Mahealani Sims-Tulba, Founder and CEO of B.R.A.V.E Hawaii
B.R.A.V.E. Hawai'i is a local non-profit organization, founded and created by Mahealani Sims-Tulba in 2013. The name "B.R.A.V.E" is an acronym that stands for "Be Respectful and Value Everyone." Having been a victim of bullying herself, Mahea works hard in the community to bring awareness to students against bullying, by speaking and reading to schools while promoting values of kindness and respectfulness, goal setting, personal development and motivation.
In 2012 to complement the launch of the B.R.A.V.E Hawai'i foundation, Mahea also authored and illustrated a children's book entitled, “It’s Okay to Be Different,” whose story line is inspired by her personal accounts of being bullied by fellow students in elementary school. Mahea believes the process of writing the book and creating a foundation has allowed her to turn her negative experience into positive change and awareness of the bullying problem in Hawai'i. It is also her way of sharing her experience with others and being a voice for those who have ever experienced bullying on any level.
"Some of the most rewarding work I do is fundraising and speaking to make a positive difference in Hawai'i communities. I feel blessed to use my ability to make people laugh to help schools, clubs, and organizations across the state. These efforts are proudly supported by our generous friends and sponsors.
Created by my daughter Mahealani Sims-Tulba when she was just thirteen years old, B.R.A.V.E Hawai'i is very dear to my heart. B.R.A.V.E Hawai'i helps local students understand that the key to success is Being Respectful And Valuing Everyone. We have the amazing opportunity to touch the lives of Hawaii's youth through our DOE certified school programs. Our program curriculum helps students address bullying in elementary school, positive goal-setting in middle school, and making right choices in high school. We reach tens of thousands of students annually, and plan to incorporate focus on underage alcohol abuse prevention, in partnership with the County of Hawai'i Department of Liquor Control.
We also hold an annual pageant called Miss American Scholar, utilizing the principles of B.R.A.V.E. Hawai'i as our community service platform.
I truly believe B.R.A.V.E Hawai'i will expand our message of empowering young students statewide. We are now in the process of launching our newest project, The B.R.A.V.E Hawai'i Leadership Academy!"
- Augie T
Comedian, Motivational Speaker,
and Mahea's dad
