A New Maui Now Article Highlights the Importance of Supporting Youth Before Disconnection Occurs

A new article published through Maui Now highlights an important and growing conversation across Hawaiʻi: how communities can better support young people before they become disconnected from education, employment, and long-term opportunity pathways.

The article discusses the growing focus on Opportunity Youth — young adults who are no longer connected to school, work, or career training programs — and the importance of creating stronger systems of mentorship, workforce development, and early support.

Across Hawaiʻi, organizations, foundations, educators, and community leaders are recognizing the need for solutions that support both immediate stability and long-term economic mobility for young people.

The article also highlights the importance of early mentorship, leadership development, confidence-building, communication skills, and exposure to real-world opportunities during middle and high school years.

MAUI GEMS, a program of What Makes You Feel Beautiful, was included as part of this broader conversation around youth development and prevention. Through mentorship, leadership experiences, and connections with local women leaders and entrepreneurs, MAUI GEMS helps girls begin exploring future pathways while building confidence and communication skills during formative years.

These early experiences can significantly influence the direction of a young person’s future.

When young people have access to supportive mentors, positive peer communities, and opportunities to imagine their future, they are more likely to remain engaged in school, connected to opportunity, and supported as they transition into adulthood.

Supporting Maui’s youth is a shared responsibility across families, schools, nonprofits, businesses, and community members. By investing in young people early, we help create stronger futures and a more resilient Maui for generations to come.

Read the full article here:https://mauinow.com/2026/05/03/op-ed-a-community-approach-to-supporting-mauis-youth/

Mahalo to Maui Now for helping bring awareness to conversations that support the well-being of our youth and community.