Pathways To Our Future

Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB) announced the return of their highly anticipated Ke Alahele Education Fund Benefit Dinner & Auction, themed “Pathways to Our Future.” The event will take place on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at the Wailea Beach Resort–Marriott, Maui. The evening will commence with a reception and silent auction at 4:30 pm, followed by dinner at 6 pm. The Ke Alahele Education Fund is truly an investment in our youth. It helps to build a thriving STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) education-to-workforce pipeline throughout Hawaii.

“STEM education plays a crucial role in creating pathways for our youth to pursue fulfilling careers,” said Leslie Wilkins, MEDB President and CEO. “With the support of our community, we can continue to foster innovation, critical-thinking and problem-solving skills that will shape the future of Maui County and beyond.”

MEDB’s work over the years has involved increasing equity and access for students and teachers to software, coding, robotics, and engineering design, empowering our youth with skills and opportunities directly relevant to the workplace. MEDB’s signature STEMworks™ Program uses relevant, place-based curricula, paid internships and work-based learning, workshops and conferences to inspire thousands of students in Maui County and Statewide. Vital to this work is the support of the community and the generosity of businesses and stakeholders. 

This year’s event on August 19^th will celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of students in STEM fields. With an estimated attendance of 400 guests, this evening presents a unique opportunity for companies and individuals to showcase their support for the future of our youth and the community. Guests can bid on a number of auction items during the popular Apples for Education Auction, and compete in teams during MEDB’s signature interactive game. Proceeds from this event will contribute to the advancement of MEDB’s comprehensive STEM programs, enabling MEDB to continue to benefit the lives of residents statewide.

Maui High School robotics teacher Keith Imada said, “Our Blue Thunder team has traveled to regional competitions almost every year. None of these experiences would have happened without the help of MEDB’s Ke Alahele Education Fund. The Fund gives students opportunities to be exposed to numerous STEM-related ideas and solutions, most of which we could never afford. Thank you, MEDB!”