Cynthia has the rare gift of being an agile whole-brain thinker. As both an artist and a practical strategist, Cynthia’s work has benefitted clients across the spectrum, from large Fortune 500 corporations to independent grassroots community organizations as well as state and government institutions. This broad range of experience gives her unique insights and perspective to the challenges and benefits of the “4 Ps” – partnerships, people, planet and profit.
As a member of an elite group of experienced Graphic Facilitators and strategists, Cynthia’s creates visual tools and designs processes that inspire, excite and ignite group energy and draw out (literally) efficient and effective and actionable strategic plans of every kind.
Needs assessments, brainstorming organizational development, Vision/Mission statements, marketing & communication plans, internal policies, program development, project management and implementation are all made better when mapped out in clear and innovative ways.
From large community meetings to intimate strategy sessions Cynthia maps ideas, clarifies visions, supports solutions and actions and documents commitments in engaging and memorable ways.
A seasoned marketing and communication professional, Cynthia also has over 25 years experience in corporate ID/brand development development, communications, strategic planning, relationship marketing, consumer acquisition and retention, business-to-business strategy and art Direction. Her career as a Creative Director and Brand Strategist began in New York City at top ad agencies serving Fortune 500 clients as well as boutique and family-owned businesses. She has received numerous awards for her work.
A philanthropist and NPO founder, Cynthia conceptualized and manifested the development of Surfrider Spirit Sessions, a first-of-its kind surf mentoring program serving at-risk and adjudicated teens. Initially funded by proceeds from Cynthia’s award-winning book “The Surfer Spirit” the non-profit programs evolved into a stable and solid 501c3 entity. By 2012, the organization had recruited and trained over 250 volunteer mentors, served over 300 youth and raised well over a million dollars in funding support. Her book “The Survivor Spirit ~ The Beauty, Passion and Power of Breast Cancer Survivors.” continues to support women undergoing treatment in Hawaii Hospitals.
Cynthia currently serves on the Board of Surfrider Spirit Sessions and provides ongoing support of staff and programs. She is an Advisory Board Member of Aloha o Kalani Cultural Enlightenment Center, led by Kahu Wendell Kalanikapuaenui Silva. She has also served on the board of the Surfrider Foundation Oahu Chapter and is a member of the Organization of Women Leaders. She continues her work in Hawaii and travels as needed for mainland clients.
If you want to catch her, get up early. You’re likely to find her hitting dawn patrol on the waves near Waikiki or walking her dogs Kika and Kona on the beach in Kailua.