Global Preservation Initiative began with two brothers, five friends, and an ambition to do something good for the world.

The spark came in 2021, after Solomon watched a documentary about the loss of coral reefs. He brought the idea of starting a nonprofit to his brother Aaron. Growing up snorkeling together on Oʻahu, they had both witnessed firsthand the decline of the reefs they loved.

Solomon believed they didn’t need credentials to make a difference—just passion and people willing to believe in the mission. Inspired by that conviction, Aaron left his professional ballet career to pursue the idea full time.

With the support of their friends, the excitement grew. Aaron began shaping the organization’s mission and hosting the very first community events in 2022.

In 2025, Solomon passed away at just 24 years old. His belief in people—and in the power of inspiring others—remains at the heart of GPI today. Aaron carries forward the passion GPI was born from by empowering young people and communities to protect the environments they love.