HONOLULU, Hawaii — Akanesi, the visionary founder of Siuhuu, a rapidly growing tech startup, recently represented Tonga in the Pacific Islands Young Economic Empowerment Leaders program 2024, from February 5, 2024, to March 8, 2024. This is a program of the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government, administered by the East-West Center. The program, aimed at fostering economic empowerment among Pacific Island nations, brought together 11 exceptional leaders from 9 Pacific Islands for a transformative journey through the United States.

Work Placement

Akanesi’s journey began with a three-week intensive work placement at Blue Startups, a renowned startup accelerator in Hawaii. During this period, Akanesi had the opportunity to engage closely with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors, gaining critical insights into the tech startup ecosystem.

Akanesi with the CEO of Tetris, Maya Rogers,
at the 24th Hawaii Entrepreneur Awards.

Washington D.C.

Following the work placement at Blue Startups, Akanesi and the other cohort members traveled to Washington D.C. for a week-long series of high-level meetings and networking events. This segment of the program included interactions with the U.S. State Department and various organizations dedicated to economic development and international cooperation.

These engagements provided Akanesi with a broader perspective on global economic strategies and policies, enhancing her ability to steer Siuhuu towards greater success. The exposure to different economic models and leadership approaches was invaluable in shaping her vision for the future of her startup.

Completion of the Professional Fellows Program with Scott Kroeker – Senior Program Officer, PDP
Volunteering with Central Kitchen

East Meets West Conference in Honolulu

The program culminated with the East Meets West 2024 conference in Honolulu, the largest technology and innovation event in Hawaii. Here, Akanesi had the honor of presenting Siuhuu among a diverse gathering of tech founders, entrepreneurs, and investors from around the world.

“One of the highlights was being involved in the ‘East Meets West 2024‘ conference. It was an honor to be among tech founders, entrepreneurs, and investors, gaining valuable insights and feedback for my own tech startup, Siuhuu,” Akanesi remarked. “Leaving Blue Startups I’m filled with inspiration and determination, ready to apply what I’ve learned to my entrepreneurial journey ahead.”

Akanesi with David Holt -Program Manager at Blue Startups
Akanesi with Yiying Lu – Creator of Twitter Whale 🐳 art & 🥟🧋🥡🥠🥢🦚
Akanesi with Chenoa Farnsworth, Co-founder at Blue Startups
Scott Kroeker, Des Yaninen, Akanesi Kaufusi
VCs and Entrepreneurs

Reflections on the Professional Fellows Program

Akanesi highlighted the significant role of the East-West Center in organizing the program and providing a platform for meaningful networking and idea exchange. Her participation underscores the importance of such international programs in empowering young leaders and driving economic growth in the Pacific Islands. Reflecting on her transformative experience, Akanesi expressed optimism for the future of Pacific Island nations and emphasized the potential for innovation and growth within the region. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, illustrating how knowledge and networks developed through such programs can bolster local economies and foster positive change.

Akanesi presented her vision for Siuhuu to the Professional Fellows group at the East-West Center in Hawaii.