The Maui Okinawa Kenjin Kai recently awarded two $1,000.00 scholarships to Aaron Omuro and Cara Kurokawa, both of whom graduated from Maui High School.

Omuro is the son of Curtis Takashi and Jennifer Omuro of Kahului. He plans to attend UCLA and major in chemical engineering focusing on renewable energy.

Kurokawa is the daughter of James and Yvette Kurokawa of Kahului. She wants to study psychology. Her journey will start at the University of Hawaii Maui College and her goal is to continue her education at UH Hilo and Chaminade.

The Maui Okinawa Kenjin Kai is a nonprofit organization committed to perpetuating the Okinawan heritage, culture and arts. The Maui Okinawa Cultural Center is located across the old Sack N Save in Wailuku.

Membership is open to everyone, those whose roots are in Okinawa as well as others who are Okinawan at heart. The organization is affiliated with the Hawaii United Okinawan Association (HUOA), which serves as the statewide organization for almost 50 member clubs across the islands.