Grove Farm Scholar

When Skyler Tanicala learned that a kupuna had been scammed out of thousands of dollars over the phone, he saw a problem he wanted to help solve.

That moment inspired him to start Kūpuna Technology Classes, where he has helped more than 50 kūpuna recognize scam calls, better understand digital safety, and learn about cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.

“Ongoing community work is already part of how I live and learn,” Skyler said in his scholarship application.

Skyler’s ability to recognize patterns, identify problems and take action has shaped his leadership at Kaua‘i High School. He has served as Class President and currently serves as Student Body President. He is also Captain of the Mock Trial Team, Trumpet Section Leader, and a four-year All-State and Honor Band participant.

His Student Activities Coordinator, Ms. Plowman, described him as having a “combination of technical brilliance, organizational leadership, and deep-seated altruism.”

Skyler plans to study Management Information Systems at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa . Beyond his formal education, he hopes to remain in Hawai‘i so he can “keep contributing to the same communities that shaped me.”

Thank you, Skyler, for being an outstanding leader and taking care of our community – especially our kūpuna.