Hawaii 2022 Young Entrepreneur of the Year

Rennell Saro and Danielle Hawxhurst of Kona Crust are Hawaii's 2022 Young Entrepreneurs of the Year. 

Rennell and Danielle’s journey is a story of grit.  Although they were operating several successful pizzerias in New York, they held on to their dream of opening a business in Hawaii for over ten years. 

They successfully bought and sold properties and used the proceeds to open their flagship, Kona Crust, authentic New York Style pizza in 2018.  It was a huge success and they’ve since opened two new locations, Knead & Bake, a premium offering in the Shops at Mauna Lani, and Waikoloa Pizza, an express version of Kona Crust.

They offer a generous hourly starting wage to new employees which include tips and benefits.  They set out to have a positive impact on the Big Island of Hawaii and they believe they’ve done just that.

They are now on the cusp of opening their fourth location, adding more jobs in the community! Not bad for thirty-somethings!