New scholarship program aims to uplift Hawaiʻi LGBTQIA+ youth

The Hawaiʻi LGBT Legacy Foundation has launched a new scholarship program to support high school students who are planning secondary education.

The Rainbow Legacy Scholarship will be open to those who identify themselves within the LGBTQIA, which stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual, and MVPFAFF+, which is used to encompass the diverse gender, sexuality expressions and roles across Pacific cultures. The acronym stands for mahu, vakasalewa, palopa, fa’afafine, akavai’ne, fakaleiti (leiti), fakafifine, and more encompass the diverse gender, sexuality expressions and roles across Pacific cultures.

High school seniors may apply for the Rainbow Legacy Scholarship at the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation website until 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28.

“The Rainbow Legacy Scholarship is more than financial support—it is a celebration of leadership, resilience and dedication to Hawaiʻi’s future,” said Hawaiʻi Legacy Executive Director Randy Soriano. “These individuals will play a critical role in shaping Hawaiʻi’s future with diversity, equity and inclusivity at the forefront. This opportunity will help those who are committed to making a meaningful contribution to their communities through higher education.”

One student will be awarded $2,000 to help achieve their educational aspirations. Applicants must be rooted in Hawaiʻi Legacy’s vision of hope, equality, unite and service to the betterment of Hawaiʻi and those who live here.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be a high school senior who plans to go to college.
• Be a legal resident of the State of Hawaiʻi.
• Have at least a 2.5 GPA.

Scholarship Preferences:

• Students who self-identify within the LGBTQ+ community (allies are welcome to apply).
• Applicants demonstrating financial need.
• Students looking to stay in Hawaiʻi or plan to return to the Hawaiʻi community.
• Students with strong volunteer experiences and demonstrated service to Hawaiʻi.
• Candidates with strong letters of recommendation.

Applications may be submitted in English, ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi and Pasifika Language. To apply, visit the scholarships page on the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation website.

The Hawaiʻi LGBT Legacy Foundation is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to a legacy of hope, equality and unity. Founded in 2008, HLLF produces Honolulu Pride, hosts the LGBTQ+ Center Honolulu and creates educational programs to inform Hawaiʻi’s MVPFAFF/LGBTQIA+ community. Learn more at HawaiiLGBTLegacyFoundation.com.