Participant Handbook
current announcements
Announcements
This page is updated as new announcements and action items are added.
GENERAL UPDATES:
Headshots are scheduled for our June 6 Session at Iolani Palace
TO DO BETWEEN NOW AND SESSION 4 ON APRIL 25
Please answer the Midpoint Evaluation Survey .
NEW: Learn about Paepae o He ʻ eia ʻ s efforts to engage community in collective kuleana: Pani Ka Puka (6:07mins) Pani Ka Puka: One Day; one Wall; 1,000 people (article) NEW: Prepare Oli Kāhea (permission to enter) We will be engaging in oli kāhea as a group to request permission to enter into this space, Paepae o He ʻ eia. We have selected “Mele Kāhea” as our oli kāhea. See next page for the full oli. If you are comfortable with this oli, please identify yourself on Friday and help lead the kāhea for the group. Your leo (voice), along with our hana (work), will be our first and important offering of the day. NEW: Session Prompt Reflect on a challenge or issue you're currently facing—big or small—where you feel a sense of kuleana. How might you lead or inspire others to take action with you? What would it take to turn your kuleana into a catalyst for meaningful change? Meet with your peer learning partner. Reflect on your top “take homes” from the March session
SESSION 4 INFO - APRIL 25
Location: Paepae o He’eia 46-077 Ipuka St, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA
Reminder: Interviewees for Session 4 Kēhau Lucas Leimomi Bong
Parking: See instructions on Pg. 3
Mālia Purdy Sarah Kama Leia Leong
What to bring: See Mākaukau Checklist on Pg. 3
Please wear your OLA program shirts!
PORTFOLIO OF LEARNING & GROWTH
Keep working on your Portfolio of Learning & Growth and be ready to share on June 13. For details, see the Portfolio Section on Pg. 57
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
IMPORTANT: SEE NEXT PAGE FOR MORE INFO
Announcements
This page is updated as new announcements and action items are added.
PAEPAE O HE ʻ EIA - ADDITIONAL INFO
PARKING:
The fishpond is in a residential area. Street parking is limited; don’t block driveways or mailboxes. We recommend carpooling, including parking at Windward Mall and riding together to the fishpond.
MĀKAUKAU CHECKLIST:
*Group will be reciting “Mele Kāhea” (see below):
MELE KĀHEA FOR 4/25 SESSION AUDIO: HERE
*MAHALO NUI KĒHAU FOR PROVIDING THE WORDS AND AUDIO CLIP!
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Resources
E Hō Mai: Watch here Oli Mahalo: Watch here I Ola No Ke Kino: Read here Kepa ʻ s Slides: View here The Song of Hilo Wayfinding Leadership: Ground-breaking Wisdom for Developing Leaders
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
program outcomes
Through participating in the ʻ Ōiwi Leadership Accelerator, participants will:
Demonstrate a deep commitment to driving positive change for Hawai ʻ i and the well-being of the communities in which they reside, actively engaging in initiatives that contribute to the betterment of society.
Cultivate a profound sense of pride in their identity as ʻ Ōiwi and as leaders in Hawai ʻ i, fostering a strong connection to their island and cultural roots. Develop enhanced confidence in seeking and applying for leadership positions, equipped with the skills and mindset necessary to excel in such roles. Experience heightened levels of self- awareness and self-compassion, promoting personal growth and resilience in the face of leadership challenges.
Attain a clearer and more comprehensive vision of their leadership identity, aligning
their values and aspirations with impactful leadership practices.
Feel invested in positive change for Hawai ʻ i and the communities in which they live
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
community agreements
Created by Cohort 2
Authenticity: Come as you are, and come where you’re at. We agree to accept you for all of who you are. Bring honesty for your peers and yourself. We will hold each other with aloha, care, trust and acceptance as people and in our intentions. Everyone is an expert in their own experience Be supportive of people’s vulnerability. Be open with non- judgment, and be willing to seek understanding before seeking to be understood Mind your “fixer”. Leave perfectionism at the door and practice self-compassion Grounding: We respect this sacred space, remembering what it’s like to be sacred. Hold space for the ʻ āina we ʻ re on and want to be on, past, present and future. Be grounded in that sense of lāhui for how you show up. Ancestral knowledge manifests in many ways—through storytelling, ceremony, practice, and intuition. We remain open to the many ways ʻ ike is shared and received. Honoring the ʻ ike, mo ʻ olelo and traditions that root us in our cultural identity. Be here, now – be present. Sense of connection: we are all here for a reason, we are all worthy. You've CHOSEN to be part of this 'ohana. Be 'ohana. We engage fully and take ownership of our contributions. Lu ʻ u iho: just try. Giv ʻ um. Try and see what happens. Be fearless when you step in this space and know that the group will catch you. Don’t be afraid to try. Brave, not perfect
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
community agreements (additions from March session)
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
cohort values
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
your program team
your program team
Ku ʻ ulani Keohokalole, M.A. Program Lead & Coach People Strategies Hawai ʻ i LLC kuulani@peoplestrategieshawaii.com
Ku ʻ ulani Keohokalole (she/her/ ʻ o ia) established People Strategies Hawai ʻ i in 2019 with the vision of growing the capacity of organizations to foster community-minded and people-oriented leaders. She trains, consults, and supports organizations across sectors and industries who are
looking to transform around the ways they engage people to achieve their mission. Ku ʻ ulani was grounded in the traditional Native Hawaiian cultural practice of ho`oponopono by her grandmother, who was a community-based practitioner. The art of reconciliation, and making things right, guides her approach to facilitation and consultation with organizations, stemming from the belief that clients hold the answers to their own challenges, that who shows up and how they show up matters, and that waiting for the moment is key. Ku ʻ ulani holds a B.A. in Ethnic Studies and Women’s Studies from UH Mānoa, an M.A. in Education Leadership, Politics and Advocacy from NYU, and an Executive Certificate in Organizational Consulting & Change Leadership from Georgetown University.
Elena Farden Program Facilitator Doctorate Candidate in Indigenous Leadership and Organizational Development, Chaminade University lenafarden@gmail.com Elena is a dedicated, service-focused professional with over 12 years of nonprofit experience in strategic visioning, community engagement, governance, and advocacy. Since 2018, Elena has provided over $51,000 in pro
bono services to Hawai ʻ i nonprofits that have helped organizations connect impact in their program storytelling towards funding and guide culturally-relevant dialogues for improved procedures and programming. Elena holds an MBA in nonprofit governance, is a certified facilitator through the International Association of Facilitators, and is in her dissertation year for her doctorate in Indigenous Leadership and Organizational Development. Outside of trying to decode secrets of nonprofit success, you ʻ ll find Elena as the ultimate supporter of Indigenous fashion designers, at the karaoke mic, or reigning as the queen of K-drama marathons.
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
your program team
Tiffany Chang, M.A. Executive Coach
Carved Paths Coaching LLC Tiffany@carvedpaths.com
Tiffany is a self-awareness and self-compassion coach for leaders. She helps leaders deepen their intuition by tapping into their multiple intelligence centers: head, heart and gut. Clients see results in getting unstuck, gaining clarity, building confidence, having more energy, and
experiencing transformation (not just change) in their lives. She is the founder of Carved Paths Coaching and brings over 14 years of experience in Learning and Development and Organizational Development. She has led teams in director/AVP level roles, and contributed to organization-wide initiatives in a variety of sectors including banking, retail, healthcare, real estate, and non-profit. This foundation helps her understand the demands that organizations and employees face in today's world. She founded her coaching firm in 2018 and has supported many leaders to honor their unique identities in their leadership. Tiffany holds a Master ʻ s degree in Learning and Organizational Change from Northwestern University.
Nalani Kaku Project Manager Kupu nalani@malieminds.com
Nalani Kaku is a Native Hawaiian professional dedicated to supporting local communities and environmental initiatives. A graduate of Kamehameha Schools Kapālama, she earned a Bachelor's in Business Marketing from UH West O‘ahu. Her career spans local businesses, startups, and
education, but her passion for environmental sustainability and community empowerment led her to Kupu, a respected conservation nonprofit. Nalani focuses on learning and development, creating opportunities for team growth and professional development, and strengthening operational systems to enhance efficiency and long-term success. She is an alumna of the ‘Ōiwi Leadership Accelerator Cohort 1, an experience that deeply shaped her identity as a Kanaka Maoli. With a deep respect for her Hawaiian heritage, she strives to blend modern opportunities with traditional values.
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
cohort 2 participants
Amber Pomaikaikalani Leon Guerrero
Amber Pomaikaikalani Leon Guerrero is a compassionate leader dedicated to empowering communities through equity, education, and connection. As a co-founder and Chief Equity & Engagement Officer at DreamHouse ‘Ewa Beach Public Charter School, she works to nurture homegrown leaders rooted in identity and purpose. She is a Nexus Equity Fellow and is pursuing a Master’s in Change and Organizational Resilience. Amber’s leadership is inspired by her love for Hawai ʻ i, weaving ancestral wisdom with innovative practices to create systems that uplift families and empower youth. Outside her work, she finds inspiration in hiking, exploring local coffee shops, traveling to expand her perspective, and reading books that encourage self- growth - always guided by the belief that true progress happens when we rise together. Cameron was born and raised in the Maunalua area. Her studies and career led her to San Diego, California and Seattle, Washington, where she earned a degree in environmental studies and worked for organizations that centered community, stewardship, and youth-led environmental action. Cameron found her way back to Hawai ʻ i and now works for Shriners Children's Hawai ʻ i. Cameron has always been passionate about helping her community and preserving our natural environment. She is excited for the ʻ Ōiwi Leadership Accelerator to grow her leadership skills and learn alongside many amazing people who want to contribute to a thriving Hawai ʻ i. Born and raised on O‘ahu, Chevelle Davis resides in the ahupua‘a of Hono‘uli‘uli. With a strong public health background and experience in sexual and reproductive health advocacy and Native Hawaiian health research, Chevelle holds a Bachelor's and Master's degree and is pursuing a Ph.D. in public health at the University of Hawai ʻ i at Mānoa. A recent graduate of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Policy Research Scholars program, she is dedicated to addressing structural inequities and promoting systems change. Chevelle is passionate about creating a future where communities feel safe and supported across Hawai ʻ i by addressing social, structural, and settler colonial determinants of health. She brings passion for community-centered policies informed by anti-racism, equity, and justice, with the goal of systems change. The eldest of six in a blended family, she enjoys traveling, eating ‘ono food, volunteering with ʻ āina-based initiatives, making memories with loved ones, and cuddling with her cat, Cleo.
Cameron Foy
Chevelle Davis
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Colby Sameshima
Colby Sameshima (she/her/ ʻ oia) is a systems change steward with four generations of roots in the ahupua ʻ a of Wailupe and the broader moku of Kona. She has been blessed to learn from many realms, from both the Western and Indigenous, the physical and spiritual. She has a double B.S. in Climate Sciences and Environmental Studies from Tufts University and an M.B.A. from UC Berkeley, but the most valuable knowledge she has learned has been from ʻ āina, kia ʻ i ʻ āina, and kahu ʻ āina. Her professional experience thus far spans social enterprises, entrepreneurship, technology, and impact investing, with experiences at Endeavor Global, Mana Up, Terner Housing Labs, Elemental Impact, and her own business Laua ʻ e Consulting. She is currently in the process of deepening her mana ʻ o in community organizing and policy, as Rep. Kim Coco Iwamoto ʻ s Legislative Aide & Committee Clerk. She believes her kuleana is to serve as a bridge and translator between varying viewpoints and stakeholders. Evan is a proud Native Hawaiian recognized among “40 Under 40” for bridging advanced technology with indigenous knowledge to foster equitable solutions rooted in Hawaiian values. A graduate of Kamehameha Schools Hawai ʻ i, he holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering—with minors in Fine Arts and Entrepreneurship—from the University of Portland, specialized in Modern Native Nations studies at American University through the Washington Internship for Native Students (interning at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Indian Energy and the National Science Foundation, where he focused on invention, knowledge transfer, and innovation), and earned a Certificate in Financial Management from Cornell University. As Director of Project Delivery at Shifted Energy, Evan deploys cutting-edge technologies in frontline communities, forges lasting partnerships to expand equitable access, and accelerates impact through internal innovation. He also sits on the DEI Council for the Association of Energy Services Professionals. Previously, Evan led sustainable infrastructure initiatives at Pacific Current and ENGIE. A dedicated cultural practitioner with Pua Ali ʻ i Ilima, he grounds his leadership in kuleana (responsibility) and a commitment to uplifting indigenous brilliance. Ikaika Perreira was born and raised in Kalāheo on the island of Kaua ʻ i. He is a graduate of Kamehameha Schools Kapālama, Brigham Young University Hawai ʻ i, Portland State University and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. His strong desire to raise his ʻ ohana in his ʻ āina hānau brought him back to Kalāheo, where they continue to live today. Ikaika brings 20 years of experience in education, specializing in students with special needs and served on the boards of Ho ʻ ōla Lāhui Hawai ʻ i, a health center dedicated to serving the Kaua ʻ i community. Ikaika now serves as Chief of Staff at Ho ʻ ōla Lāhui Hawai ʻ i, where he is committed to advancing the organization's mission of improving the health and well-being of Kaua ʻ i residents. He focuses on initiatives that ensure sustainability and community impact, envisioning a future grounded in Hawaiian health and connectedness.
Evan Castro
Ikaika Perreira
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Jess Kēhau Lucas
He kama no Kamāwaelualani, ʻ o Manokalanipō nō ia. Hānai ʻ ia i ka malu o Wai ʻ ale ʻ ale, ʻ o Kawaikini ka piko luna. No ke ahupua ʻ a i kaulana i ka lau kapalili a me nā wai ʻ ekolu, ʻ o Makaweli ho ʻ i. Milia e ka makani Waipao. Ho ʻ ōla i ka ua Kapa ʻ ahoa. A i ke alo ho ʻ i o Kanekula. Kēhau Lucas is an educator, advocate, and a fierce champion for lāhui vibrancy. Deeply rooted in the values of aloha ʻ āina and ʻ ike kūpuna, her work highlights the transformative power of culturally-grounded education in shaping kanaka identity and fostering resilience. With a deep aloha for ʻ ōlelo Hawai ʻ i and a commitment to perpetuating Hawaiian knowledge systems and practices, Kēhau empowers keiki and ʻ ohana to reconnect with ancestral wisdom, cultivating pride, purpose, and strength. She envisions a resilient and thriving lāhui where the richness of our ancestral traditions is woven with modern, innovative approaches to learning and community-building. Guided by this vision, she strives to create lasting change—advancing a Hawai ʻ i that uplifts and serves kanaka maoli. Born and raised in 'Ewa Beach and 'Aiea, Kayla is a graduate of the Kamehameha Schools Kapālama Campus and has served as a school counselor for the past 8 years. Starting her career in Bellevue, Washington, Kayla led multiple initiatives advocating for students of color to bring awareness to important conversations around racial equity. Moving home and now giving back to her roots in 'Ewa Beach, her work focuses on prioritizing students' mental and emotional health. Kayla's dedication at Ka'imiloa Elementary has contributed to the counseling department being a Recognized ASCA Model Program, which distinguishes school counseling programs across the United States. In addition, her counseling team continues presenting at a national level around their work creating systemic structures to support student attendance. Personally, Kayla fills her cup by dancing Tahitian for Ma'ohi Nui so that she can pour into her son Hausten's cup. Kayla holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Northern Colorado and a Masters of Education in School Counseling from Seattle Pacific University. Born and raised in Kailua, O’ahu, Kehau’s flight attendant parents developed her love of travel and her aim to embrace open perspectives. An alumni of Kamehameha Schools and Chaminade University, Kehau holds career experience in customer service, entrepreneurship, human resources, fitness, nonprofits, and general operations management and leadership. Kehau enjoys quality time with her two children (17 & 11), husband (she’s a proud fire wife) and two dogs, and feels fortunate to have had the opportunity to truly develop deeper bonds with them during their five years living in Naples, Italy and exploring the bigger world around them. Since her return to Hawai ʻ i, she has been looking for ways to re-ground herself in her home and solidify her strengths and capabilities for the best part of her career path. Being consistently in a leadership role, she has learned where improvements are needed and is excited to take on that challenge with her peers in the ʻ Ōiwi Leadership Accelerator program.
Kayla Chung
Kehaulani Volhein
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Ke ʻ ōpū Reelitz
Kepa Barrett was born and raised on the islands of O ʻ ahu, Maui, and Hawai ʻ i. His family enrolled him in Ke Kula Kaiapuni ʻ o Waiau, an elementary school where he was immersed in ʻ Ōlelo Hawai ʻ i. After graduating from Kamehameha Schools, Kepa earned a BA in Environmental Analysis and minored in Economics from Pitzer College in Claremont, California. He began his journey with Kupu nearly 14 years ago when he participated in Kupu’s Summer Program. Kepa served four years as a Program Coordinator and nearly four years as an External Affairs Officer. He also owns and operates his own online retail business called AINA Co. – Aloha In All Ways Company – whose mission is to serve people with high quality, environmentally-conscious products, along with providing business mentorship & leadership to others. Kepa is deeply passionate about ʻ Ōlelo Hawai ʻ i, Mālama ʻ Āina, and encouraging others to connect to a deeper sense of purpose in their lives. Landon Opunui serves as the Executive Director, Medical Director, and Naturopathic Physician at Nā Pu ʻ uwai Native Hawaiian Health Care System, where he integrates traditional Hawaiian health perspectives with modern medical practice. Nā Pu ʻ uwai provides comprehensive healthcare services, programs, and resources to the rural communities of Moloka ʻ i and Lāna ʻ i, ensuring culturally responsive care that prioritizes disease prevention, education, health promotion, and empowerment. Passionate about improving access to quality care, Landon blends clinical practice, executive leadership, non-profit service, and community advocacy to advance the health and well-being of Native Hawaiians. Ke ʻ ōpū Reelitz has made her career a love letter to her three young kids. She firmly believes that when Native Hawaiian families in Hawai ʻ i thrive, everyone thrives – a belief that has driven her career in advocacy, communications and policy. Over the last decade and a half, she has worked for state government agencies—the Dept. of Human Services, the Executive Office on Early Learning and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs—non-profit organizations like Hawai ʻ i Children's Action Network and MANA Magazine. She served as the Director of Policy and Strategy with Papa Ola Lōkahi. Born and raised in Kāne ʻ ohe, she is lucky to call it home once again. Ke ʻ ōpū is a proud Kamehameha Schools Kapālama graduate, and holds a B.A. in political science and international studies from Loyola University Chicago and a J.D. from University of Arizona Rogers College of Law.
Kepa Barrett
Landon Opunui
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Leia Leong
Grounded in a passion for bridging technology and culture, Leimomi is a designer who has cultivated a multi-hyphenate life path. With a background in linguistics, languages, and literature at U.H. Mānoa, she has translated her love for storytelling into public radio, a small design consultancy, Naeolokani, and eight years of contributions as the former COO of the vinyl- focused record label, Aloha Got Soul. Shifting from analog to digital—admin to builder—Leimomi has pivoted into the community-serving tech space as a developer, making a core commitment to uplifting the lāhui by stewarding tech that honors heritage while embracing innovation. She is currently a Full Stack Developer at Purple Mai ʻ a, working to further the organization’s mission to "empower culturally grounded technology makers" in Hawai ʻ i. Born and raised in Kealakekua, Leimomi now resides in Honolulu. Maka Gibson (she/her) was born and raised in ʻ Ewa Beach, but now calls Kāne ʻ ohe home. She is a proud graduate of Kamehameha Schools Kapālama and received her bachelor’s degree in politics from Willamette University. Philanthropy has been a guiding theme in her life. While at the Oregon Community Foundation and the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington, Maka co-designed and implemented equitable grant programs and cultivated relationships with community-based organizations and leaders. As a Program Officer at Resources Legacy Fund, Maka leads their environmental equity and justice programs in Hawai ʻ i. She is excited to mālama ʻ Āina and to partner with and uplift local communities to ensure that our keiki and our mo ʻ opuna can thrive. Maka’s leadership journey is inspired by many mana wāhine, both past and present, who have nurtured and shared their mana ʻ o with her so graciously. She is motivated to give back to our kaiāulu and to foster the next generation of ʻ ōiwi leaders, including her young daughter, Mahina. Leia Leong is the Director of Operations of Ke Ola Mamo, Native Hawaiian Healthcare System, on the Island of Oahu. She holds a Masters in Industrial Organizational Psychology from the University of Argosy. Leia served Hawai ʻ i’s communities facing severe and persistent mental illness for 11 years before making the pivot to Native Hawaiian healthcare. Her love and determination to provide overall wellness and education to her lāhui brought her to Ke Ola Mamo, where she now manages the overall operations of the organization. Born on the island of O’ahu and raised with traditional Hawaiian values and beliefs, she continuously infuses her Native Hawaiian upbringing in all that she does. She is married and has five keiki, and all she does professionally is with the future of her keiki in mind.
Leimomi Bong
Maka Gibson
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Makanalani Malia Gomes
Dr. Mālia Purdy was born in Fort Polk, Louisiana and raised in Waiehu, Maui. She attended Pūnana Leo O Maui, Kula Kaiapuni O Maui ma Pā ʻ ia & Kalama, and graduated from Kamehameha Schools Maui. She then went on to receive her BS in Biology at Pacific University, MPH in Native Hawaiian Health and PhD in Community-Based & Translational Research at the University of Hawai ʻ i at Mānoa. Dr. Purdy ʻ s journey at Hui No Ke Ola Pono started in 2022 as the Executive Director and she believes her path was set forth by her kūpuna. She descends from a line of advocates and educators, as her tūtū was part of the pioneer group that fought for Hawaiian language and culture to be taught in public schools and was a lā ʻ au lapa ʻ au practitioner. Dr. Purdy is a true local girl who loves going to the beach, chasing sunsets, and always trying to find the water wherever she is in the world. Makanalani Malia Gomes is a Kanaka Maoli Filipina storyteller, land and water defender, and emerging healer born and raised between the moku of ʻ Ewa, O ʻ ahu, and Puna, Hawai ʻ i. She is connected to local and global decolonization movements, currently serving as the inaugural fellow at Ban Ki-moon Foundation, with kuleana to advance initiatives for Indigenous and Native Youth, with a focus on gender equity and climate change. In the past, she served as a co-chair of the UN Global Indigenous Youth Caucus. She is part of a team of Kānaka Maoli women working on the second report of the Murdered Missing Native Hawaiian Women Girls and Māhū Task Force, making visible the experiences of violence facing these communities, and is also a core community organizer of Af3irm-Hawai ʻ i. In her downtime, she enjoys time at the beach, planting and playing in her backyard, cooking, baking, thrifting, or going for a cruise around the island. Makanalani will graduate with her Master’s in Hawaiian Studies from UH Mānoa in May.
Malia Purdy
Paige Miki Kalāokananiki'eki'e Okamura
He keiki papa no Māeaea, Pa ʻ ala ʻ a Kai, Waialua, O ʻ ahu, Paige Miki Kalāokananiki ʻ eki ʻ e Okamura - also known as “DJ Mermaid” - is the Training Manager for the Pacific Region Training & Technical Assistance Center, which is a resource of the Administration for Native Americans (ANA). Her primary responsibility is to work with and support Native-serving, Native- led nonprofits across the Pacific in Hawai ʻ i, Amerika Sāmoa, Guahan, and the Northern Marianas Islands in applying for large Federal grant funding from ANA. Her years of education and experience in 'ōlelo Hawai ʻ i research, translation, radio broadcasting, and education are what guide her other role as a Commissioner on Culture & the Arts for the City & County of Honolulu and as the on-air host of Hawai ʻ i Kulāiwi on Hawai ʻ i Public Radio. He keiki aloha ʻ āina, a product of the ʻ āina and community that raised and nurtured her, she is a strong advocate for all kupa o ka ʻ āina. Paige is a graduate of Punahou School with her BA in 'Ōlelo Hawai ʻ i from the University of Hawai ʻ i at Mānoa and is currently pursuing her MA in ʻ Ōlelo Hawai ʻ i.
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Peter Tuiolosega Silva
Peter Tuiolosega Silva (he/his/oia) is the CEO of Kumukahi Health + Wellness on the island of Hawai ʻ i. Tui has been an advocate of the LGBTQ+/māhū community for over 25 years. He is the co-founder of community action groups, such as Na Mamo o Hawai ʻ i and UTOPIA Hawai ʻ i on O'ahu. In his past work, Tui also served as an epidemiologist for the Hawai ʻ i Health Department and a capacity builder for the Office of Minority Health in the Pacific. Tui was part of the inaugural Hawai ʻ i Alliance of Nonprofit Organizations (HANO) Fellows cohort, and in 2023 was recognized as a Pacific Business News Business of Pride Honoree. He and his partner reside in Hilo, where Tui was born and raised.
Sarah Kama
Sarah Kama, a graduate of Kamehameha Schools and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, has built a distinguished career spanning over 17 years in high-profile roles across music, financial services, consumer packaged goods, and asset management industries. She excelled in financial forecasting and strategic analysis, leading transformative forecasting processes at multi-national corporations such as Sony Music Entertainment, American Express and PepsiCo. Sarah’s connection to Hawai ʻ i is a central aspect of her professional and personal life. Born and raised in Honolulu, she is deeply committed to contributing positive change to Hawai ʻ i. In her new position as Director of Finance at Partners in Development Foundation, Sarah will apply leadership practices and learnings from the ʻ Ōiwi Leadership Accelerator to further the impact of her extensive financial expertise in overseeing the foundation’s financial strategy, managing budgeting and forecasting, and supporting PIDF’s mission to empower and uplift communities throughout Hawai ʻ i.
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
program journey
program journey at-a-glance
Month
Activities
January 24 - Orientation January 31 - Session #1: LEADING SELF: UNEARTHING LAYERS OF OUR IDENTITY THRU KINOLAU
January
February 28 - Session #2: LEADING IN COMMUNITY: WAYFINDING 1:1 coaching session Meet with your peer learning partner March 28 - Session #3: LEADING SELF: HUAKA ʻ I OF THE ECOLOGICAL SELF 1:1 coaching session Meet with your peer learning partner April 25 - Session #4: LEADING OTHERS: KULEANA AS A CHANGE CATALYST 1:1 coaching session Meet with your peer learning partner May 16 - Session #5: LEADING OTHERS: FACILITATION & INFLUENCE 1:1 coaching session Meet with your peer learning partner
February
March
April
May
June 6 - Session #6: LEADING IN COMMUNITY: CONFLICT RESOLUTION & RESILIENCE June 13 - Closing Hō’ike
June
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
LEADING SELF: UNEARTHING LAYERS OF OUR IDENTITY THRU KINOLAU Beginning our leadership cohort journey together, participants will introduce themselves to the group through artifacts that represent their identity. Together, we will learn how to make lau lau and unearth layers of "lau" connections in leadership. Discovery of self and introduction of self to the larger group will take place through kinolau (kino "body" and lau "many") or manifestions of forms in nature, surroundings, environment, and artifacts of the leader ʻ s choosing. We will visit Nāoneala ʻ a at Kāne ʻ ohe Bay, the shores where La ʻ amaikahiki arrived from Tahiti, and weave in stories and values about his leadership. Leaders will walk away with a stronger connection to their environment and kuleana while sharing intimate stories about who we are and why we are here. LEADING IN COMMUNITY: WAYFINDING ʻ O nā hōkū nō nā kiu o ka lani. This experience, which takes place on both land and water, will allow leaders to immerse themselves in the understanding of leading community through the lens of a wayfinder. Learning from kānaka who have sailed on Hōkūle ʻ a and its sister wa ʻ a Hikianalia, leaders will learn both practical and metaphorical lessons from being out on the ocean and using keen evaluative, analytical and observational skills. How does one assess their progress and that of their team or organization? How might you evaluate the winds and tides to better understand where you might need to pivot and change course? We will learn more about how you kilo - look for the signs - and use those key indicators to get feedback, and then use that feedback to inform your work.
Ability to reflect on personal history, story, and relationships Capacity to navigate and build connections with the land, community, and environment Skill in identifying and nurturing leadership strengths and gifts Capability to integrate personal perspective into leadership journey and interactions with others
Self-awareness
Emotional intelligence
Jan 31 In-person 8:30am - 4:30pm: Meet at YWCA Kokokahi 45-035 Kaneohe Bay Dr, Kaneohe, HI 96744
Pilina (relationship) building Leadership identification and development
Adaptive Leadership
Systems Thinking
Maintaining an open and inquisitive mindset that encourages continuous learning, exploration of new
Foresight and Visioning
Feb 28 In-person 8:30am - 4:30pm: Meet at Kanehunamoku Voyaging Academy, 47-705 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA
Strategic Planning and Execution
ideas, and the willingness to experiment and adapt
Community Engagement and Collaboration
Risk and Opportunity Management
Capacity to inspire, mobilize, and guide
diverse groups toward a shared vision
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
LEADING SELF: HUAKA ʻ I OF THE ECOLOGICAL SELF
Between the first and second sessions, leaders will have had a chance to go deeper with an executive coach and explore their desired leadership journey. In this second in-person gathering, leaders will embark on a transformative exploration inspired by the saga of Hi ʻ iakaikapoliopele and illuminated through traditional and modern mixed art methods. The purpose of this session will focus the leader ʻ s story as catalyst for action, transition, transformation, and integration of their personal and professional journey in visual form, guided by Kānaka artists to share designs, motifs, and methods for leaders to help articulate their gifts and leadership narrative. LEADING OTHERS: KULEANA AS A CHANGE CATALYST Catalyzing others effectively to make change is a key skill and kuleana as a leader. In this place-based session, leaders will immerse themselves in working at a 800 year-old fishpond and learn about how its caretakers were able to gather 2,000 people from the community to work together on one day to pani ka puka - close the fishpond wall! We will glean the lessons they learned and weave in Western concepts around change management, and apply it to thinking about how we as leaders catalyze any group - whether it's a community or employees in a workplace - in alignment with the overaching goals, towards collective accomplishment. Ho ʻ oniho ka niho, Paepae ke alo, Pani hakahaka, Pōhaku ka papale, Ua pani ka puka!
Mar 28 In-person 8:30am - 4:30pm: Meet at Windward Community College
Articulating leadership purpose within the context of sense of place, relationships, and connections
Ability to articulate personal leadership
purpose and motivations
Cultivating and expanding a
Skill in expressing leadership journey through narratives and stories
leadership worldview inclusive of an ʻ Ōiwi worldview
Process Orientation
Mindset Awareness
Self-Awareness
April 25 In-person 8:30am - 4:30pm: Meet at HE ʻ EIA LOKO I ʻ A, 46-077
Social Awareness
Environmental Cognizance
EQ (Emotional Intelligence) Asking Good Questions
Capability to navigate the complexities of an organization, including understanding its culture, politics, and how to influence it effectively
‘Ipuka Street, Kane`ohe, HI 96744
Observation (Kilo)
Discernment
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Understanding of the importance of individual contributions to collective goals. Knowledge of community dynamics and the interconnectedness of individual and collective efforts. Awareness of the broader impact of actions on the community as a whole. Emotional resilience navigating through difficult dialogues and conflict Demonstrating leadership that is grounded in ethical principles Courageous leadership practice for regularly engaging, negotiating, and holding space for dialogue that may or may not have clear closure Demonstrating resilience in the face of setbacks
LEADING OTHERS: FACILITATION & INFLUENCE Holding space for important conversations is a critical skill of any empathic and people-centered leader. In this session, participants will learn the nuances of effective facilitation techniques, including active listening, conflict resolution, and learning to nalu around group dynamics. Through hands-on exercises and role- playing scenarios, attendees will have the opportunity to practice facilitating discussions and activities. We will delve into strategies for cultivating influence and persuasion, equipping participants with the tools to inspire and motivate teams towards shared objectives . LEADING IN COMMUNITY: CONFLICT RESOLUTION & RESILIENCE One need not look further than the story of our Queen Lili ʻ uokalani to find one of Hawai ʻ i ʻ s strongest examples of courageous leadership in the face of conflict. In more modern times, kānaka who traverse sticky and controversial issues within the walls of our State government have an ongoing, challenging responsibility to try and balance multiple perspectives while making decisions. This session will take us to ʻ Iolani Palace and the State Capitol, where we will hear directly about these examples, and be able to translate those lessons of conflict resolution and resilience in the face of controversy and pushback to the work we manage each day as leaders in our own lives and organizations.
May 16 In-person 8:30am - 4:30pm: TBA
Empowerment
Collaboration
Creativity
Decision-making
June 6 In-person 8:30am - 4:30pm TBA
Facilitating Courageous Conversations Negotiation and Mediation
Active Listening and Empathy
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
CLOSING OUT THE JOURNEY In this final session, each leader will share how their leadership plan reflects the wisdom, values, and experiences of Hawai'i. This culmination serves as a testament to months of immersive cultural experiences, profound learning, and the forging of lasting bonds. Our closing session celebrates the collective achievements, resilience, and refreshed leadership capabilities cultivated on this learning journey.
Presentation Skills
June 13 In-person 3:00pm - 8:00pm: Meet at Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Ho ʻ okupu Center
Ability to engage in reflective practice
Portfolio Development
Feedback Reception and Reflection
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
executive coaching
executive coaching
Coaching is a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires clients to maximize their personal and professional potential. The process of coaching often unlocks previously untapped sources of imagination, productivity and leadership. - International Coach Federation
Purpose of Coaching in This Program:
We provide a personalized, 1:1 additional support in your journey to help you identify your values and goals, create a tangible action plan, and foster personal accountability for achieving those goals. Both coaches, Tiffany Chang and Ku ʻ ulani Keohokalole, are experienced executive coaches with training from credentialed professional coaching organizations - the International Coach Federation and Co-Active Training Institute, respectively.
“Coaching has helped me find and be my authentic self. With coaching, there is a fundamental relationship of confidentiality with Tiffany who is there to guide me and hold me accountable to what I say and what I do. Coaching has helped me identify my own strengths and weaknesses, and ways to overcome challenges.”
“If you’re seeking a transformational journey towards self reflection and development, I cannot recommend coaching enough. Her empathy and commitment to my growth was a catalyst for positive change in my life.”
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
coaching session structure
Coaching sessions are one on one, between you and your selected coach. Your coach stays with you for your entire journey. You are responsible for tracking your insights, learnings and action steps in your coaching log. 4 (four) 1:1 sessions with your coach are available to you, designed to support your learning journey
Session 1: Feb
Session 2: March Explore learnings
Session 4: May Explore takeaways & next steps
Session 3: April Explore learnings
Explore your intention and vision
Getting Started with Coaching
Sign up for your coaching using this link Use the scheduling link to book your sessions You are responsible for booking and using your coaching sessions Give a minimum of 24 hours, preferably 48 hours notice to cancel/change your session Come prepared for each session
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
tracking coaching insights & learning You will each get a google link to your personal ho’okolo log
peer learning partners
Purpose: The purpose of having peer learning partners throughout this journey is to: have a space for vulnerability, reflection and shared learning hold each other accountable for goals and actions that you want to achieve create deeper connections with other cohort members How it will work: Work with your partner(s) to schedule a time that works best for you Meet with your peer reflection partner(s) once a month for 30-60 mins You can meet via phone, zoom or in person - your choice! Show up for each other, encourage each other, ask each other thoughtful questions, and consider yourself a support in each other’s journey
Discussion Prompts for Your Peer Learning Conversations: What have you learned about yourself & your situation since the last session?
Peer Learning Partners:
Malia Purdy & Kēhau Lucas Ke ʻ ōpū Reelitz & Evan Castro Ikaika Perreira & Sarah Kama Kayla Chung & Chevelle Davis Leimomi Bong & Maka Gibson Kepa Barrett & Landon Opunui Kehaulani Volhein & Leia Leong
Paige Miki Okamura & Colby Sameshima Makanalani Gomes & Peter Tuiolosega Silva Amber Pomaikalani Leon Guerrero & Cameron Foy
sessions
Session 1 January 31, 2025 Leading Self: Unearthing Layers of Our Identity Through Kinolau Beginning our leadership cohort journey together, participants will introduce themselves to the group through artifacts that represent their identity. Together, we will learn how to make lau lau and unearth layers of "lau" connections in leadership. Discovery of self and introduction of self to the larger group will take place through kinolau (kino "body" and lau "many") or manifestions of forms in nature, surroundings, environment, and artifacts of the leader ʻ s choosing. We will visit Nāoneala ʻ a at Kāne ʻ ohe Bay, the shores where La ʻ amaikahiki arrived from Tahiti, and weave in stories and values about his leadership. Leaders will walk away with a stronger connection to their environment and kuleana while sharing intimate stories about who we are and why we are here.
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Today’s Desired Outcomes
January 31, 2025
By the end of our time together you will...
know who is in the room, and feel connected to one another feel “enrolled” into the program (mentally, emotionally, spiritually, etc…) have experiences that spur reflection on your leadership journey and where you want to go express your story/identity journey through laulau & kinolau learn key concepts of Alii leadership from La'amaikahiki's story (Nāoneala ʻ a)
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Today's Guest Speakers
Tatiana Tseu Fox Tati Fox is the Director of the ʻ Ōiwi Leadership Institute at Kamehameha Schools. She is a kupa of Honouliuli in ‘Ewa on O‘ahu, mother, teacher, and kumu hula, and her ‘ohana have been cultural practitioners serving the lāhui for many years. She is an advocate for diversifying educational opportunities for the youth
of Hawai ʻ i, with over 15 years of work-related experience in designing and implementing educational programs for keiki to kūpuna both in formal school settings and community networks, half of which she has held positions of leadership and management. She holds a Bachelor ʻ s degree in Hawaiian Studies, an MEd in Curriculum Studies, and an MEd in Education Foundations Private School Leadership from the University of Hawai ʻ i at Mānoa.
Kaulana Vares Kaulana best describes himself as a, “father, farmer, and fire fighter.” A former educational assistant with the University of Hawai ʻ i at Mānoa, Kaulana facilitated groups visiting and learning at Ka Papa Lo ʻ i o Kānewai, working with a wide range of community and university members, ranging in age from toddler to elders to develop an understanding of Hawaiian water resource management and the identification and application of Hawaiian Kalo varieties. His teaching journey also took him to Kamehameha Schools Kapālama where he
served as an Cultural Specialist managing a farm to table program at the Ka ʻ iwakīloumoku Hawaiian Cultural Center, building students relationship to ʻ āina thru the preparation of Hawaiian food and instilling cultural values by turning hands down into the soil. Kaulana is an accomplished hula dancer with Hālau Nā Kamalei o Līlīlehua for 21 years. He has proudly served with the Honolulu Fire Department for the last six years. He and his wife Kanoe lovingly and proudly raise their three keiki here in Ko ʻ olaupoko, O ʻ ahu.
Aunty Emalia Keohokalole Emalia was born in Hawai ʻ i to Hawaiian-speaking parents, raised in Hawaiian traditions by grandparents whose only language was Hawaiian and grew up hearing it spoken everyday. She is a musician, researcher, and a retired lecturer and tutor of the Hawaiian language at Windward Community College, UH. She is a graduate of the University of Hawai ʻ i at Mānoa in Linguistics and holds a graduate degree in Second Language Studies & Teaching Theory with a focus on the Hawaiian Language. In
retirement she continues to co-teach an intermediate Hawaiian language class on Zoom and two other adult classes. Her family has been participating in the reburial and reinterment of Native Hawaiian ancestral remains on O ʻ ahu, Maui, and Hawai ʻ i island since 1990.
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
January 31, 2025
Discuss With The Person Next To You As You Make LauLau
When you think about the laulau as a metaphor for who you are...
WHAT ARE THE “INGREDIENTS” INSIDE OF YOU? IN OTHER WORDS, WHAT ARE THE VALUES, CHARACTERISTICS, DESIRES, ETC. THAT MAKE YOU WHO YOU ARE?
WHAT IS THE “SALT” IN YOUR JOURNEY? (WHAT ʻ PRESERVES ʻ YOU AND KEEPS YOU GOING? WHAT MOTIVATES YOU?)
WHAT IS THE “FAT” IN YOUR JOURNEY? (WHAT GIVES YOUR LIFE ʻ FLAVOR ʻ ? WHAT GIVES YOU JOY?)
JUST AS WE SHAPED THE LAULAU, HOW DOES YOUR IDENTIFY OF BEING HAWAIIAN OR FROM HAWAI ʻ I SHAPE YOU?
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
January 31, 2025
NA HUA ʻ OLELO (VOCABULARY) LAU KALO- TARO LEAF PUA ʻ A/PU ʻ A- PIG PA ʻ AKAI-SALT HA- STEM ʻ IHI- PEEL HOLE- STRIP ʻ OKI ʻ OKI- CUT, CHOP POKEPOKE- CUBE KAPI- SPRINKLE PELU- FOLD WAHI- WRAP AND TIGHTEN
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
January 31, 2025
Nāoneala ʻ a Reflections:
Why are the origin stories (for people, for places, for communities, for organizations) important?
What attributes did you hear in the story of La ʻ amaikahiki do you want to embody in your own leadership?
La ʻ amaikahiki had a vision for his sailing. Where are you sailing, and what is your vision? What happens when you get there?
Despite the changes to this place over time, the legacy of the stories still remain. What is the legacy you are hoping to leave?
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
GROUP PHOTO
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Session 2 February 28, 2025 Leading in Community: Wayfinding
ʻ O nā hōkū nō nā kiu o ka lani. This experience, which takes place on both land and water, will allow leaders to immerse themselves in the understanding of leading community through the lens of a wayfinder. Learning from kānaka who have sailed on Hōkūle ʻ a and its sister wa ʻ a Hikianalia, leaders will learn both practical and metaphorical lessons from being out on the ocean and using keen evaluative, analytical and observational skills. How does one assess their progress and that of their team or organization? How might you evaluate the winds and tides to better understand where you might need to pivot and change course? We will learn more about how you kilo - look for the signs - and use those key indicators to get feedback, and then use that feedback to inform your work.
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Today’s Desired Outcomes
February 28, 2025
By the end of our time together you will...
Cohort will think about their vision, and the collective vision for the lahui. Think big picture and long term See the parallels between wayfinding and their leadership journey Understand the purpose, vision, strategy framework
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
Today's Guest Speakers
Bonnie Kanehunamoku Voyaging Academy Bonnie Kahape ʻ a-Tanner was born and raised in Kane ʻ ohe where her love for the ocean began. She got involved with the voyaging canoe Makali ʻ i in 1995 and has been sailing ever since. In 1999, she was a watch captain on Makali ʻ i’s historic voyage, E Mau e: Sailing the Master Home, which took Grand Master Navigator, Pius Mau Piailug home to his community in Micronesia. Following this life- changing experience, she helped to open Halau Ku Mana Public Charter School and launched the wa ʻ a Kānehūnāmoku, a 29 ft. coastal sailing canoe. This wa ʻ a was made in 2002, she was made to share, teach and practice the voyaging culture. Today the non-profit Kānehūnāmoku Voyaging Academy teaches learners of all ages about the wa ʻ a and connects students to college and career opportunities in ocean-based industries. She holds a BA in Hawaiian Studies, a MS in Counseling Psychology, and an MA in Transformative Learning and Change. Bonnie lives in He ʻ eia, O ʻ ahu with her husband Halona Tanner, and their two daughters, Kaialea and Lehia. In 2016, Gov. David Ige appointed him to the Hawai ʻ i State Senate for District 1 following the unexpected passing of his father, the late Sen. Gil Kahele. During his tenure as a state senator, Kahele served as the majority whip, majority floor leader, and chair for the committees on Higher Education and Water and Land. In 2020, he was elected to represent Hawai ʻ i’s 2nd Congressional District in Washington, D.C., in the 117th Congress. Kaiali'i Kahele, Chair of OHA Board of Trustees Kaiali ʻ i Kahele was elected trustee for Hawai ʻ i Island in 2024 and elected OHA board chair the same year. Trustee Kahele is originally from Miloli ʻ i in South Kona. He is a graduate of Hilo High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from UH Mānoa while playing on the UH Rainbow Warriors men’s volleyball team. He also has a master’s degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College. Kahele is a combat veteran, pilot, and commissioned officer in the Hawai ʻ i Air National Guard, U.S. Air Force. He is also a commercial pilot for Hawaiian Airlines.
ʻ Ōiwi Leadership ACCELERATOR
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