Youth Engagement Specialist; Culinary

Posted Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 3:00 PM

Lili’uokalani Center (LC):

Informed by a deep understanding of the adolescent experience and grounded in Hawaiian culture, the new LC will provide Hawaiian youth with opportunities to connect to peers and mentors, receive supportive services, and discover pathways to passion, purpose, and prosperity. LC will be LT’s signature youth development hub for culture, creativity, technology, and play, and will serve as a resource center where youth can connect to vital supports and a vibrant community.

LC will be a safe space located in urban Honolulu where youth are inspired to pursue their dreams, including exploring pathways in the arts, sports, technology, and entrepreneurship while receiving wraparound support to help them reach their goals and become thriving adults. A primary function of LC will be to provide a space for young people to play, to learn, to find connection and inspiration, and to experience joy.

Job Purpose

The Youth Engagement Specialist, under the direct supervision of the Culinary Programs Team, will support program implementation and youth engagement for Lili’uokalani Center (LC). This role includes assisting with LC’s enrollment and engagement process and working in collaboration with Culinary programs, contributing to the development of special events , workshops, and providing general support . The Specialist will work directly with youth involved in LC programming, offering guidance and support, and may also be asked to provide administrative assistance and work in the kitchen as needed.

The Youth Engagement Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting and mentoring opportunity youth enrolled in our Culinary Arts programs. This position involves creating a positive and inclusive learning environment, fostering personal and professional growth, and ensuring participants are fully engaged and motivated throughout their training . All programming will integrate into the Center’s holistic wraparound support services and engaging arts, culture, and technology programming.

Collaborate with the Culinary Program Team to provide support to youth, and at times their ohana, through their enrollment process at LC (includes drop in, program enrollment, and events)

Work directly with youth involved in programming, providing guidance and support under the direction of the C ulinary Program Team .

Build and sustain trusting relationships with youth, ensuring that engagement strategies are rooted in authentic rapport that encourages participation, fosters belonging, and supports the overall success of LC programs

Assist with program planning, implementation and monitoring; this will include the facilitation of culinary groups.

Assist with the opening, closing, and monitoring of facilities

Prepare and close culinary program spaces

Contribute to the development of special events , workshops, and open houses, aiming to enhance engagement and participation

Assist with transportation, as needed

Provide administrative support as needed, ensuring efficient coordination and documentation of program-related activities

Participate in community outreach efforts, representing LC at various events and ensuring a strong and positive presence in the community, driving awareness and enrollment

Demonstrate cultural sensitivity, ensuring that programs are culturally relevant

Assist in collecting relevant data and contribute to preparing reports, helping to assess the impact and effectiveness of programs

Track and assess the progress of participants, providing regular feedback and adjusting program components as needed to ensure success.

Assist in recruiting new participants by conducting outreach activities, building relationships with community organizations, and promoting the program through various channels.

Foster a sense of community among participants by organizing team-building activities, events, and outings that promote collaboration and camaraderie.

Other duties:

Contribute to the Trust’s success by accepting new assignments, helping team members, learning new skills, and collaborating as we strive to attain the Trust’s strategic goals

Participate in continuing…