48th Visitor Industry Charity Walk announces 4-chair Maui committee from Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

The Maui Hotel & Lodging Association will have a first-ever four-person chairmanship for the Annual Visitor Industry Charity Walk taking place on Saturday, May 15, 2027 at the War Memorial Complex in Wailuku.

This new colleague-led committee was introduced by the MHLA board chair, Richard Elliott, General Manager of the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, to help support the continued growth of Hawaii’s largest single-day nonprofit fundraiser.

“Maui Nui shares very strong and unique ties within its community,” said Richard Elliott. “The hotel properties and allied businesses are always excited to give back to this place, the home and heart for all of us. This year, Andaz is proud to lead this honor with four of our finest colleagues who truly embody what this industry is about. “

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort colleagues serving as the Charity Walk Chairs are:

Joann Hatfield, Associate Director of Events

Hatfield has worked with Hyatt Hotels for more than 28 years, including nearly seven years at Andaz Maui. Her deep love for Maui, its culture, and its community inspires her commitment to giving back, including supporting Maui Humane Society and Girl Scouts of Hawaiʻi. For Hatfield, the Maui County Charity Walk turns community spirit into meaningful support for the people and organizations that make Maui home. Knowing the funds raised stay in Maui County to support local nonprofits makes every step a reminder that small acts of care can have a lasting impact.

Shoka Faafiti, Director of Security

Faafiti has worked in Maui’s hotel industry since 1993, serving as Director of Security for four major hotel brands. He feels blessed to be part of Andaz Maui, where he has supported the safety and security of the Maui County Charity Walk for many years. A professional Samoan fire dancer at heart, Faafiti performed with Tihati Productions for 18 years and traveled around the world. He looks forward to serving on the committee and working together to support the Maui community and make a difference.

Kaili Hirose, Finance Coordinator 

Hirose has been blessed to work for Hyatt Hotels for nearly 39 years. She began her career at Hyatt Regency Maui in Kāʻanapali and transferred to Andaz Maui at Wailea five years ago. Throughout her career, Hirose, her family, and her colleagues have looked forward to participating in the Annual Charity Walk and supporting local charities. She values the way people across the hospitality industry, local businesses, and community organizations come together to make a difference.

Leah Espejo, Room Attendant 

Espejo is a charter member of the Andaz Maui team, having joined the resort when it opened in 2013. She takes pride in her work and is dedicated to helping her colleagues and guests have a memorable experience on Maui. Espejo is an enthusiastic supporter of the resort’s annual Charity Walk events, arriving early to lend a hand and bringing positive energy and encouragement to the day. Her commitment reflects her care for the resort team and the wider Maui community.

About the Visitor Industry Charity Walk

In 2026, Maui County raised nearly $1.8 million which directly benefitted over 78 of Maui County’s nonprofit organizations. For the last 17 years, Maui has raised more money than any other county in Hawaii with each year’s funds exceeding the previous year. Since 1980, when MHLA began hosting the event, Maui residents and visitors together, have cumulatively raised $23 million, all of which returns to benefit the local Maui community. Nonprofit grant applications, walker registration, as well as sponsorship opportunities are now available on the MHLA website. Additional information can be received by e-mailing info@mauihla.org.

“The Maui Charity Walk is a fun family day with gourmet breakfast, swag and entertainment,” said John Pele, Executive Director of MHLA. “While the visitor industry leads this event, this is a time for the community to come together and support the charities who keep our island in balance.”