The Nisei Veterans Memorial Center established the Chrysanthemum Ambassador Program, where young individuals can build and experience leadership, passion, confidence, and the GO FOR BROKE spirit that has been passed on by the second generation (Nisei) Japanese-American Soldiers. The Chrysanthemum Ambassador Program is dedicated to continuing the Chrysanthemum Ball & Festival legacy created by the AJA Veterans and the Maui’s Sons and Daughters of the Nisei Veterans.
Over a three-month period, candidates will participate in various exercises, including essay writing, fundraising, and community engagement. At the culmination, the candidate with the highest points will be named the Chrysanthemum Ambassador, earning a fully paid trip to Japan with the NVMC. The Ambassador will represent the Center at both Hiroshima Peace Park and will walk in the Fukuyama Rose Parade.
Every participant’s contribution is celebrated:
Here are the 2026 Chrysanthemum Ambassador Candidates:
RYLEE OTA
My name is Rylee Ota, and I am one of this year’s candidates for the Chrysanthemum Ambassador Program. I am a senior at Maui High School, and I serve as the co-president and trumpet section leader of the Maui High School Band. I enjoy baking, music, and 3D printing.
My great-grandfather and his brother served in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, and I am grateful and honored to have been chosen for this opportunity to raise awareness about the Nisei Veterans and their legacy.
The funds raised this year will support the NVMC Educational Center, the Digitization Project, and vital workshops that preserve history and strengthen our community. A portion of what I raise will also help me pursue my college education, ensuring that the spirit of this tradition inspires the next generation.
Your generosity will not only sustain essential projects but also keep alive a legacy of resilience, remembrance, and service.
ABIGAIL TAMAYOSE
My name is Abigail Tamayose. I am a sophomore at King Kekaulike High School. At school, I compete in wrestling and judo, and do jiu jitsu in my free time. This year, I am also competing in the Japan Wizard Competition, where we learn about Japan. I also do gospel hula and volunteer at my old school, Pukalani Elementary. I am honored to be one of the three Chrysanthemum Ambassador candidates.
My great grandparents Fusaye Kaminishi and Kazuo Nakano experienced unimaginable things during World War II because they were of Japanese descent. My great grandma was sent to Rohwer Relocation Center, while my great grandpa was sent to Heart Mountain Relocation Center. This same experience happened to many Japanese families, who lost everything because of Executive Order 9066.
I believe that it is important to encourage an upstanding relationship with Japan and foster peace, working together as two countries, united instead of apart. People in my generation are forgetting what Nisei veterans and Japanese Americans endured. I hope to connect with my heritage and develop a better understanding of Japanese and Nisei history. Through this program, I look forward to bridging the gap between old and new. I want to preserve this history and share their stories with people, keeping their legacy going for generations to come.
These generous donations will benefit the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center’s Educational Center, the Digitization Project that will archive 40,000 individual items, donations for scholarships to high school seniors, and more. A portion of what I raise will also help me to pursue my college education. Thank you so much for your donation and for your generosity and support. I am truly grateful for this opportunity and will do my best to be the voice for our community, continuing a legacy of remembrance, resilience, and honor.
KEALA RODRIGUEZ
A single folded crane is a wish for peace, but a community coming together is the fulfillment of that wish. My name is Keala Rodriguez, and I am currently a senior at Seabury Hall. As I prepare for my final semester and look toward my future, I have been honored with the opportunity to serve as a 2026 Chrysanthemum Ambassador candidate for the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center (NVMC).
My heritage is a blend of Hawaiian, Mexican, Caucasian, and Japanese roots, a reflection of the diverse “melting pot” that makes Maui so special. I believe this makes my role as an Ambassador candidate even more meaningful. While this program was founded over 70 years ago by Japanese American veterans to honor their brothers-in-arms, the values they embodied, courage, sacrifice, and Gaman (resilience), transcend any single culture. They are the values that define our island.
At Seabury Hall, I’ve stayed active in paddling and other sports. These activities have taught me that legacy isn’t just about what we leave behind, but what we build for others.
Why Your Support Matters: While many are familiar with our $25 “Peace Birds” as a symbol of hope, I am reaching out to you today to help us achieve something even larger. Your gift is an investment in the “living memorial” that the Nisei veterans envisioned.
Please support these candidates and come celebrate at the Chrysanthemum Gala on Friday, April 24 at the Maui Beach Hotel
You can purchase your tickets early with the earlybird price at $160 or sponsor the Chrysanthemum Gala here: https://auction.biddingforgood.com/ticket-event/341829566