Judiciary Celebrates Second Women’s Court Graduating Class
Posted on Jan 29, 2026 in Featured News, News & Reports
From left: Acting Chief Justice Sabrina McKenna, Circuit Court Judge Trish Morikawa, Mohala Wahine graduates Shaye Taylor, Clarene “Ipo” Kupahu, Cheryl Moana Marie Kamalii, Kristyn Bunch, Chelsay Figueroa, and Adult Client Services Social Worker Nicole Manuma.
On January 28, five women graduated from the second cohort of the Hawaiʻi State Judiciary’s Mohala Wahine program—also known as Oʻahu’s Women’s Court—during a ceremony in the Supreme Court courtroom.
“Since the Legislature first established the Women’s Court pilot project program in 2022, Judge Trish Morikawa and her team have transformed lives,” said Acting Chief Justice Sabrina S. McKenna. “The sisterhood of women that are now part of Mohala Wahine is a testament to the program’s trauma-informed care model and mission to facilitate change in the participants’ well-being.”
Each graduate completed all program requirements, including substance abuse treatment, parenting classes, payment of fines, securing stable housing, maintaining employment or educational training, and sustaining sobriety. Participants also attended regular court hearings, met frequently with probation officers, joined weekly group classes, and stayed engaged in individualized treatment plans.
“This is such an exciting time for our five graduates, and it’s another huge milestone for our program,” said Circuit Court Judge Trish Morikawa, who presides over Women’s Court.
Mohala Wahine began as a pilot program on Oʻahu to keep justice-involved women out of jail and prison by addressing issues specific to women. Because of its success, the 2025 Legislature made the program permanent on Oʻahu and created a similar pilot program on Hawaiʻi Island.
During the ceremony, graduates spoke to more than 100 attendees, including family members, friends, dignitaries, and individuals who helped build the program. Graduates shared how the program impacted their lives and their future goals.
“With the help of Women’s Court, I have been able to rebuild my life, one piece at a time,” said Chelsay Figueroa, member of the graduating class. “Thank you to Women’s Court, and to all those who have supported me.”
Acting Chief Justice Sabrina S. McKenna hands Mohala Wahine graduate Cheryl Moana Marie Kamalii her certificate of recognition during a ceremony in the Supreme Court courtroom on January 28.
“As I came into Women’s Court, I slowly gained my self-esteem, my self-worth, my self-respect,” said graduate Cheryl Moana Marie Kamalii. “And because I gained those things, I began to love myself. And when I started loving myself, I believed I could be accountable and love others, like my family, and care about others.”
Mohala Wahine’s first six graduates were honored in June 2025. A total of 11 women have completed the program, with 30 additional participants currently enrolled.