Claire Masquida, from Kealakehe High School, a force of nature in both academics and community engagement, stands tall as the recipient of the prestigious Paul S. Honda Scholarship from the Pacific and Asian Affairs Council (PAAC). Continuing the excellent work that earned her the Eddie Tangen Award, from PAAC in 2023, Claire's dedication to sustainability and global health is truly remarkable.
At Kealakehe High, Claire's impact is felt far and wide. From her pioneering work in bioinformatics at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park to her leadership as president of the HOSA Club for Future Health Professionals, Claire is a shining example of innovation and commitment.
Her academic prowess, boasting a stellar 4.17 GPA and ranking first in her class of 247, is matched only by her passion for real-world application. Balancing part-time work cultivating Asparagopsis taxiforms for Blue Ocean Barns with rigorous early college courses, Claire exemplifies determination and excellence.
Claire's global perspective is further enriched by her involvement with PAAC. In 2023, she excelled in PAAC’s Hawaii Sustainable Development Goals Early College course, offered through a partnership between PAAC and the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo. She was then selected to participate in the prestigious Villars Institute Youth Symposium in Geneva, Switzerland, where she delved into systems change for a net-zero world.
Read Claireʻs take-away! “The Villars Institute Symposium brought together young minds from around the world to address climate change—a pressing global issue. Collaborating with experts, educators, and entrepreneurs, we explored solutions and the role of systems leadership. Beyond the symposium, our visit to the United Nations Human Rights Council and the Red Cross Museum deepened my understanding of global challenges and the interconnectedness of healthcare, human rights, and diplomacy. These experiences crystallized my career aspirations. While I've always been drawn to medicine and global issues relating to health policy and human rights, exposure to how international affairs professional work highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches. [...] Through interdisciplinary learning and global engagement, I aim to become a leader not only in our community but also on the global stage. PAACs ongoing support has been instrumental in broadening my perspective and empowering me to effect meaningful change.”
Claire is inspired by, “Dr. Gro Harlem Brundtland. Beyond her remarkable achievements as the first woman and youngest individual to serve as Norwegian prime minister, Dr. Brundtland's pivotal role in popularizing the concept of sustainable development has left an indelible mark on global discourse. processes. Inspired by her trailblazing journey, I am motivated to advocate for greater gender equality in international diplomacy, ensuring that women's voices are heard and valued in shaping policies that affect us all. As I embark on my own path in international affairs, Kamikawa's legacy serves as a guiding light. Her pioneering spirit encourages me to embrace challenges with confidence and determination, knowing that barriers can be overcome with perseverance and resilience.”
Now, armed with the Paul S. Honda Scholarship, Claire is poised to pursue her dreams of studying global community health at the university level. Her dedication to sustainability, coupled with her unwavering commitment to making a difference, promises a future filled with positive impact and meaningful change.
Here's to a future where Claire's passion and dedication lead to a healthier, more sustainable world for all!