India Ching
Ke aloha mai and Mabuhay! My name is India Kawelolani Calso Ching, and I am the reigning Miss Oʻahu Filipina 2025.
As a Filipina living on these islands, I was in the perfect environment to be taught the meaning of aloha, bayanihan, and family at a very young age. Growing up, I always knew that my ultimate goal in life was to give back to Hawaiʻi and her people. Being crowned the 50th Miss Oʻahu Filipina has allowed me to continue working towards this very goal, in addition to providing a platform where I can share my stories, who I am, and how I take action in our Filipino community and beyond.
Throughout my reign, I have had so many opportunities to meet Hawaiʻi’s leaders, business owners, artists, everyday working people, and so much more. I have volunteered at places such as Hui Mahiʻai ʻĀina, the Plaza Assisted Living, with Family Programs Hawaiʻi, promoting childhood literacy with Kumusta Pusa, and also by reading to preschoolers! And of course, we can't forget all the fun I’ve had being able to celebrate our culture and heritage through wearing the beloved Filipiniana and Maria Clara proudly at cultural events, performing dance to Filipino songs, and eating delicious Filipino foods!
In 2023, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources and Environmental Management, with a Minor in Dance. I am currently an Irrigation Field Technician at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and a dance instructor at Hawaiʻi Dance Bomb. As you may guess through my current jobs, I have a passion for food and agriculture, dance, and performing arts. With my platform, "Rooted in Resilience: Food Security and Wellness," I am working on different projects, such as conducting food security interviews with experts in this realm, establishing food share opportunities, organizing community field days, and providing free dance workshops for the community. Coming from humble beginnings myself, I know that “giving back” to me means providing resources and opportunities for underserved communities, ultimately empowering our youth, bringing families together, and bridging the gap between generations in our Filipino community. This is my kuleana, and always will be.
To our next Miss Oʻahu Filipina, we are already proud of you for coming into this world to make a positive change in your community and to continue this rich legacy. This title is not about wearing a crown and a sash. It is about educating, inspiring, and uplifting the next generation of Filipinos. You are an example of what a strong, intelligent modern-day Filipina looks like. Represent Oʻahu and Hawaiʻi loud and proud! ♡
Yours truly,
India