Photographer, Wish Manager, Father of Two.
This month, we're proud to spotlight a familiar face in the Coco Moon community: Abe. You've likely seen his work—he's the photographer behind many of our outdoor shoots. But Abe's impact goes far beyond the camera.
Born and raised in Waimānalo, Abe is now a husband and father of two, a Wish Manager at Make-A-Wish Hawaii, and a storyteller in every sense of the word. Whether he's creating space for keiki to just be themselves or helping families navigate some of life's hardest moments, Abe brings heart, presence, and aloha to everything he does.
🌴 Raised in Waimānalo, Rooted in Aloha
“I grew up surrounded by ʻohana—not just my immediate family, but aunties, uncles, cousins, neighbors... everyone really looked out for each other.”
Abe shares that growing up in Hawai‘i taught him the value of slowing down, being present, and appreciating life's small joys—like talking story or sharing a home-cooked meal. These values shape the way he approaches parenting today, with deep intention and a commitment to raising his children with aloha, kindness, and connection to culture.
💫 Make-A-Wish & Moments That Matter
As Wish Manager at Make-A-Wish Hawaii, Abe helps create hope-filled experiences for children facing critical illnesses. His role blends heart and kuleana—offering comfort and care to families when they need it most.
One wish story he carries with him is that of Matt, a young boy battling a brain tumor who dreamed of photographing the stars. With help from a local photographer, Darcy Fiero, and guidance from navigator Nainoa Thompson, Matt captured the night sky atop Mauna Kea and learned how his ancestors used the stars to find their way.
"That moment reminded me that even through hardship, there's so much resilience, wisdom, and strength in our youth—and in our island community.”
📸 Behind the Lens (and on the Ground)
Abe's magic behind the camera isn't just technical—it's relational.
"Kids are naturally curious and full of big emotions—and I think it's so important to honor that. I always try to treat them with the same respect I'd give an adult, while also recognizing the magic in how they see the world."
He always kneels down to their level to make eye contact, gain trust, and capture their world with empathy. Whether they're running wild or shyly taking their time, he gives them space to just be kids.
👨👧👦 The Joys of Fatherhood
"My favorite part about being a dad is getting to experience the world through my kids’ eyes. Everything is new, everything is magic—and it constantly reminds me to slow down and be present."
Whether it's reading bedtime stories or spending time at the beach, Abe cherishes the small, everyday moments that shape their bond. Fatherhood, he says, has made him more grounded, patient, and mindful of how he shows up—for his family and beyond.
💛 Dad Wisdom: The Power of Presence
Abe's greatest lesson from fatherhood is the importance of being fully present. It's a mindset he now brings into every part of life—from work, to relationships, to how he sees the world. That presence has taught him to lead with empathy, listen deeply, and meet people with compassion. He recognizes that everyone is carrying something, and "just like our keiki with their big feelings," he says, "meeting people with patience and understanding goes a long way."
“Kids don't care about your to-do list or deadlines—they just want you. That’s something I carry into everything I do. It’s helped me listen more deeply, connect more genuinely, and appreciate the moments that matter most.”
🌈 Coco Moon Faves
Of course, we had to ask: what's Abe's favorite Coco Moon product?
“Definitely the hooded towels—they're clutch for beach days and bath time. And the hoodies are a close second. I live in hoodies, so this is my gentle (but very real) nudge for an adult drop!”
He also gave a special shoutout to our Wayfinding print, created in collaboration with the Polynesian Voyaging Society.
“It's a beautiful nod to our navigational roots, and it's powerful to see that story woven into something our kids can wear and grow up connected to.”
Mahalo nui to Abe for sharing your story with us and for the care you bring to every frame, every family, and every moment you touch. We're honored to celebrate you this Father's Day season as our Dad of the Month!
To connect with Abe, you can follow him on Instagram at @hamb0y!
