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She now works as an HR program manager at American Savings Bank. “The aspects that I enjoy most about my career include learning about what makes organizations and employees tick, what their goals and aspirations are, and how work evolves as people’s needs enter uncharted territory. The fun yet challenging part is understanding that what works now may not work in the next three to five years. Ideally you want to prepare organizations to be agile enough to pivot sustainably,” said Jadyne. 

Jadyne is also the co-founder of Lotus Wrapping Co, an e-commerce business offering furoshiki (reusable fabric gift wrap) kits. Lotus Wrapping Co. was founded in 2020 with the mission of revitalizing the gift-wrapping experience by offering an elegant gift wrap solution that is easy to use and ultimately better for the environment. “Americans alone throw away 25% more trash than usual during the holiday season alone. If every family wrapped just three presents in re-used materials, it would eliminate enough waste to cover 45,000 football fields,” explained Jadyne. “At Lotus Wrapping Co., we host educational workshops, prepare packaging for corporate and personal events, and also offer a gift concierge service.” Visit https://www.lotuswrapping.com/ for more information. 

Through the Patsy T. Mink Leadership Alliance, Jadyne hopes to continue to improve her leadership skills. “As the first woman of color elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and the first Asian-American woman to serve in Congress, Patsy T. Mink was a distinguished leader and a true advocate for women. Despite experiencing discrimination and adversity, she gracefully overcame obstacles all while making a positive impact paving the way for future leaders. Patsy T. Mink is a true example of a brave, resilient, futuristic, and graceful leader who persevered with true grit,” said Jadyne. 

Jadyne attributes her journey of pursuing human resources and entrepreneurship to the values developed at Hongwanji Mission School and Pacific Buddhist Academy. “Ranging from the meaning of impermanence to understanding that we are all interconnected and interdependent, there are many values I’ve learned that I keep with me this until this day,” said Jadyne. “I understood early on that math and science were not my strengths. PBA never made me feel ‘less than’ for this. Instead, they valued honing in on your strengths to truly maximize your potential. I have incorporated all of these values into my own leadership style today. I often reminisce about the great teachers I had at PBA including Mr. Toyama, Mr. Josh, Mr. Corson, Otake Sensei, Mr. Heffernan, Mr. Velasco, and Ms. Carol. There are so many more. What they all had in common was that they were always authentic and genuine,” said Jadyne. 

Jadyne’s hopes for the future include opening a restaurant, building a consulting agency, and writing a book. Above all, her priority is maximizing time spent with family. “After losing my father very suddenly in late 2019, I was filled with regret of not having spent enough time, not having documented enough memories, just not having done enough,” said Jadyne. “As a result, I have a renewed focus on family, creating memories, and ensuring that they know how grateful and appreciative I am for them every day.” 

Jadyne’s former Japanese teacher Otake Sensei said, “I am so proud of Jadyne for the journey she has been on since graduating from PBA. Her success in higher education, the professional realm, and as a community leader is not surprising and is a true reflection of Jadyne's character. We were grateful to have her as part of our community as she made countless meaningful contributions to PBA's Sangha.”  

PBA congratulates Jadyne on all of her successes and wishes her an enlightening experience through the Patsy T. Mink Leadership Alliance.