The Hawai’i Chamber of Commerce of Northern California (HCCNC) proudly presented it's 15th Annual Five Star Aloha Gala on May 31, 2017 at the historic Westin St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco. This is their signature event and served as a venue for honoring individuals and organizations with their  Kūlia I Ka Nu’u (Strive for the Summit) Award for their contributions in promoting the Aloha Spirit throughout Northern California and beyond.

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At this year’s Five Star Aloha Gala, they honored the Pacific Islanders’ Cultural Association (PICA) for our many contributions in encouraging and perpetuating the cultures of the Pacific Islanders in Northern California. For over 20 years, PICA has showcased Pacific Islander culture through the Bay Area Aloha Festival, a two-day ethnic arts festival held in San Mateo. This popular event has brought thousands of people together to celebrate Pacific Islander culture through music and dance, authentic food and educational workshops. PICA also provides scholarships to Pacific Islander students residing in California who are either starting or continuing college or professional/trade school studies.

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Proceeds from their Five Star Aloha Gala benefited the Kūlia I Ka Nu’u Scholarship Program. Each year, the HCCNC Foundation grants scholarships to deserving students from Hawaii or the Bay Area pursuing their college educations in Northern California. It is their way to help develop the 50th State’s future leaders & further strengthen the bridge between Hawaii and Northern California.

 

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