Our Team
Ashley Kierkiewicz
Ashley Lehualani Kierkiewicz has deep roots in the Hawai‘i Island community where she was born and raised. Elected to the Hawai‘i County Council in 2018, she is currently serving her fourth and final term. Ashley is chair of the Policy Committee on Planning, Land Use, and Economic Development and Vice-Chair of the Policy Committee on Public Works and Mass Transit (PCPWMT). In 2023, she received the prestigious Public Leadership in the Arts Award.
Ashley’s dedication lies in empowering the community, fostering public-private partnerships, and activating the local economy so residents can thrive. She operates with an open-door policy, welcoming dialogue and collaboration with constituents. Known for her hands-on, boots-on-the-ground approach, Ashley drives and is part of community initiatives and partnerships to address pressing issues. She firmly believes that government’s role in building community resilience involves equipping residents with the necessary tools and support to take proactive action while minimizing bureaucratic obstacles. Ashley and her partner, Kaui Nakanelua, a Hawai‘i County firefighter, are raising their two children, Arya and Toby, in Hawaiian Paradise Park. Ashley has recently fell in love with running. She is a Hapalua Half-Marathon and Honolulu Marathon finisher.
Ku‘uhiapo “Hiapo” Jeong
Kuʻuhiapo “Hiapo” Jeong, Hawai‘i Island born and riased, proudly calls Puna his lifelong home. He received his early education at Ke Kula O Nāwahīokalaniʻōpuʻu from kindergarten through the 8th grade before transitioning to Kamehameha Schools Hawai‘i Campus, where he graduated in 2018. Continuing his pursuit of knowledge, Kuʻuhiapo attended the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, earning degrees in psychology and communication. He recently graduated with his master’s degree in public relations & reputation management from Biola University, a prestigious private Christian university in Southern California.
Kuʻuhiapo’s enthusiasm for hula, theatre arts, public relations, and community engagement is palpable. He actively seeks out opportunities to expand his understanding, cultivate meaningful relationships, and leverage his expertise to contribute to significant initiatives within his community.
Ku‘uhiapo currently serves as Legislative Aide for Council District 4, where he plays an integral role in helping to craft legislation and process Contingency Relief Fund requests. He utilizes his graphic design expertise to develop impactful branding for various office initiatives.
Ivory Quintal
Ivory Quintal, born and raised on the Big Island of Hawai’i, spent her formative years in the scenic region of Puna. She is a proud graduate of Pahoa High School, class of 2003. Her unwavering dedication to the community shines through the multitude of roles she passionately embraces.
Playing an integral role in local government as the Council Aide for District 4, where she helps address the needs and concerns of her community. Her dedication to fostering a sense of unity and support on the island is further demonstrated by her role in hosting a local Jiu-Jitsu tournament in Hilo, providing a platform for competitors from across the island to showcase their skills and passion for the sport. Currently serving as the Secretary Board Member for the Zonta Club of Hilo, an organization dedicated to empowering women through service and advocacy. In addition to her work with Zonta, she is the PTO President for Ha’aheo Elementary School, where she actively works to enhance the educational experience for students and support the school’s staff.
Residing in Hilo, Ivory enjoys a fulfilling family life with her partner, Ryan Jeffrey, and their three energetic boys: Rider, Rival, and River. Beyond her professional and volunteer commitments, Ivory cherishes traveling, reading, and spending quality time with her family. Her deep-seated love for her community drives her to volunteer in various capacities, continually working to make a positive impact on those around her.
