Future Global Leaders Shine at 2025 Hawaii Regional Academic WorldQuest
What does it take to win a global knowledge competition? Just ask the students from across Hawaiʻi who put their critical thinking and teamwork to the test at this year’s Academic WorldQuest! On March 1, over 128 students from O‘ahu, Maui, and the Big Island competed in one of Hawaiʻi’s biggest global trivia competitions, showcasing their expertise on international affairs and world issues.
What is Academic WorldQuest?
Academic WorldQuest (AWQ) is a nationwide competition designed to challenge high school students on their knowledge of global affairs. Teams of four compete in answering 60 multiple-choice questions covering current global events, international policies, and historical context. It’s more than just a trivia competition—it’s an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the world around them and gain real-world skills that will serve them in their future careers.
Competition Highlights
Over 128 students from public, private, and charter schools participated.
Top Moments: From nail-biting tie-breakers to unexpected upsets, this year’s competition was packed with excitement!
Hardest Category: Space & National Security
🏅 Meet the Winners
🥇 1st Place Overall
Waiks - Kealakehe High School
Coree Kobayashi, Luke Gee, Azalea Thorp, Lucy Cameron
🥈 2nd Place Overall
Mighty Mules - Leilehua High School
Braelyn Robinson, Micah Zinn, Zara Gardiner, Darien Van Winkle
🥉 3rd Place Overall
The Smart Cookies - Hawaii Technology Academy, Waipahu
Melanise Washington, Kirra Dixon, Conner Birdsall, Vincent Na
County Champions
Hawaiʻi County
Brown Bearringtons
Kealakehe High School
Maui County
Rice & Shine
Maui High School
Honolulu County
Falcons on Fire 🔥
Kalani High School
Hawaiʻi Representing on the National Stage
Congratulations to Kealakehe High School - Waiks for securing a spot at the National Academic WorldQuest Competition in Washington, D.C. This is more than just a trip—it’s a chance to showcase Hawaiʻi’s top global scholars, network with peers from around the country, and represent Hawaiʻi on a national stage!
Thanks to Southwest Airlines, these students will experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—all expenses paid!
Why It Matters: Empowering the Next Generation
Beyond trivia, WorldQuest is about developing critical leadership skills. Students walk away from the event with:
Leadership & Advocacy: Empowering students to engage with and advocate for global issues.
Collaboration: Building teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
Critical Thinking: Analyzing complex global events and understanding their impacts.
Student Reflections: The Impact of WorldQuest
One of the most powerful aspects of this event is how it helped students deepen their understanding of global issues and develop lifelong skills. Here’s what students had to say:
“This competition opened my eyes to international issues I wouldn’t have explored on my own.”
“This competition challenged me to think critically about global issues and work as a team.”
“The best part? Strengthening teamwork and leadership skills while having fun!”
“I loved collaborating with my peers from other schools—it was such a great networking opportunity!”
Thank You to Our Sponsors
This event would not be possible without the support of the Southwest Airlines and the McInerny Foundation. Their generous contributions help make these transformative experiences possible for students across Hawaiʻi.
What’s Next?
Think you have what it takes to compete? Start preparing now!
Stay tuned for updates on next year’s Academic WorldQuest competition and how you can get involved. Follow PAAC for study resources, preparation tips, and exciting updates about future global events.
