Baldwin Graduates Earn Japanese Cultural Society Scholarships

Stefani-Frances Sachiko Balala and Layke Yamauchi. Courtesy photo.

By Maui Now Staff

H.P. Baldwin High School graduates Stefani-Frances Sachiko Balala and Layke Yamauchi were recently presented with $1,000 scholarships from the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui .

Yamauchi, the son of Lance and Lynn, will attend Oregon State University and major in biology. Some of his contributions in promoting and perpetuating the Japanese culture have included his involvement with Maui Ki-Aikido, Komei Juku Iaijutsu, Wailuku Hongwanji Mission Dharma School Maui United Jr. Young Buddhist Association, Wailuku Hongwanji Mission Jr. YBA, Maui Okinawan Kenjin Kai Okinawan Summer Camp and Maui Taiko.

Balala, the daughter of Rodrigo and Gwen, plans to attend Kapiolani Community College and major in hospitality and tourism with a focus in Japanese language. Her involvement with the Japanese culture includes Japan Wizards, Maui Okinawan Festival, Maui Matsuri, Japanese Club, and the Manga Anime & Games Club.

The JCS Maui Scholarship is an annual scholarship. Selection criteria includes the student’s interest in perpetuating the Japanese culture, how their education will assist in perpetuating the Japanese culture, and their present and past involvement in Japanese organizations, as well as academics and community service participation.

Donations for the scholarship may be made to the Japanese Cultural Society of Maui and mailed to P.O. Box 5090, Kahului, HI 96733.