Living Treasures of Hawaii™ recognizes and honors individuals who have demonstrated excellence and high achievement in their particular field of endeavor, and who, through continuous growth, learning, and sharing, have made significant contributions toward enriching our society.
The program was inspired by the Living National Treasures (Ningen Kokuho) of Japan. In 1976, Bishop Yoshiaki Fujitani instituted the program within the Hongwanji at the suggestion of Paul Yamanaka, a local insurance executive. Initially established to honor those involved in the perpetuation of the island’s distinctive cultural and artistic heritage, the recognition has been expanded to include contributions by individuals in all areas of endeavor. A complete list of honorees since Living Treasures was established in 1976 is available.
2025 marked the 50th Living Treasures of Hawai’i™ Recognition Program and Luncheon!
2025 Honorees
Dennis Sueo Agena has spent over five decades mentoring thousands of young athletes, teaching not only basketball fundamentals but also life lessons in respect, teamwork, and integrity as the founder of the Kalakaua Basketball Clinic in Kalihi. Revered for his humility and dedication, Coach Agena’s influence extends far beyond the court, inspiring countless youth to pursue higher education and become impactful members of the community.
William Wallace Char, Jr. (Bill Char) is a master lei-maker and cultural steward who, over the past 50 years, has been revitalizing and innovating the traditional Hawaiian art of lei-making, blending ancestral wisdom with modern artistry. Renowned for his humility and dedication, Bill has mentored countless students, enriched iconic community events, and elevated the cultural significance of lei-making in Hawaiʻi and beyond.
Neil Jacob Kahoʻokele Hannahs is a visionary leader in cultural and natural resource stewardship, renowned for his transformative approach to ʻāina-based education and sustainable land management across Hawaiʻi. As founder of Hoʻokele Strategies and the First Nations Futures Program, his work empowers communities, fosters indigenous leadership, and ensures the preservation of Hawaiian culture and environmental sustainability for generations to come.
Victoria Holt Takamine is a celebrated kumu hula, cultural advocate, teacher and mentor who is propelled by a deep love of the Hawaiian people and culture and by her desire to foster an inclusive, culturally grounded society. A tireless leader, she champions cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and social justice, with initiatives like the PA‘I Foundation and groundbreaking projects such as Ola Ka ‘Ilima, an affordable housing and workspace for artists in Kaka‘ako.
Dr. George Joji Tanabe, Jr. is a distinguished scholar and leader whose lifelong work in Buddhist studies and interfaith understanding has profoundly enriched Hawaiʻi and the global community. As a former Chair of the University of Hawaiʻi’s Department of Religion and President of BDK Hawaiʻi, he champions the preservation and promotion of Buddhist teachings and cultural heritage, fostering harmony and mutual respect worldwide.
For more detailed profiles of our honorees, see our press release (01/27/25).
Nominations for 2026
An organization or person may nominate a candidate for this recognition by submitting a nomination form with information on the nominee and up to three letters of recommendation. You may download a nomination form or pick one up at the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii Headquarters Office (see Contact Us). Completed nominations may be submitted in the following manner:
- By mail
- By fax – (808) 522-9209
- By email – admin@honpahi.org
(please use “Nomination for Living Treasures of Hawai’i” in the subject line) - Dropped off during office hours
The completed nomination must be received by the Living Treasures Committee no later than the close of business on August 1. Presentation is made in February of the following year. For additional information, please call our office at (808) 522-9200.
Donations
Donations to support the Honpa Hongwanji’s Living Treasures of Hawaii™ program are welcome. You may use the PDF registration form linked above to make a donation even if you are not attending the event. You may also donate online to the Living Treasures Fund. Thank you!