For alumna Kiana Beimes, a journey that began with educational uncertainty has flourished into a thriving career in the hospitality industry. Beimes, who grew up in Waikīkī surrounded by the tourism sector, now serves as the general manager of Outrigger Waikīkī Paradise Hotel. Her path to success was shaped by perseverance, family support and the invaluable experiences she gained at Kapiʻolani CC.
Beimes¡¯ college career began at the University of Â鶹´«Ã½ at ²Ñ¨¡²Ô´Ç²¹, before transferring to Kapiʻolani CC in 2010.
“The difference Kapiʻolani CC made in my life is that I felt less intimidated due to the smaller class sizes. I felt a lot more engaged because of the intimate settings, and I found that the faculty themselves were extremely energetic and exhilarating,” she said. “I felt really comfortable. I felt like that¡¯s where I was able to thrive.”
Beimes discovered her passion for at Kapiʻolani CC. Inspired by a friend¡¯s enthusiasm for the program, she enrolled and quickly realized that it was the perfect fit.
“It felt like a dream come true, because it was just innately who I am,” she said. “It was very much an aligning moment for me. My passion, my experience and my knowledge of the industry all came together.”
Pillars of support
Beimes credits her success to the unwavering support of her mother, Mapuana Dervaes, who instilled in her a strong work ethic and resilience. She also acknowledges the faculty at Kapiʻolani CC, including Dave Evans, Laure Burke, Sheryl Fuchino-Nishida, and Kawehi Sellers, who played a pivotal role in her academic and professional growth, nominating her twice for the Outstanding Student Award, which Beimes won in 2012.
“Because of them, I was able to continue my education. They made me aware of scholarships and grants, which were crucial for me since finances were a major barrier,” she said. “They were rock solid supporters of me. I consider them to be major pillars in my career.”
Beimes¡¯ career with Outrigger began during an internship at the Outrigger Reef Hotel, which was secured through a class at Kapiʻolani CC. Within months, she was offered a full-time position as an overnight auditor. She worked her way up, taking on roles as a front desk agent, guest services manager, and eventually hotel manager at Ohana East. Only 10 years after starting with the company, she was promoted to general manager, overseeing a major renovation and rebranding project that transformed the property into Outrigger Waikīkī Paradise Hotel.
Respected leader
Evans, her former Kapiʻolani CC professor, wrote, “I cannot overstate how proud all of the faculty of the Hospitality and Tourism Education department at Kapiʻolani Community College are of Kiana¡¯s accomplishments ¡ how significant it is for us to witness the success of a local girl, a graduate of Kalani High School and the University of Â鶹´«Ã½ Community College System become a highly respected voice of leadership in our Â鶹´«Ã½ hospitality and tourism industry.”
Now, as an industry leader, Beimes hopes to inspire others to pursue their passions.
“I want visitors to experience the magic I did throughout my childhood,” she said. “Waikīkī will always be my happy place. No matter how much it changes, it has always given me a sense of wonder and excitement. I hope every visitor who comes here gets to feel that at least once in their life.”
—By Kelli Abe Trifonovitch
