What Makes You Feel Beautiful

05/27/2026

A new Maui Now article is helping bring attention to an important conversation happening across Hawaiʻi about supporting youth before disconnection occurs 🌿
The article explores the growing focus on Opportunity Youth, mentorship, workforce pathways, leadership development, and the importance of creating early support systems that help young people remain connected to education, opportunity, and long-term success.
MAUI GEMS, a program of What Makes You Feel Beautiful, was included as part of this broader conversation around youth development, mentorship, confidence-building, communication skills, and helping girls begin exploring future pathways during formative years.
These early experiences matter.
Mahalo to Maui Now for helping shine light on the importance of investing in Maui’s youth and future generations.
Read the full article at the link in bio or here:
https://mauinow.com/2026/05/03/op-ed-a-community-approach-to-supporting-mauis-youth/
LeadershipDevelopment CommunitySupport WorkforcePathways YouthDevelopment WhatMakesYouFeelBeautiful

05/24/2026

Some hard truths about family that people don’t always talk about

1. Just because people are family does not always mean they stay close
Relationships still need love, effort, kindness, and communication to grow.
2. Some parents did the best they could with what they knew
Not everyone was taught how to express love, handle emotions, or communicate in healthy ways. That does not make the hurt disappear, but it can help people understand where it came from.
3. Families sometimes avoid talking about pain
Instead of working through problems, many people stay silent. Over time, those feelings can build up and create distance.
4. Some family members only show up when they need help
Not every relationship is built on true care and support. Sometimes people stay connected out of habit, guilt, or convenience.
5. The person who speaks up is often blamed first
The family member who sets boundaries, asks questions, or tries to stop unhealthy patterns is sometimes treated like the problem—even when they are trying to heal.
6. Childhood experiences can affect people for years
Being criticized constantly, feeling unloved, growing up around anger, or not feeling emotionally safe can follow people into adulthood without them realizing it.
7. Forgiving someone does not always mean allowing them back into your life
You can let go of anger and still protect your peace.
8. Pain can be passed down through generations
People who were hurt, neglected, or never taught healthy love sometimes repeat those same behaviors without meaning to.
9. Love without respect can still be painful
Being family does not make it okay to manipulate, disrespect, control, or constantly hurt someone.
10. Choosing peace does not make you selfish
Sometimes creating space, setting boundaries, or protecting your mental health is necessary for healing.

Family can bring love, comfort, and support…
but it can also leave deep emotional wounds.

Healing often begins when people stop pretending everything is okay and start being honest, setting healthy boundaries, and learning to care for themselves too.

04/28/2026

Maui County honored 23 incredible individuals as 2026 Volunteer Heroes—recognized for their dedication, compassion, and impact across our island community.

Among those honored is Rebecca “Kona” Jackson, nominated by What Makes You Feel Beautiful.

This recognition reflects the heart of service—showing up, giving back, and standing in support of others with love and intention.

Volunteers are the quiet strength behind so much of what is possible. Their time, care, and presence create ripples that reach far beyond what can be seen.

With gratitude and aloha to all who serve our community, and deep appreciation for those who walk alongside What Makes You Feel Beautiful in this work.

Maui is stronger because of you.

04/23/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1J1CMDm2t1/?mibextid=wwXIfr

"Rebecca Jackson, known as Kona, has made a meaningful and lasting impact at What Makes You Feel Beautiful through her dedicated service supporting women, girls, and families across Maui. As a MAUI GEMS participant and volunteer, she plays a vital role in our community care and hygiene access efforts, helping distribute essential products to women and girls who face economic barriers. Through this work, Kona ensures that people receive not only what they need, but also dignity, respect, and care during vulnerable times.

What makes Kona an exceptional volunteer is the way she leads with both compassion and responsibility. She consistently goes beyond what is asked, stepping in wherever help is needed and supporting younger girls by example. Kona brings maturity, empathy, and reliability to every interaction, and she has become a trusted presence within our programs. Her ability to connect with people and make them feel seen and valued sets her apart.

Kona’s service reflects the true spirit of volunteerism—showing up with heart, purpose, and consistency. Her leadership and commitment to community have already been recognized through her selection as the Violet Richardson Award 2026 Runner-Up Recipient by Soroptimist International of Maui. She represents the very best of youth leadership and service in Maui County, and her impact continues to ripple through everyone she serves."

04/16/2026

Today is International Documentary Day 🎬

A story worth watching. A journey worth honoring.

Rising Waves: The Inspiring Journey of Captain Brown—Hawaiʻi’s first female Captain for Ocean Safety.

A reflection of courage, resilience, and what becomes possible when a woman follows her path.

This is more than a documentary—it’s a reminder.

Watch here:
https://youtu.be/xIax7Nnwy6w?si=2evMk3Yh4hz2_AI5

Leadership Inspiration

04/16/2026

Today is International Documentary Day 🎬

Stories have the power to move us, to ground us, and to remind us of what is possible.

Today, we honor that power by sharing something deeply meaningful—

“Rising Waves: The Inspiring Journey of Captain Brown, Hawaiʻi’s First Female Captain for Ocean Safety.”

Created during Women’s History Month, this mini documentary highlights the life of Captain Chantelle Pamalia Nani o Kekai Brown—a woman whose journey reflects strength, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her community.

From her early beginnings to becoming the State’s first female Captain for Ocean Safety, her path is a reflection of courage, resilience, and purpose.

Her story is not only her own—it carries the spirit of Maui’s women, and the quiet, powerful ways they continue to rise, lead, and create change.

May this be a reminder that there is a path unfolding for each of us—one that asks for trust, courage, and the willingness to step forward.

Watch the documentary here:
https://youtu.be/xIax7Nnwy6w?si=2evMk3Yh4hz2_AI5

With gratitude for her journey—and for all the women who continue to shape the world around them.

4 likes. "The Inspiring Journey of Captain Brown, Hawaii's First Female Captain for Ocean Safety"

04/11/2026

here is something beautiful unfolding on Maui 💛

The F.L.Y. program (First Love Yourself) is growing—creating space for middle school girls to build confidence, connection, and a strong sense of self.

This work is about more than a program.
It’s about showing up for our girls in the moments that matter most.

If you feel called to be part of this journey, we invite you to learn more:

https://www.wmyfb.org/post/fly-sel-program-maui

Tag someone who believes in supporting our girls 💛

03/07/2026

Congrats to WMYFB-What Makes You Feel Beautiful

These businesses continue to shine through their outstanding service, innovation, team building, job creation, and commitment to the community. This award honors those who truly go above and beyond, exemplifying the Aloha Spirit and the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of Maui.

02/24/2026

Black women nonprofit leaders in Hawaiʻi are shaping communities, building healing-centered programs, and filling critical gaps in care—often with fewer resources and less visibility.

This Black History Month, we’re honoring the women who lead with vision, courage, and deep commitment to community. Their impact is real. Their work matters. And their stories deserve to be seen.

Read the full story here:
👉 https://www.wmyfb.org/post/black-women-nonprofit-leaders-hawaii

WMYFB

02/12/2026

Our February 2026 Community Newsletter is available.

In this issue:
• Youth Spotlight: Kona’s Violet Richardson Award recognition
• A February self-love reflection
• How to join the Monthly Givers Circle
• Volunteer and community event updates

If you want to stay informed and support programs serving women, girls, and families across Maui, we encourage you to read this month’s update.

View the full newsletter here:
https://www.wmyfb.org/post/february-2026-community-newsletter