Kūkulu
Kumuhana
ʻo Kalae Mōmona
A return to collective memory, indigenous genius, and our reciprocal relationship with place - empowering Hawaiʻi's youth to embrace the kuleana of pono leadership within their respective communities.
Program
Highlights
Nānā ʻĀina
Learn to read environmental cues—such as water currents, wind, and clouds—to understand conditions in both upland and coastal areas.
Maoli Ola Village Life
Participate in the daily rhythms of communal living—cooking, cleaning, sharing moʻolelo, and collective responsibility.
Canoe Culture
Introduction to basic canoe practices, including use in riverine environments and transitions to shore.
Estuary and River Care
Engage in the protection, restoration, and stewardship of river systems and estuarine habitats.
Fishing and Feeding
Explore ancestral fishing practices, feed and care for local species, and understand the delicate balance of loko iʻa and nearshore ecosystems.
Cultural Site Visits:
Napoʻopoʻo loʻi
Pakaʻalana Heiau
Lokoiʻa Lalakea
Nānāue Waterfall
Ala Kahakai
The tradition of Kūkulu Kumuhana has provided summer camps that immerse Hawaiʻi's youth in a fully Maoli environment for over 30 years, encompassing various locations including Waipiʻo, Kaʻu, Puna, and Maui.
This generation of Kūkulu Kumuhana is now being led by those who grew up within the program, transitioning from yesterday’s youth to today’s kumu and mākua.
Deynna Honi Pahiʻō Tagabi
PROGRAM LEAD
Honi serves as the Head of Operations for Hōʻā Hawaiʻi, skillfully guiding the organization's daily activities with a steadfast commitment to excellence and cultural integrity. Notably, she stepped into the role of Interim Director during Lanakila Mangauil's travels associated with the Mauna Kea movement, showcasing leadership and adaptability during critical times. Honi currently leads the Kūkulu Kumuhana o Kalae Momona initiative in Waipiʻo Valley, focusing on cultural revitalization and sustainable community development. Her extensive experience includes directing the Hāmākua Youth Center in collaboration with KALO (Kanu o ka ʻĀina Learning ʻOhana) and running impactful programs for at-risk youth through the Hawaiʻi Department of Education. As the youngest daughter of esteemed community leader Kaʻiulani Pahiʻō and a lifelong friend of Lanakila Mangauil, Honi continues a family legacy of service, community empowerment, and cultural stewardship.
Kūkulu
Kumuhana
ʻo Kalae Mōmona
LOCATION: MOKUWAI WAIPIʻO VALLEY
CAMP DATES: JULY 5 - 19th 2025
OPEN TO: GRADES 6-12
APPLICATION DUE: MAY 30th, 2025
If you would like to complete a hardcopy of this form download it here, and physically give it to Lanakila Mangauil or email it to info.hoa.hawaii@gmail.com