YP Wahine: We Need to Talk: Skills for Navigating Difficult Conversations We Avoid Sponsored by Aloha Termite & Pest Control

Join us for YP Wahine: We Need to Talk: Skills for Navigating Difficult Conversations We Avoid Sponsored by Aloha Termite & Pest Control on November 4, 2026 at OurSpace for an engaging conversation about one of the most challenging, yet important parts of professional life: having difficult conversations.

Led by Nikki Yamauchi and Evan Patek, co-owners of Tailored Leadership Solutions, this interactive session will explore what makes a conversation feel difficult, why we often avoid them, and how we can approach them with greater confidence, clarity, and intention. We’ll also discuss the benefits of addressing challenges head-on and how courageous conversations can strengthen relationships, teams, and self-confidence.

Then, put your new skills into practice! Attendees will have the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned through a small group workshop designed to build confidence and strengthen your ability to navigate difficult conversations in real-world situations.

Come ready to participate, practice, and leave with tools you can put to work right away.

Mahalo to the YP Wahine program sponsors, Aloha Termite & Pest Control for supporting this special event!

Registration includes heavy pupus and 2 drink tickets.

Attire: Business, Business Casual, and Aloha Attire for both men and women.

Featured Speakers:

Nikki Yamauchi, JD, PMP
Co-Owner
Tailored Leadership Solutions 

Nikki holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Loyola Marymount University, and a Juris Doctor from University of Hawaii at Manoa William S. Richardson School of Law. After passing the Hawaii State Bar Exam, Nikki practiced law in the commercial real estate space before moving to the banking industry, where she started out providing in-house counsel support. During her time in the finance industry, Nikki also earned her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, as she recognized there was a need for strong leaders who were able to make change and achieve results. As she grew her career in banking, she led projects and managed teams in various areas, gaining expertise in both the business and operational sides of banking. 

After 10 years leading teams and developing others in the banking industry, Nikki transitioned to consulting work to apply her skills and knowledge to diverse industries. She loves working with her clients to take conceptual learning from the classroom to real-world application, helping leaders put theory into practice. Nikki tailors her coaching to each leader’s individual development needs and focuses on the human-centric skills foundational to good leadership.

Nikki is actively involved with the Honolulu Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals program and sits on the March of Dimes Young Professional Board. She loves yoga and meditation and is a certified instructor in both disciplines.


Evan Patek
Co-Owner
Tailored Leadership Solutions 

After graduating from the University of Hawaii, Evan began his career in Hawaii's largest health insurance company. He advanced to the National Accounts Team before transitioning into employee benefits consulting. As an employee benefits consultant, he helped clients design comprehensive benefits programs, leveraging his knowledge of underwriting and insurance practices to reduce overall benefits costs while enhancing employee experience. Evan became deeply interested in all aspects of employee experience and engagement (not just benefits) during this time. 

Recognizing that strong leadership is crucial for positive employee experiences, Evan now consults with organizations on people-focused development. He specializes in leadership coaching and tailoring training content to help leaders apply new concepts in their daily work. Evan, a certified Employee Engagement Specialist, is committed to helping others find fulfillment. He also enjoys coaching boys' volleyball at his alma mater, Roosevelt High School.