The MAPS (Moore Aloha Programs & Stories) Global Exchange Program is all about connection and bringing girls from around the world together to share culture, stories, and aloha. This summer, we were thrilled to host a few incredible girls from Makinohara, Japan for a week of learning, laughter, and sisterhood here in Hawaiʻi.

Throughout their stay, the girls immersed themselves in the local culture through hands-on experiences like lei poʻo making, surfing with Moniz Surf School, journaling their reflections, exploring native Hawaiian plants at Lyon Arboretum, and, most importantly, bonding with our own Moore Aloha girls. Together, they built friendships that crossed language barriers and celebrated the beauty of both Hawaiian and Japanese traditions.

A huge mahalo to our incredible community partners—Coconene, Moniz Surf School, Lyon Arboretum, Duke’s Waikiki, Hongo Florals, Flora Fusion, Outrigger Waikiki Paradise, Hoshiikiiki Social Welfare Foundation, Ride On Makinohara, Makinohara Jr. Action Sports Club—and everyone who helped make this experience so meaningful.