What a great experience to start the year off with Jennifer Sabas, Owner, and President of Kaimana Hila as we embrace our 2024 theme, “Expand and Empower.”
Jennifer’s career is a great example of the ability to expand knowledge, silently tear down the glass ceiling, and gain empowerment, by not giving up. Little did she know at the time that she was creating a path for her advancement and the advancement of those women who would come after her. Her career started with a unique focus on agriculture and sugar. Ironically, sugar was her passion but also became her nick name at meetings. She thought “sugar” would be her reality, and she would just have to live through it until her determination and resilience kicked in. It also helped that she worked for a supportive boss, Senator Daniel K. Inouye, who could have changed the situation, but instead told her, “be patient, those people who said those things, will appreciate you.” Jennifer took those words to heart and let them build her character instead of tearing it down. Long story, short, her narrative changed. Those who called her "sugar" would later need her support.
Jennifer did not let that part of her story slow her down but used it to her advantage to accelerate her career. Another opportunity allowed Jennifer to build her knowledge base and expand her repertoire. She wanted to learn more about the military, DOD, National Security, and work with three- and four-star generals. Jennifer was able to utilize her listening and interpersonal skills not only to get a seat at the table but to be able to contribute and make an impact.
Jennifer provided tips for those who want a seat at the table:
- Get involved in partnering and networking.
- Once you get to the table, create space for others to come along.
- Be vulnerable and honest.
- Look for people with different skill sets to help.
- Do your research and be able to share those stories that capture attention.
- Sometimes compromise sucks, but you must do it.