🌟 Aloha ʻOhana,
As we enter the season of gratitude, we want to take a moment to say “Mahalo” to each and every one of you who has supported our mission — from attending meetups to sharing knowledge, volunteering, and spreading aloha through technology.
This month we are reflecting on how far Hawaiʻi’s blockchain and digital literacy movement has come, and how much further we can go together.
Mahalo to Our Sponsors
Big mahalo to Stand with Crypto for sponsoring us and leading the charge to make sure crypto innovation has a voice. If you want to be part of their mission and help shape the future of crypto policy, check them out and get involved here ➡️ Stand with Crypto
Advancing Innovation in Hawaiʻi
At Pūpūkahi Tech Foundation, our mission remains steadfast: to empower Hawaiʻi’s underserved communities through digital education, equitable access to technology, and advancing knowledge in blockchain, Web3, and AI.
By continuing to invest in local education and innovation, we’re ensuring that locals don’t get left behind in this next wave of technological change. Together, we’re building a future rooted in community and opportunity.
Alika Kane and Glen White dive into Glen’s crypto journey and his vision for how blockchain technology can drive positive change in both Kiribati and Hawaiʻi.
Community Recap
🎙️ Talk Story Session Highlight: Glen White
Last month, we sat down with Glen White, a Harvard Alumni, for an inspiring Talk Story session on his journey into cryptocurrency and his master’s thesis exploring how blockchain could empower the island nation of Kiribati, and what lessons Hawaiʻi can draw from utilizing blockchain technology.
Glen shared how decentralized tools can foster financial inclusion and help small island communities take control of their economic futures. His perspective reminds us that blockchain isn’t just about technology, it’s about people, sovereignty, and resilience.
Watch the full interview on our YouTube.
📚 Crypto Made Simple: “What is a Wallet?”
Think of a crypto wallet like a digital version of your house keys. It’s how you access and control your crypto.
Hot Wallets are online (like apps on your phone). They’re convenient for quick transactions.
Cold Wallets are offline (like hardware devices). They’re safer for long-term storage.
Note: Your wallet doesn’t hold your crypto. It holds the private keys that prove ownership on the blockchain. Lose your keys, and it’s like losing your front door key with no spare. 🔑
Pro tip:
Start small, back up your recovery phrase, keep it in multiple safe places, and never share it with anyone.
🗓️ Upcoming Events and Workshops
🍻 Upcoming Crypto Meetup — Honolulu
When: Thursday, November 13, 2025, 6:00–8:00 pm (HST)
Where: Hanakoa Brewing
What: Casual Talk Story + networking about Bitcoin, blockchain, and local projects. New to crypto? Come learn. Seasoned? Come share.
Bring: Questions, friends, and aloha.
➡️ RSVP/Details: https://luma.com/ofxjpdqc
🔧 Cool Tool from Our Community
If you’ve been looking for an easy way to learn the basics of crypto and blockchain right from your phone, check out the Crypto Academy app on iOS! 📲
Created by our own community member Anthony Banks. It’s a fun, interactive learning experience that makes complex topics approachable. Perfect for anyone just getting started in their digital journey.
Local Innovation Spotlight: Makani FC
Makani FC is Hawaiʻi’s first soccer club exploring tokenization as a way to strengthen community ownership and engagement.
By issuing digital tokens to fans and supporters, Makani FC is creating a new model for local sports: One where the community has a stake in the team’s growth, helps fund youth programs, and even votes on key initiatives.
It’s more than just soccer; it’s about experimenting with how blockchain can build tighter community bonds and sustainable local ecosystems.
Stay tuned for future collaborations as we explore how Web3 can empower more local organizations like Makani FC.
“Gratitude turns what we have into enough—and innovation turns it into opportunity.”
Talk Story Corner
Have a question? Curious about a term you keep hearing? Want to know how blockchain might actually help in everyday life here in Hawaiʻi?
📩 Email us at [email protected]
📱 DM us on Instagram @blockchain_in_paradise
We may feature some of your questions in our next newsletter (don’t worry, we’ll keep it friendly and anonymous unless you want a shout-out 🤙).
Remember: no question is too small. If it’s on your mind, chances are others are wondering the same thing. Let’s talk story and learn together as an ʻohana.
🙏 Mahalo & Call to Action
If our work resonates with you, please consider a donation to Pūpūkahi Tech Foundation. Your support directly funds workshops, mentorship, and community programs that build digital and financial literacy across Hawaiʻi.
➡️ Donate Here
Closing Thoughts
This November, we give thanks not just for progress but for the people behind it. Every conversation, class, and connection brings us closer to a more inclusive future.
A hui hou,