
Hawaiian Host Group Marketing Specialist Dayna Tamashiro and her team are revolutionizing the media landscape, proving that corporate branding can be innovative and engaging. Recently, the 2009 University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa graduate led a collaboration with Disney for the world premiere of Moana 2.
“This one-of-a-kind experience allowed us to craft a ‘chocolate voyage’ where hundreds of guests filled their Moana 2 themed custom chocolate box, with our delicious treats from our curated chocolate bar.” she said.

“This project was not only a creative dream but also a career-defining moment that brought together storytelling, artistry and collaboration at the highest level.”
Like many college students, Yamashiro found her passion later in her academic journey. When she first started at UH Mānoa, she thought she wanted to pursue fashion and enrolled in the Apparel Product Design and Merchandising Program.
“While I was passionate about fashion and creativity, I quickly realized that I didn’t have the technical skills, like sewing, and wasn’t entirely sure if it was the right path for me,” said Tamashiro. “That realization led me to switch to the business school, where I found a perfect balance in marketing.”
Today, Tamashiro and Hawaiian Host Group are capturing corporate humor in a way that resonates with a broad audience. She said they bring “a playful, relatable energy to the content.”
While reflecting on her UH journey, she shared a few favorite memories.
“Sharing lunch, grabbing coffee or tea, and simply hanging out on campus together made those days unforgettable. It’s funny how the simplest moments become the ones you miss the most,” Tamashiro said.
Learn more about other outstanding UH Alumni.
