Ulupono Welcomes Mariah Yoshizu to Government Affairs Team

May 19, 2023

Ulupono Initiative welcomes Mariah Yoshizu as its associate of government affairs in a newly created position designed to further expand the impact investment firm’s mission to improve the quality of life for the people of Hawai‘i by working toward sustainable solutions.

In her role, Yoshizu is responsible for assisting in the evaluation of public policy across all of these sectors Ulupono supports — locally produced food, renewable energy, clean transportation choices, and better management of freshwater resources. Additionally, Yoshizu will assist in drafting testimonies for proposed legislation and working with partner organizations toward shared goals.

Most recently, Yoshizu served as a legislative aide at the Hawai‘i State Senate, where she prepared bills, testimony, and committee reports. Yoshizu also conducted research, wrote district correspondence and monitored legislative progress.

Prior to that, Yoshizu expanded her knowledge of Hawai‘i’s local food systems by volunteering at Kāko‘o Ōiwi, Ho‘oulu ‘Āina, and Full Circle Farms while also gaining experience in supervisorial and managerial roles at Whole Foods and The Beet Box Cafe. Her experience in the food industry led her to build partnerships with multiple local businesses to create cyclical waste systems and increase access to locally grown food.

“Mariah’s experience and values makes her an excellent addition to the team,” said Murray Clay, president of Ulupono Initiative. “Her understanding of the legislative process, in combination with her passion for sustainable solutions, will strengthen Ulupono’s ability to support and guide public policy focused on Hawai‘i’s resiliency goals.”

Yoshizu earned her Bachelor of Science in human nutrition, foods, and exercise from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

About Ulupono Initiative

A mission-driven venture of The Omidyar Group, Ulupono Initiative was founded in 2009 and strives to improve the quality of life for the people of Hawai‘i by working toward sustainable solutions that support and promote locally produced food, renewable energy, clean transportation choices, and better management of freshwater resources. For more information about Ulupono Initiative, visit ulupono.com or connect with Ulupono on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.