Guided by Community.
Rooted in Hawaiʻi.
Focused on Opportunity.
Nahiku Foundation was created to help people in Hawaiʻi access education, skills, and support systems that strengthen families and communities.
Our Mission & Vision
The Nahiku Foundation envisions a thriving Hawaiʻi where every individual has access to education,
skills, and resources needed to reach their full potential while giving back to and strengthening our local communities.
Nahiku Meaning: In Hawaiian, Nāhiku means “the seven” and refers to the Big Dipper constellation (or the Seven Sisters), which has seven prominent stars. The seven stars of the Big Dipper served as an important guide for ancient Polynesian voyagers navigating the Pacific Ocean.
Foundation Name: The name Nahiku was chosen as our interpretation of the word, reflecting unity and guidance. To us, Nahiku means working together, guided by the seven stars of the Big Dipper, to navigate toward a brighter, better future for our community.
Slogan: “Navigating Together Toward a Brighter Future”
Our Name Carries a Legacy of Navigation & Connection
In Hawaiian tradition, Nahiku refers to the seven stars of the Big Dipper. These stars helped navigators find their direction across vast oceans. For us, Nahiku symbolizes:
Guidance – being a steady resource for individuals and families
Mentorship – experienced voices helping others move forward
Community – the idea that progress happens when we navigate together
Hope – the North Star that reminds us the future can be brighter
Nahiku Foundation honors this cultural knowledge by supporting people as they chart new pathways toward stability, opportunity, and contribution.
Our Commitment to Transparency
Nahiku Foundation operates as a Hawaiʻi-based nonprofit organization with bylaws that protect the integrity of our work and ensure responsible stewardship of resources.
We follow nonprofit best practices in:
Board governance
Financial oversight
Conflict-of-interest compliance
Annual reporting
Program evaluation and continuous improvement
Our Leadership
Stratton Wright, Co-Founder
Born and raised on the island of Oahu, Stratton Wright brings deep local roots and a passion for community to his role as one of the Founders of The Nahiku Foundation. A proud Maryknoll Schools graduate and devoted father to his daughter, Tori, Stratton’s entrepreneurial path began with his clothing brand, “Paradise Drive,” which later expanded into organizing social events, all while working in his main career field, construction project management and inspections.
His drive for innovation ultimately led him to establish Paradise Inspections, where he now serves as Founder and President of a rapidly growing residential and commercial inspection company that is transforming the condominium and townhome association landscape. Recognized as one of the most accredited professionals in his field, he leads numerous educational seminars for property managers, insurance companies, and association board members across Hawai‘i. Stratton’s depth of expertise, strong leadership, and unwavering commitment to service continue to elevate both his industry and the communities he serves.
Eric Chu, Co-Founder
Born and raised on the island of Oahu, Eric Chu brings local culture and a global perspective to his role as one of the Founders of The Nahiku Foundation. He attended the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, where he studied political science. He is a licensed realtor and a “serial entrepreneur” who has built multiple companies, including a thriving distribution business. His ability to understand Mandarin Chinese helps him easily bridge cultures and communities in both business and philanthropy.
His vast experience, extensive resources, and proven entrepreneurial vision make him an exceptional leader. Eric is also a proud member of various organizations, where he collaborates with fellow innovators to elevate Hawai‘i’s business landscape.
Be Part of Our Journey
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Share your time to support training, mentorship, and community programs.
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Collaborate with us through your business, school, or organization.
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Help us build sustainable programs that serve Hawaiʻi for generations.