Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 31, Number 7, 1 July 2014 — KEKIPI, [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

KEKIPI,

T. Keikialoha E Kōkea, O'ahu Kapa'a High School C Kaueleau, Puna, Hawai'i K Hawai'i nei

1. • Perpetuation of the values and practices of nā kūpuna • Community-based culturally driven education • To inspire our Lāhui to understand and practice their kuleana as cultural resource managers 2. 1 understand my kuleana as a descendant of my kūpuna. As a result of this understanding, I co-founded a 501c3 not-for-profit organization called Ho'oulu Lāhui and a Public Charter school at Pū'āla'a, Puna makai, called Kua o Ka Lā PCS. These initiativestook a deep commitment and a true understanding of how to collaboratively work with others. (Mahalo piha toall who have helped and continue to contribute to the cultural stewardship of PO'āla'a and the education of our 'ōpio!) Our work together reguired passion and perseverance for the 20+ yearlong endeavor. Along the way I learned the value of active listening while working in group settings.This skill enables me to respectfully understand the stance and opinions of others. If given the opportunity, I would leverage this skill to enhanee the policymaking role of the OHA Board of Trustees.