Running Start is a nonpartisan organization empowering young women to get involved in politics and transform our world, one elected female leader at a time. Learn more at runningstart.org.
Hawaiian native and Congressional Fellow Kekai Wong Yuen knew she wanted to work in politics ever since she was in high school. Growing up, she was inspired by a conversation she overheard about the power of politics and the influence it has in local communities. Knowing she already wanted to make a difference in the lives of others, Kekai then pursued a local government role to further learn about lawmaking and political structures, and now works with Running Start, where her day-to-day includes talking to constituents, drafting bill memos, and collaborating with other interns.
In addition to running for office one day, Kekai hopes to advocate for low-income communities, and to be a role model for other Hawaiian women to follow their dreams.
Age: 22
College name & major: Colorado College, English Literature
Instagram: @kekaiwy
What sparked your interest in politics?
When I was in high school, I was at an event, and I overheard a group discussing the “true” definition of politics. There were so many answers, and it made me realize that politics is everything: the education system I operate in, the water I drink, the produce I purchase from my grocery store, to the amount I get paid at my job. I realized that I already had an interest in politics, and I want to drive change for vulnerable communities, so I weaved my two goals together. This realization inspired me to reach out for an internship in my local government to learn more about the systems in place and why decisions are made.
So you want to run for office – but what’s your dream job?
I have no specific “dream job,” but rather, a list of items my dream job must consist of. I want to create change for people of color and those in low-income communities, inspire people to chase their dreams, and have fun at work!
What does your role as a congressional fellow entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?
Every morning the interns meet at 9 a.m., then we have an all-office meeting at 10 a.m. The rest of the day is a combination of phone calls, contacting constituents, writing legislative memos, and working on projects with other fellows.
What’s been the most surreal moment of your fellowship thus far?
I chose education and tribal issues as my primary areas of interest. So, I had the chance to write legislative memos and tell my Representative why she should support specific bills. I received an email back stating that my passion and writing persuaded her to cosponsor a bill, and it was the most rewarding and stimulating feeling. To know that I can make a difference even as an intern inspires me to keep moving up the ladder, continue driving change, and working to aid others.
What issues motivate you to run for office?
I attended Kamehameha Schools Hawaii—a school created for Native Hawaiians—from elementary to high school. I grew up immersed in the Hawaiian culture, and at home, I learned about my Japanese, Filipino, and Chinese roots. As I learned more about myself and my cultures, I began to appreciate my family’s opportunities. They taught me to never take anything for granted, and always appreciate each experience as an opportunity to grow and help others.
However, when I worked around the Big Island, I saw many Native Hawaiians and people of color are a majority of the homeless populations. I realized that people of Native Hawaiians and Asian Americans are the minority in the minority in our state; we’re always fighting for prospects and never receive them because of systems working against us. So, I want to give back to the people that have given me so many openings, ensuring a voice to those who feel voiceless, and offering low-income community members opportunities that feel out of reach.
Who are your role models, either in your community or at large?
I need to give a shoutout to Suzanna Tiapula, a prosecutor I worked with (and someone I hope to work with again)! She has given me so many opportunities and resources to succeed in the office, and she set me up for a remarkable future career. She always recommends me for jobs and gives me work that challenges my perspectives and allows me to think critically.
What do you wish more young women knew about political leadership?
To chase their dreams and be the leader that they have always looked up to. Representation is a major issue in Hawaii, and by showing young women that they are strong, empowering women in office will inspire them to pursue goals that they didn’t know they could accomplish.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself attending Law School in Hawaii and earning my JD in either Pacific Asian Legal Studies or Native Hawaiian Law. Then, using my degree to create change in Hawaii County and aid people of color. I want to be well-informed about public policies affecting Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and aspire to help others see the positive impacts of political engagement. Also, Iʻd like to continually grow as a leader in the community, while helping people, in a position that would allow me to think critically and solve problems.