Rooted in Place: What Makes a Hawaiʻi Neighborhood Thrive

Join us for a conversation exploring how art, food, planning &culture can help Hawaiʻi’s neighborhoods thrive while staying rooted in place. Across Hawaiʻi, neighborhoods such as Kakaʻako, Kaimukī and Downtown/Chinatown continue to evolve. Bringing together voices from urban design, art, local food and planning, this conversation will explore what makes a neighborhood vibrant, connected and rooted in place. From growth and identity to shared spaces, local businesses and community connection, our panelists will consider how Hawaiʻi’s neighborhoods can evolve while holding onto the character and relationships that make them distinct. Meet the Panelists Alex Beatty Chief, Urban Design Branch, Department of Planning & Permitting Jasper Wong Founder, World Wide Walls Ashley Watts Owner & Operator, Local I'a Kimi Yuen President & Chairperson, PBR Hawaii & Associates, Inc. Moderated by Bettina Mehnert President & CEO, AHL Learn more about our panelists, preview the conversation and reserve your spot on our event website. Event Details Thursday, September 24, 2026 5:30–7:00 PM AHL Office Pacific Guardian Center, Makai Tower Suite 3100 Light pūpū and refreshments will be provided. Parking: Parking validation will be available after 4:00 PM. About the Series Launched in 2017, AHL’s Art + Design + Architecture Panel Series brings the community together for meaningful conversations about the interconnectedness of art, design and architecture and how these fields shape the way we live, build and experience Hawaiʻi. We all have a role in the neighborhoods we call home, work in and experience every day. Join us for our final Art + Design + Architecture Panel of 2026. Ready to join the conversation? Visit our event website to learn more and reserve your spot.