Raenelle Torres is in her last year at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in environmental design at the School of Architecture, where her academic journey is deeply influenced by her upbringing in Hawai'i.

 

Born and raised in Hawai'i, Raenelle has witnessed firsthand the challenges that come with living in a place often romanticized as paradise, but with the harsh reality that local communities face due to the high cost of living and the scarcity of affordable housing. These personal experiences have sparked a strong interest in affordable housing and community development, driving Raenelle’s academic and professional pursuits.

 

Throughout her studies, Raenelle has actively sought opportunities to make a difference by

volunteering with organizations that provide housing assistance and support services to

low-income families. These experiences have given her valuable insight into the needs of

underserved populations and reinforced her commitment to addressing housing inequities.

Additionally, Raenelle has volunteered for multicultural programs such as Filipino for Kids,

embracing opportunities to learn from and support individuals from diverse backgrounds.

 

During her internship with CCRH and Kaua’i Habitat, Raenelle hopes to further develop the skills and knowledge needed to tackle the pressing housing issues facing communities in Hawai'i. She is eager to contribute to projects that promote affordable housing in rural and underserved areas, with the ultimate goal of creating sustainable and culturally relevant  housing solutions. Looking ahead, Raenelle envisions a future where she can continue advocating for affordable housing and work towards ensuring that Hawai’i remains a place where people, regardless of background or income, can truly call home. Through her work, Raenelle aims to make a lasting impact on her community by helping to create housing that reflects the unique cultural and environmental context of Hawai’i, while addressing the urgent need for affordability.