Both programs honor the legacy of the late Congresswoman Patsy T. Mink by creating opportunities for women in Hawaii to strengthen their leadership skills, connect with peers, and amplify their impact on the community. Brandy graduated from the Leadership Alliance, while Cerry and Kat completed the Mink Wahine Rising program.
Brandy Oki: Leading with Purpose and Legacy
For Brandy, the experience was a reminder that leadership is more than driving results; it’s about standing firm in your values and creating space for others to thrive. “One of my biggest takeaways was the importance of developing the people who will lead the future success of HawaiiUSA,” she shared. Brandy left the program inspired to be more intentional about nurturing future leaders and building an environment where everyone can contribute to shaping the credit union’s long-term vision.
Cerry Kato: Embracing Vulnerability and Trust
Cerry reflected on the program as a journey of self-discovery and growth. She learned that authentic leadership requires vulnerability, empathy, and clarity. “It’s okay to not be okay sometimes,” she explained, “and to trust my teammates to help resolve challenges together.” She has found greater confidence and mindfulness in her role of fostering collaboration and strengthening relationships with her team and members alike.
Kat Zabala-Savellano: Redefining Leadership Through Delegation
For Kat, the biggest shift came from realizing that effective leadership isn’t about doing everything yourself. “By holding onto tasks, I was unintentionally limiting my team’s growth and burning myself out,” she said. Through the program, Kat reframed delegation as a powerful tool for empowering others. Today, she leads with more trust, confidence, and clarity in creating space for her team to thrive while ensuring she’s fully present for those she serves.
Beyond the lessons, all three women said the relationships they built with other women leaders were among the most inspiring parts of their journey. Their stories reflect what leadership at HawaiiUSA is all about: caring for people, building trust, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. We’re proud to celebrate Brandy, Cerry, and Kat for their accomplishments and look forward to the positive impact they’ll continue to make within our organization and throughout our community.
