, and Aguiar planning to become a forensic nurse and return home to Kaua‘i.
Cayaban will be leaving shortly for Colorado University to pursue her studies while playing basketball for the Buffaloes.
Aguiar will be leaving for the Dixie State University in St. George, Utah, for her studies.
YWCA of Kaua‘i scholarships are available to young women who are Kaua‘i residents already enrolled in college or planning to attend college, and have met the high-school graduation requirements for public, private, home school and GED programs.
The YWCA of Kaua‘i encourages individuals with passion for women’s issues to apply.
•••
Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
