Grove Farm Scholar

Sofia Saunders is a graduate of Waimea High School and will be attending the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa to study Architecture and Environmental Design. Her goal is to return to Kauaʻi and design environmentally conscious architecture. As a talented graphic designer, Sofia’s work for the Kaua‘i Forest Bird Project was recognized at the state level and awarded three Gold Pele American Advertising Awards. For her senior project and as a volunteer, Sofia applied her design skills to help Hoʻomalu Ke Kai, a local nonprofit, rebrand and effectively engage younger generations in their work to create healthier marine life.

Sofia has found a way to merge her two passions for sustainability and design. Her ultimate goal is to become a licensed architect and create innovative, socially focused, and sustainable designs that will contribute to a healthier way of living.

Inspired by her mother, Sofia shared that her mom instilled in her the values of creativity, open-mindedness, and kindness from a young age. These values have led her to become the person she is today, and she strives daily to not take anything for granted and to give back to those around her in everything she does.