Karen Ferrara, MBA, founder of Far West Architectural and award-winning luxury real estate advisor with Compass, has built a remarkable career fueled by determination, kindness and the Japanese business philosophy of Kaizen- a commitment to continuous improvement. In her prior junior and collegiate golf career at UH Manoa, she learned to identify weaknesses and practice to constantly improve until the weaknesses become a strength. Always learning and improving. “Better every day,” she says.
Consistently ranked among the top 1/2 of 1% of real estate agents in the U.S. and featured in Hawai‘i Business Magazine’s Top 100 Performers, Ferrara’s achievements showcase her exceptional skills and dedication.
“Can-do, won’t quit” Ferrara’s mantra highlights perseverance and a positive outlook as keys to her success. Ferrara believes in finding common ground in negotiations through empathy and kindness, embracing the Hawaiian philosophy of ‘i kahi a kakou e lauhoe aku nei,’ meaning ‘to paddle together with great strength and resolution’ to achieve shared goals.
Leaving behind a successful career in the corporate world over 20 years ago, Ferrara embarked on her entrepreneurial journey. Despite the daunting unknown and uncertain financial stability with a family to support, she was encouraged by fellow female entrepreneurs and sound professional advisors to pursue her dreams. Her advice: “You never know what you can accomplish if you don’t take the first step.”
Ferrara draws inspiration from colleagues, clients and leaders who exhibit a heart centered approach through exemplary acts of kindness and mentorship, such as giving a compliment, building bridges, connecting people, tipping more than necessary, making someone smile. These are the greatest small gifts of affecting big change in peoples’ lives.
Deeply involved in her community, Ferrara supports organizations like North Hawai‘i Hospice, Project Hawaii, the Malai Garden, the Hawai‘i Island Humane Society, and the Kahilu Theatre. You can also find her on the links at Mauna Kea, the beach at Kauna’oa, attending or hosting a wine dinner with wonderful family and great friends.
Karen may be reached at [email protected], www.karenferrara.com
Photography by: Courtesy of (from top): Ian Lindsey; Jonathan Russell; Andy Landgraph
