Kanela is a Social Work graduate from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, currently working toward her Social Work Provisional License (LSW). As a recipient of the Hawaii Education Loan Program, she is committed to bridging the gap between college and career.

In her role as a behavioral health coordinator at a youth program, she collaborates with organizations and state agencies to connect young adults with medical, mental health, and housing services. Her overall goal is to be a steady support for young adults as they navigate independent living, develop life skills, and build confidence to pursue new opportunities.