Creating Opportunity Through Innovation

As an avid sailor, Tono discovered that many individuals with disabilities were excluded from the sport simply because traditional sailboats were not designed for them. Inspired by the possibilities, he decided to create an adaptive sailing program in New Jersey.

Together with his wife, Tiaa, he began researching accessible sailing technologies and discovered Access Dinghies, a revolutionary adaptive sailboat design developed in Australia that allows individuals with severe physical disabilities to sail independently.

Working alongside Jersey Shore Sailing Hall of Fame sailor Paul Coward, they founded Sailability New Jersey, an independent branch of Sailability World, a global nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of disabled and disadvantaged members of the community through the activity of sailing, regardless of physical, cognitive, or sensory ability. Through specially equipped boats, trained instructors, and a supportive environment, participants gain the opportunity to experience sailing in a safe, empowering, and inclusive setting.

The program goes beyond recreation by building confidence, independence, and community. Whether someone is stepping onto a boat for the first time or returning to the water with new challenges, Sailability New Jersey provides a pathway to skill development, personal growth, and the joy of sailing without barriers.

During a dinner event hosted by Prudential Financial, Tono and Tiaa shared their vision for an adaptive sailing program with a close friend who held senior leadership positions at the company. Inspired by the idea and its potential to transform lives, Prudential Financial stepped forward to sponsor the acquisition of four adaptive sailboats, making it possible for the program to launch.

The program traveled throughout counties across New Jersey and provided sailing experiences to hundreds of residents completely free of charge, including:

children and adults with disabilities

blind participants

at-risk youth

economically disadvantaged community members

senior citizens

The program became widely recognized for its impact and success, and it was eventually adopted and continued by Ocean County College, ensuring the long-term sustainability of adaptive sailing opportunities for future participants.

Through this experience, Tono saw firsthand how removing structural barriers and expanding access to knowledge and opportunity could transform lives.

Just as adaptive sailing technology opened the ocean to people who had previously been excluded, he began to recognize that financial knowledge and market literacy represented another frontier where access had historically been limited.

That realization would later lead to the creation of the Koda Institute of Market Technology, an institution dedicated to expanding access to financial intelligence, analytical training, and economic opportunity.