OUR STORY . . .
Hifi was founded in 2006 by Melissa May White and Toby Portner, who were introduced by family members based on their shared passion for fashion. The two were energized by the proliferation of local fashion talent, events, and media yet cognizant that much of it was occurring in isolation. Inspired by incubators in other cities, the pair began conceptualizing a Hawai‘i fashion incubator as a central hub where members of the community can interact, collaborate, and collectively drive the local fashion industry forward.
Hifi’s network is almost 1,000 strong and growing. Our core planning group includes professionals from all facets of the industry that meet regularly to shape the organization and execute projects. A list of our active planning group members can be found on the Members page.
OUR MISSION . . .
Hifi’s mission is to inspire, promote, and sustain an integrated fashion community in Hawai‘i.
Hifi aims to raise awareness and appreciation of fashion as both art and industry through alliances with the arts,government, and business sectors, cultural organizations, and educational institutions.
Hifi’s membership program will foster collaboration and resource sharing within Hawai‘i’s fashion community,providing guidance and resources and linking local talent with the global marketplace.
Melissa May White is an environmental consultant by trade but has counted fashion as a first love since childhood. Her interest in design and journalism has led to an ongoing mentorship with fashion journalist Paula Rath, and since 2006 White’s writings and fashion spreads have regularly appeared in The Honolulu Advertiser and U Magazine.
Toby Portner has a threefold passion for fashion, wellness, and education. A Resource Teacher at the Hawaii Department of Education, Portner constantly explores ways of fusing her diverse interests. Proceeds from her clothing label, tobyp, benefit two emerging non-profits she is spearheading: Yoga in the Schools and the Open School Project.