Meet Wallyn

Family is at the heart of who I am. I was born and raised on Oʻahu, the youngest of four children in a family deeply rooted in Hawaiʻi. I grew up with my older sister and two brothers, raised by our grandmother who hānai (informally adopted) us. She was our foundation. As a single grandparent, she led with strength, love, and discipline. “Grams” taught us respect, resilience, and to always do our best. She passed in 1991, but her lessons still guide me every day.

In 2022, my sister moved to the mainland, and in that same year, we lost both of my brothers just two and a half months apart. That loss changed our family forever.

After my parents divorced, my father continued his 30-year career in the U.S. Army, and my mother moved to the mainland. Later, through his second marriage, our family expanded to include my stepmother, a stepsister, and a younger sister.

I received my education and graduated from Hawai’i’s public school system. I went on to earn college degrees in Justice Administration, Business Management, and Theology—all while raising my children and supporting my husband during his Navy career.

I’m a proud mother of four children and a grandmother—“Puna”—to eight moʻopuna. Like many local families, the high cost of living has pushed my three daughters and eight grandchildren to the mainland, while my son remains here on Oʻahu.

Service has always been a part of my life. I’ve worked with animal advocacy groups, served in my church, supported the homeless, helped our kupuna, and spoken at state and county hearings on issues impacting our communities.

I’m passionate about standing up for what’s right and representing the people of Hawaiʻi. I stepped forward because I believe we can do better—and that together, we can make a real difference.

“You want to see change – Be the change yourself!” ~ Anonymous