After 15 years of working as a flight attendant in Japan, Kazuyuki “Kaz” Shoji found himself jobless due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of succumbing to adversity, he seized the opportunity to further his career in the hospitality industry. Drawn to Kapiʻolani Community College’s HOST (hospitality and tourism) program’s reputation, Kaz moved to Hawaiʻi in 2022 to begin his studies.
In a heartfelt commencement speech to his fellow Kapiʻolani CC graduates, Shoji recounted his transformative journey and reflected on his attainment of a certificate of achievement in hospitality operations management through the HOST program. As a former part-time student assistant to Sheila Kitamura, Health Sciences Department chair, he credited her with sharing valuable advice.
“Persistence and learning from failure will open paths you never imagined,” said Shoji. “Believe in your unlimited potential. These words came true because of my mentor, Sheila Kitamura, who never gave up on me.”
Finding community at Kapiʻolani CC
Shoji’s interactions with many HOST program faculty and staff, including assistant professor Amy Shiroma, counselor Sheryl Fuchino-Nishida, and program chair Laure Burke, have been instrumental in shaping his journey and finding a sense of community.
“Kaz brings a burst of positive energy when he walks in a room and makes everyone around him feel valued and important,” said Shiroma. “Kaz’s natural hospitality and professionalism, and his willingness to take risks and initiative, are traits that will ensure his success in any career pathway he chooses.”
Shoji plans to remain in Hawaiʻi and begin a one-year practical training opportunity provided by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services that allows international students to work for up to a year in the U.S.
“Regardless of your situation, if you encounter a problem that you can not solve on your own, please do not hesitate to ask for help,” Shoji said. “Inspired by (the Kapiʻolani CC faculty and staff’s) dedication to students, I have a new dream now that involves helping others through education.”
