By Jason Ubay
About 200 people were nominated for our 20 for the Next 20 program. Some did not fit our criterion of being somewhat “under the radar” but clearly would have a major impact on Hawaii over the next two decades. So we created this eclectic list of existing leaders whose local influence is still growing.
• Micah Kane: The former head of the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is now a Kamehameha Schools trustee and frequently cited as a possible Republican candidate for high office.
• Darren Kimura: The University of Hawaii graduate is a founder and principal of the high-tech firm Sopogy. Originally from the Big Island, he is active in many community causes there and elsewhere in Hawaii.
• Colbert Matsumoto: An attorney and CEO of Island Insurance, he was the court-appointed master who helped transform Bishop Estate/Kamehameha Schools. He is active in many community issues ranging from education to energy sustainability to Japanese culture.
• Pierre and Pam Omidyar: Pierre Omidyar, the billionaire founder of eBay, and his wife support a wide variety of community causes in the Islands. He has also launched a new-media news service for Hawaii called Peer News.
• Henk Rogers and Jeff Mikulina: Rogers, who made millions by popularizing the computer game Tetris, is founder of the Blue Planet Foundation, focused on energy independence and sustainability. Mikulina, former leader of the Hawaii Sierra Club, now serves as executive director of the foundation.
• Candy Suiso: She is the founder and driving force behind the successful Searider multimedia education programs and productions out of Waianae High School.
• Shane Victorino: The all-star centerfielder for the National League-champion Philadelphia Phillies has earned a World Series ring and just received a three-year, $22-million contract. He has done a lot of community service, especially on his home island of Maui.
• Eric Yeaman: The president and CEO of Hawaiian Telcom is also a member of many community boards.