We’re proud to introduce the ten incredible companies joining Cohort 10 of Mana Up, a Hawai‘i-based accelerator and economic development initiative that helps local product companies scale globally—while creating jobs, opportunities, and strengthening community across the islands.
From the waves of Hawai‘i to women around the world, Maoi Swimwear is more than just a swimwear brand—it’s a celebration of cultural pride, thoughtful design, and the deep bond between women and the ocean.
Now under the full ownership of Native Hawaiian artist and entrepreneur Cayla Moore, Maoi Swimwear continues to honor its roots in community, creativity, and authenticity. Every collection reflects her commitment to style, sustainability, and the empowerment of women who live with purpose—both in and out of the water.
A Brand Born from Connection
Maoi Swimwear was originally inspired by a surf trip and a shared desire to create something meaningful. Conversations between Cayla and founder Julia Muniz Robinson centered on creativity, representation, and the ocean’s power to connect. What started as a friendship became a brand vision dedicated to telling deeper stories through swimwear.
“We realized there weren’t many brands out there that reflected the lifestyle we actually lived—especially ones that felt thoughtfully designed and culturally grounded,” Cayla says. “That moment sparked everything.”
Rooted in Culture, Owned with Purpose
“We weren’t just trying to make another swimwear line,” Cayla adds. “We wanted to create something rooted in who we are—something that honors our connection to the land, to the water, and to the women who live their lives in motion.”
Cayla, a Native Hawaiian surfer with a background in art and business, brought a vision of intentionality and authenticity. Together with Julia, she built a brand designed for women like them—water women, creatives, and community builders.
Swimwear that Moves with You
From its earliest designs, Maoi Swim has focused on creating versatile, eco-conscious pieces that empower women to move freely and feel confident. With bold prints inspired by native flowers, ocean textures, and island colors, each collection reflects a deep reverence for place and self-expression.
Cayla’s favorite piece? The Juju Onesie —a sleek, flattering suit that transitions from surf to errands to yoga with ease.
“It’s everything we believe in—movement, ease, and effortless style,” she says. “It’s the piece I reach for every day.”
Challenges from the Islands
As with many Hawai‘i-based businesses, logistics have been a recurring challenge.
“There was one launch where our shipment got delayed, and we had to pivot fast,” Cayla recalls. “It was stressful, but it taught us how important it is to stay flexible, transparent, and rooted in your values—especially when things don’t go as planned.”
Despite those challenges, the brand has grown steadily—anchored by a passionate community and fueled by a shared commitment to doing things differently.
“We realized there weren’t many brands out there that reflected the lifestyle we actually lived—especially ones that felt thoughtfully designed and culturally grounded."
Hawaiian Culture at the Core
For Cayla, Maoi Swim is a platform for storytelling and cultural preservation.
“We don’t just borrow from Hawaiian culture—we live it,” she says. “From the way we design our prints to how we lead our business, we center our values: aloha, kuleana, and connection.”
Those values show up in everything from hand-drawn patterns to community-led events, including Maoi’s signature “goddess circles” —gatherings of like-minded women who love the ocean and care for the planet.
“That kind of impact is everything to me,” Cayla says. “It’s what makes all the hard parts worth it.”
A Brand that Grows with Purpose
One of Maoi’s proudest milestones was the launch of Maré Moana, its first resort wear collection. “It was a turning point,” says Cayla. “It signaled our evolution—from swimwear into a full lifestyle brand.”
Looking ahead, Maoi Swim’s vision is to expand thoughtfully—adding new pieces and accessories that support women in and out of the water, exploring deeper storytelling, and continuing to push forward on sustainability.
“We’d love to create physical spaces that bring our brand to life,” Cayla says. “But we’ll only grow in ways that honor our purpose, our people, and our place.”
Staying Grounded in a Fast-Paced World
Amid the pressures of entrepreneurship, Cayla stays grounded through nature and daily ritual.
“The ocean is my reset button,” she says. “No matter what’s going on, paddling out clears my mind and brings me back to what matters. I also journal and meditate every day. Those little rituals help me lead with clarity.”
When asked what people might not know about her journey, Cayla shares this: “People assume we had it all figured out. We didn’t. One of our boldest moves—introducing printed collections—felt like a huge risk. But it turned out to be one of the best decisions we ever made.”
Advice for Future Founders
For anyone thinking of launching a business in Hawai‘i, Cayla offers this:
“Start small. Stay true. Don’t rush. You don’t need to do everything all at once—what matters most is consistency and authenticity. And always lean into your community. Hawai‘i is built on relationships and trust. That will carry you further than any campaign ever could.”
Explore Maoi Swim’s sustainable swimwear and resort styles at maoiswim.com
Follow their journey on Instagram: @maoiswim
