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Elizabeth Hata Watanabe | And the Award Goes to…

…Elizabeth Hata Watanabe. And, she’s no stranger to awards. An astute businesswoman and philanthropist, Watanabe is recognized for her efforts in supporting her community in a variety of ways.
Elizabeth Hata Watanabe was named one of Pacific Business News’ 40 under 40 in 2006. This award acknowledged the 40 people under the age of 40, who are rising stars in Hawaii’s business community. At the time, she was the owner of the O Lounge and O Bartending Academy. And, in 2010, Watanabe was among those distinguished, on another Pacific Business News list of “Women Who Mean Business.” 
 
This mother of three was also named Mother of the Year in 2008, after winning an online vote by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s MomsHawaii.com website. She was the first mother to win this honor from MomsHawaii.com. 
 
Elizabeth Hata Watanabe founded The Hata Foundation, a nonprofit organization established in 2010 to support other nonprofits, including The Hawaii Foodbank, Child and Family Services, and the Next Step Shelter. She said she founded the organization to support needy children and families in Hawaii. In 2012, The Hata Foundation sponsored the “Stars of Hope” event in which one worthy teenaged girl was honored with a scholarship. That year, 13-year-old Kiana Sanders, a student at Central Middle School, was the recipient of a college scholarship.

Watanabe’s foundation is always willing to help those who work hard for the things they need and want. She also volunteers at Iolani School, where her son, Kevin attends.
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