Meet Howzit Panda

Perry Panda was born different..

He was discovered as cub during a quiet research exchange tied to conservation work. While extremely cute, what made him extraordinary wasn’t his appearance, but his mind. From the beginning, Perry showed awareness, empathy, and language — but people noticed most was his friendliness.

A human family took him in and did exactly that. They gave him a loving childhood that allowed him to integrate with people and animals.

Perry went to school. Learned how to listen before speaking. Learned humor, patience, and how to navigate a world that often expects neat categories. He grew up knowing he was unusual, but that never stopped him from making friends.

As he got older, Perry felt drawn to places where people valued relationships with people and their environment. Cities felt busy and disconnected. The ocean felt calming and relaxed. Hawaiʻi, in particular, called to him — as a place where family, faith, and responsibility mattered.

When Perry finally made the move, he came with an open heart and mind. Fitting in was something he had to do his entire life and it was second nature. As he walked off the plane he was greeting with a lei, shaka, and "Howzit!"

He understood quickly that loving Hawaiʻi meant learning, observing, listening, before speaking. And when you speak, be honest and humble. If things get awkward, tell a joke and quickly move on. 

Perry studied the currents and tides, the winds and clouds. He talked to person, animal, fish, and bird as he traveled to each island, greeting everyone with a shaka and "Howzit".

Perry Panda lives at the intersection of worlds — panda by biology, human by upbringing, student by choice. His friendly nature, great sense of humor, and calming presence captures the hearts of everyone he meets.