Håfa Brand represents unified Marianas

Håfa Brand aims to represent the people of Guam and CNMI as one through the style and designs of their products. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)

Håfa Brand specializes on a variety of apparel, headwear, accessories, and souvenirs that represent Marianas roots and dedication to culture. Born on Saipan but grew up in Guam, founder and owner Joseph Roy “JR” M. Sablan holds on to the vision to bring the two islands together through Håfa Brand.

“Throughout history, colonial powers have unintentionally divided the Marianas despite being geographically, an archipelago with people who share the same language and culture. As a Chamorro born on Saipan and raised in Guam, this inspired me to develop a brand considered a hybrid representing the Mariana Islands as one,” Sablan said.

“Our brand logo bears two question marks—one right side up and the other and inverted and upside down. Our name ‘Håfa’ is Chamorro both spoken in Guam and the CNMI and when translated to English is ‘what?’ Our universal code, 1341, is actually the sum of the area codes of Guam 671 and CNMI 670 creating a code for a unified Marianas,” Sablan added.

Established five years ago, Håfa Brand was able to grow the brand via e-commerce sales. “I chose retail business for a number of reasons. First, apparel is a form of expression and representation of oneself. For an islander who has moved away from their home island, apparel is a big way to represent where they come from. Second, style of clothing apparel can also bring together people who identify with it because apparel can bring people together, most especially if it represents something meaningful,” Sablan said.

Feel the unified Marianas spirit in every Håfa Brand clothing.

“Håfa Brand aims to tailor inventory that follows the various styles that appeal to its clientele. Products are designed to fit a variety of lifestyles incorporating class, sophistication and simplicity whether you are a surfer, musician, partygoer, or fashionista, we have an array of collections,” Sablan added.

According to Sablan, he is happy to see the fruits of his hard work as many look at the same vision that he sees in keeping the Marianas’ culture alive. “There are many people throughout Saipan, Tinian, and Rota who represent the Håfa Brand and appreciate our mission…This is a community that appreciates the meaning and mission behind the brand, enjoys products that represents where they are from, they like the unique concepts and designs of the products because it is the unified brand of the Marianas,” he said.

“Håfa Brand will continue to represent both the people of Guam and CNMI by providing products that exhibit unity of the people, culture, pride, and language… The brand always aims for people to feel the authenticity, unique character of the brand, and the meaning it represents apart from others,” he added.

For more information, call (671) 787-1341 or send them a message on Facenook or Instragram “Håfa Brand.”