Journey Breakthrough Tournament to showcase Pacific Islander Student athletes and career opportunities
HONOLULU – The City and County of Honolulu’s Office of Economic Revitalization (OER) will bring together more than 200 Pacific Islander student-athletes to take the court at the fourth annual Journey Breakthrough Tournament (JBT) 19 and Under Basketball and Volleyball Tournament from March 20 – 22, 2025, celebrating both sports and career development. The three-day spring break event will provide a competitive platform for youth while introducing them to educational and workforce opportunities that can shape their future.
The tournament will take place at two locations:
March 20 – 21, 2025 | 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Kalihi Valley District Park Gymnasium
March 22, 2025 | 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. | Palama Settlement
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi will attend the tournament and deliver remarks on Thursday, March 20, at 11 a.m., and Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam will deliver remarks on Saturday, March 22, at 10 a.m.
“Through my years of coaching, I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact sports can have on a young person’s life. I’m proud that this tournament provides a platform for our young athletes to showcase their talents and opens doors to educational and career opportunities during their spring break,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “This tournament is a testament to the City’s commitment to bringing resources directly into our communities – meeting people where they are to ensure access to engaging and impactful education and workforce development.”
“Sports don’t just build athletes – they build futures, and I’m excited to see our Pacific Islander youth shining on both fronts,” said Councilmember Tyler Dos Santos-Tam. “This tournament represents the perfect alley-oop from athletic excellence to career opportunity.”
More Than Just a Game
The Journey Breakthrough Tournament aims to empower young athletes by connecting them with career pathways in college, trades, and the workforce. The tournament will feature the Career & Community Court (CCC), where students and families can engage with local organizations offering career guidance and community resources. Attendees can also participate in the Career Expedition Quest, a fun and interactive activity to help students explore different professions.
“Voyagers of Tomorrow” Student Essay Contest
In addition to the tournament, students are invited to participate in the “Voyagers of Tomorrow” essay contest for a chance to win a gift card and present their essay at the tournament’s closing ceremony. The essay contest encourages students to think about their futures and how they can shape their paths.
For information on how to enter the essay contest, please visit: www.revitalizeoahu.org/journey-breakthrough-tournament
The submission deadline for the essay contest is Monday, March 17, 2025.
The Journey Breakthrough Tournament is a unique opportunity for young athletes to explore athletic and career opportunities in a fun and interactive environment. By connecting Oʻahu’s youth with career pathways in college, trades, and beyond, OER is preparing them to become the next generation of professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. Through this event, OER is proud to help build a more diverse and inclusive workforce on Oʻahu.
