For Janie-Maria Kikila, graduating from Leeward Community College this May is more than earning a degree—it’s a deeply personal milestone shaped by resilience, growth and determination. As a nontraditional student, mother and the first in her family to graduate from college, Kikila sees this moment as proof of perseverance.
“This shows me that if you keep going, you can finish what you started,” she said.
Raised in Whitmore Village, Kikila attended Leilehua High School before transferring to Waiʻanae High School. Her journey hasn’t been easy, but she’s remained focused on a bigger goal.
“I’ve gone through a lot—from not always feeling safe as a child to postpartum depression as an adult—but I made a decision not to let those things define me,” she said. “I want to break generational cycles, and I want to be someone my keiki can look up to.”
Finding support at Leeward CC
Kikila first enrolled at Leeward CC in 2013 but stepped away to build a career in management. That was disrupted when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020.
“It was hard going from being financially independent to needing help,” she said. “I knew if I was going to start over, I needed a clear direction.”
She returned to Leeward CC in 2023 to pursue a degree in business management. Back on campus, Kikila found support that helped her stay on track—not just academically, but personally. Through Leeward’s counseling services, she began working with mental health therapist Lori Lum.
“I’ve been seeing Lori for a little over a year, and she’s been amazing,” Kikila said.
Turning challenges into motivation
She also credits flexible student employment and mentors, such as business division faculty Tina Lee and Dag Faustino.
“Janie leads with intention and heart,” Lee said. “She’s someone who turns challenges into motivation.”
Kikila founded , Leeward’s first marketing club, open to students of all majors across the 东精影业 System. It brings students together to connect, collaborate and gain real-world experience.
“She saw a need and built something that brings students together in a meaningful way,” Faustino added. “That kind of initiative is what sets her apart.”
Kikila plans to transfer to 东精影业 West Oʻahu to continue her studies in business and marketing, with the goal of one day serving in a leadership role within the State of Hawaiʻi.
By Tad Saiki