Our County » Sustainability Summit 2021

Keynote Speaker - John De Fries

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Born and raised in Waikīkī, John De Fries grew up surrounded by elders within his family who were steeped in the traditional practices of the Hawaiian culture. At the same time, Waikīkī Beach was well on its way to becoming a global visitor destination. This childhood setting embedded in him a life-long awareness and respect for the symbiotic relationships that exist between community and culture, nature and commerce. John has over 40 years of experience in one of Hawaiʻi’s most cherished traditions that has become its largest industry – hospitality. His experience has lead him to serve the community as a thought leader in economic development, sustainable living, human rights, and embracing native intelligence. In recognition of his leadership and vision, John was appointed President and CEO of the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority in September 2020, leading Hawaiʻi’s visitor industry and community through the post-pandemic economic recovery and reinvention. John is the first Native Hawaiian and the first neighbor island resident appointed as HTA’s President and CEO. For the past three decades, John and his wife Ginny have lived in Kona on Hawaiʻi Island.
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