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IPA Freshmen Strengthen Core Values Through Philanthropy

ISLAND PACIFIC ACADEMY’s Five Agreements, Student Government, and Make a Difference Day have helped build two freshmen’s passion for philanthropy. Bostyn Tsukamoto ‘26 and Jacqueline Arvman ‘26 have been selected to serve on Youth Service Hawaiʻi’s Youth Philanthropy Board. They will evaluate proposals and award grants to service-learning projects that have long-term impacts on communities.

When Bostyn learned IPA’s five agreements in Elementary school, she connected most with Mālama- Take care of each other and this place. “It made me want to do more community service because those things have been part of my environment for so long,” shared Bostyn.

Bostyn’s parents are grateful she’s serving on the board. “This opportunity allows Bostyn to pursue her passion for helping others on a larger scale. It is our hope that Bostyn continues to utilize the skills in her future endeavors,” said Tate and Kym Tsukamoto.

Jacqueline’s interest in philanthropy peaked when she joined middle school Student Government. “During Covid I had an idea for a service project, which was giving Christmas cards to the seniors at ʻIlima [at Leihano] Senior Center. It just made me very happy knowing that my position in student government gave me a voice,” said Jacqueline.

Her parents felt the same way. “We remember being very happy when she started IPA in sixth grade and there were so many opportunities for her to do things,” shared Andreas and Zenaida Arvman. Jacqueline was just four years old when they noticed how curious she was about the safe drinking water shortage in Haiti. “She went straight to her room and created a donation box that said, ‘Send water to Haiti,’” said the Arvmans.

In Grade 6, Bostyn remembers cleaning up plastic at the beach for IPA’s Make a Difference Day. “I just enjoyed being able to go out with my friends and doing something good for the community while having fun,” said Bostyn. She hopes students will change their perspective on service-learning. “It can be something fun and it doesn’t have to be something mandatory that the school makes them do. They can have an enjoyable time, and can give back to the community more, and can really make an impact on what they’re doing,” she shared.

Both girls plan to serve on the board until they graduate from high school. “We’re really hoping Jacqueline will continue down these paths throughout her career and maybe inspire others along the way too,” said the Arvmans. “I’m excited to see where it goes and how far it goes when we’re seniors and if we’ll get to do more than evaluate, what other things we can do with philanthropy,” shared Jacqueline.

IPA is excited too. “We can’t wait to see their growth in service to the community and in leadership,” said Be-Jay Kodama, Director of Advancement. “We are confident they’ll take this experience to the next level in college and beyond!”