Maria Lujan Achirica’s journey from Veracruz, Mexico, to the the United States at the age of 16 and then to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa epitomizes the pursuit of purpose and passion. Initially uncertain about her academic path, Lujan Achirica was drawn to UH Mānoa’s vibrant, diverse community and commitment to the Aloha spirit.
“The campus also had like-minded individuals who cared about the ocean and environment, and that played a major role in my decision to come to UH,” said Lujan Achirica.
She is leaving UH Mānoa with two bachelor’s degrees—one in psychology and the other in environmental and oceanic humanitarian studies—and shared her story with her fellow graduates as the student speaker at the UH Mānoa December 16, fall 2023 commencement ceremony at the Stan Sheriff Center.
Growing as a person
Lujan Achirica has always been passionate about learning and she said UH gave her the chance to expand her educational horizons. What she didn’t expect was how much she would grow as a person, leaving her grateful to have been a part of UH and this graduating class.
“The Maria that came into UH during freshman year isn’t the same Maria I am today,” said Lujan Achirica. “I am so much more of the woman I wanted to be just because of the place and people I’m surrounded by, and the things I’ve learned. I’m lucky to have attended UH, which has a very strong sense of community and people who truly uplift me and make me a better person.”
While she believes her progress as a person is her most notable achievement during her time as a Rainbow Warrior, she has garnered many accomplishments, including the opportunity to visit the U.S. Capitol in 2022 to speak to federal representatives about ocean conservation and the importance of taking care of the land, people and ocean.
“Speaking to federal officials about ocean protection and conservation was a deeply meaningful experience for me. It felt like I had a chance to be a voice for the oceans, conveying the passion and urgency behind the cause. As Jacques Cousteau (an oceanographer and filmmaker) once said, ‘The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever,’” said Lujan Achirica. “Advocating for our oceans allowed me to cast that spell a little wider, fostering understanding and hopefully inspiring positive action. The opportunity to share my perspective with those who can influence change at a federal level was empowering, and I’m grateful for the chance to contribute to a cause I hold close to my heart.”
Additionally, Lujan Achirica was invited back to Mexico by the Veracruz State Attorney General of Environmental Protection to share about her experiences as a waterwoman and ocean activist during the 5th Climate Week conference in her hometown.
The Maria that came into UH during freshman year isn’t the same Maria I am today.
—Maria Lujan Achirica
Gratitude for generations before her
When Lujan Achirica was 16-years-old, she immigrated to New Jersey for better education opportunities and quality of life. Her grandfather, who had limited access to higher education, engaged in strenuous labor to support her family. Her mother, who strived to become a lawyer through a local college in Mexico, displayed what women are truly capable of as she overcame hardships.
“Because of their efforts, their endeavors, I was able to achieve the accomplishments and wins I have today. I would not be who I am without them,” said Lujan Achirica. “I am extremely grateful for the opportunities they have presented to me—I am fortunate to have such incredible role models in the generations that precede me.”
It’s nice to have a friend
A believer in women supporting women, Lujan Achirica found much of her motivation and strength from the empowered women she met at UH Mānoa.
“I’m very grateful to have my family behind me, supporting all of my decisions, but I’m also appreciative of my group of girlfriends that have been there for me throughout my time at UH,” she said. “The sense of womanhood that has risen in my life the past four years has been absolutely incredible and inspiring. The way me and my girlfriends have each others’ backs, show up for each other, value each other, encourage each other to be better people—my girlfriends are one of the most influential support systems I have.”
Feeling encouraged by her loved ones and different communities, she plans to attend graduate school to obtain a master’s degree in climate adaptation and mitigation after exploring the world and centering herself for a semester.
“I’m still a college student like so many others, and navigating this space can be challenging for us as we’re following our dreams and discovering who we are and values we want to represent,” said Lujan Achirica. “I hope for my fellow college students and graduates to always unapologetically be themselves. Don’t hide your feelings, don’t make yourself any less—show up exactly as you are.”
