A special bond flourishes within the Best Buddies in Hawai’i community. Meet Paolo and Celine Arnobit, a dynamic brother-sister duo whose unwavering dedication to the mission of Best Buddies illuminates the path for inclusivity and friendship.

Paolo, a spirited individual with an intellectual and developmental disability, embodies the essence of joy and camaraderie. At 25 years old, he exudes enthusiasm for life and the connections he cultivates through Best Buddies. His recent participation in the Friendship Walk this past May was a testament to his adventurous spirit and passion for forging new friendships.
During the Walk, Paolo did laps around Magic Island, Ala Moana Beach Park, alongside his buddy, Brock Lyle. They also spend time together outside of official Best Buddies activities. Together, they hiked up the majestic Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail. For Paolo, the experience was more than just a physical feat—it was a testament to the bonds of friendship that transcend barriers.

Meanwhile, Celine, Paolo’s devoted sister and ally, stands as a beacon of advocacy and compassion within the Best Buddies community. Fearlessly taking the stage at the Friendship Walk, Celine delivered a poignant speech reflecting her profound belief in the mission of Best Buddies. “I just wanted more people to be able to see what I see if they are new to Best Buddies,” she explained.

For Celine, being a part of Best Buddies isn’t just about making a difference—it’s about embracing a shared vision of a world where everyone is celebrated for their unique gifts and talents. As a buddy herself, Celine forms a deep bond with Stephany Yee-Autele, whom she describes as an extraordinary individual whose presence enriches the lives of those around her. “Steffany is selfless, responsible, caring, thoughtful, and funny,” Celine says with a smile. Interestingly, Stephany has been friends with Paolo since middle school, and coincidentally, one of Celine’s best friends in high school was Stephany’s buddy. “I’m so glad I get to be her buddy now in the Citizens program,” Celine adds.

Their journey within the Citizens program exemplifies the transformative power of friendship, transcending boundaries, and enriching lives in profound ways. Through shared experiences and genuine connections, Paolo and Celine embody the core values of Best Buddies, inspiring others to embrace inclusion and kindness in their own lives.

As we celebrate the remarkable journey of Paolo and Celine Arnobit, let us be reminded of the boundless potential that exists within each of us to create a more inclusive and compassionate world.