What does courage look like?

Leadership doesn't always look the way we expect.

Sometimes it's standing firmly in who you are. Sometimes it's creating space for others to grow. Sometimes it's taking a risk on an idea. And sometimes it's finding common ground when the path forward isn't easy.

Lead & Lift 2026, presented by the Junior League of Honolulu, brings women from different backgrounds and fields together for an honest conversation about leadership, courage, purpose, and impact.

This year's panel features three remarkable Hawaiʻi women:

Nicole Mehanaokalā Hind — a cultural practitioner, educator, and community leader whose work centers Hawaiian language, culture, and traditions.

Meli James — an entrepreneur and ecosystem builder helping Hawaiʻi businesses grow while creating new opportunities across the Islands.

Dr. Maenette Benham — an academic leader, Native Hawaiian scholar, and mentor committed to creating inclusive, community-rooted spaces for learning and leadership.

A fourth panelist will be announced soon.

Together, they'll explore the choices, challenges, risks, and experiences that have shaped their leadership journeys—and what their stories can teach all of us about finding the courage to lead.

Come for the conversation. Leave with something to carry forward.

Lead & Lift is designed to be accessible to women at every stage of their leadership journey—from students and emerging professionals to established leaders, entrepreneurs, nonprofit professionals, and community members.

Saturday, October 10, 2026
9:00–11:30 a.m. | Limelight Hawaii, 410 Atkinson Drive | Honolulu

$30 General Admission | $15 Junior League Members & Students

Your ticket helps offset the cost of the event while supporting the Junior League of Honolulu's leadership development and community programs.

Come hear four perspectives. Ask your questions. Meet other women who are leading, learning, building, and making an impact in Hawaiʻi.

What does courage look like for you?

Lead & Lift 2026: Women Who Lead Hawaiʻi