The story of MakaWorks

Where tradition meets technology to navigate Hawaii's digital future.

Our Story

MakaWorks began in 2025 to adress head on the growing digital divide in our islands. While technology races forward globally, many in our local communities—from kupuna to small businesses—are being left behind.

The name "Maka" has several meanings in Hawaiian, including "eye" or "vision." Just as traditional navigators used their vision and knowledge of stars to chart journeys across vast oceans, we help our community members navigate the complex digital landscape with confidence.

Today, our growing team of local technology navigators works with individuals, families, and businesses across Oahu and virtually statewide, helping build digital skills that matter for life and work in Hawaii.

MakaWorks Story

Digital Navigation

Guiding Hawaii's journey into the digital future.

Our Mission & Values

Guided by both innovation and tradition, we're building digital equity for all of Hawaii's communities.

🌊

Aloha

We approach every interaction with genuine care, respect, and a focus on building relationships, not just delivering services.

🌱

Kuleana

We embrace our responsibility to help all of Hawaii's people participate fully in the digital world that increasingly shapes our lives.

🤝

Lōkahi

We believe in unity and collaboration, bringing together diverse perspectives to solve technology challenges.

Our Team

Digital navigators with deep roots in Hawaii and expertise in technology education:

Dean Ahlgren

Chief Learning Officer

📧 dean@maka.works

📱 (808) 468-7474

1001 Bishop St Suite 2685A Honolulu, HI 96813

Eunjeung Ahlgren

Chief Operations Officer

📧 eunjeung@maka.works

📱 (808) 468-7474

1001 Bishop St Suite 2685A Honolulu, HI 96813

Our Community Impact

Since our founding, we've been honored to help thousands of Hawaii residents build digital confidence:

750+

Kūpuna Served

Seniors who now independently use technology to connect with family, manage health, and access services.

1,200+

Keiki Empowered

Children who have participated in our free digital literacy and coding programs.

80+

Local Businesses

Small businesses across Oahu who have improved their operations and customer experience through our training.

450+

Workers Upskilled

Working adults who have advanced their careers through our technology training programs.

Recognition & Partnerships

We're grateful to work alongside these organizations in service to our community:

Join us in building a more digitally equitable Hawaii

Reach out to learn more about our programs, partnerships, or how you can support our mission.