Meet the
Ku Collective
More Than an Agency
A boutique firm, we work hand-in-hand with our clients to provide innovative marketing solutions. We are problem-solvers, storytellers, and strategic thinkers.
The Ku Collective is not just another creative agency, but a marketing consultancy that proudly works as your strategic partner. Our team in Honolulu, Seattle, and Los Angeles bring diverse, fresh, experiences and perspectives that inspire our approach to marketing.
How We Deliver Results
From the moment you partner with us we’ll dive into understanding your business, your brand, and come up with a strategy to effectively engage your audience through diverse and dynamic content.
01.
Discover
02.
Strategize
03.
Create
04.
Engage
05.
Optimize
The Collective
A collective of creatives and marketing professionals, Ku Collective is proud to provide expertise specific to each client’s unique needs. Need general marketing support? We can help. Just need social media marketing? We can do that too. Our team works together to help you achieve your specific marketing goals.
Our Team
CEO and Chief Storyteller
Mari Kam
A seasoned marketer and leader, Mari is known for her expertise in communication, team building, and brand storytelling.
With experience spanning organizations of all sizes, Mari has helped brands develop and execute effective digital marketing strategies that drive lead generation and business growth.
She specializes in hospitality marketing, having held marketing roles with Sheraton, Luxury Collection, and Westin brands under Marriott International, as well as independent Leading Hotels of the World properties including Halekulani and Waikīkī Parc Hotel.
Mari has a Bachelor of Arts in Business and English, Creative Writing from the University of Redlands, and a Master's in Management in Hospitality from Cornell Nolan School of Hotel Administration.
Chief Experience Officer
Daniel Aipa
Daniel is the Co-Founder and Chief Experience Officer at Ku Collective, where he leads the creative and graphic design efforts for our clients.
With a rich background in communications, the health and fitness industry, and extensive experience in community building, Daniel brings a unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking to our team.
His mission is to enhance brand experiences through innovative design and compelling storytelling. Daniel is also the founder of The Ku Project, which focuses on helping others stand taller and stronger each day through a holistic approach that's inspired by Hawaiian values.
Daniel holds a Bachelor of Arts in English, Creative Writing and a Master of Arts in Education from the Univeristy of Redlands.
Vice President
Ayaka Hong
Ayaka has over a decade of experience in marketing, brand development, and public relations across nonprofit, banking, education, and hospitality sectors. She provides tailored solutions that drive results and create meaningful impact. Known for her strategic approach and creative vision, she has developed and executed marketing initiatives that engage audiences and strengthens brands.
Her experience includes serving as the assistant vice president managing social media at Central Pacific Bank, leading marketing, events at the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii while also serving as the executive director for the Young Professional Program, and directing online initiatives for The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Communications from the University of Oregon.
Senior Consultant
Kristen Ka'uhane Gomes
Over the past decade, she has built a strong foundation in travel, hospitality, and customer service, working with respected marketing and public relations firms both locally and across the continental U.S.
Her experience includes developing and executing marketing and communications strategies for Marriott International’s portfolio of hotels and brands, as well as managing media relations, brand reputation, and crisis communications at Anthology Marketing Group.
Known for her creativity, organization, and collaborative spirit, Kristen is passionate about connecting with people, understanding consumer needs, and helping brands tell their stories authentically.