Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 38, Number 7, 1 Iulai 2021 — Raising the Next Generation of 'Ōiwi Leaders [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

Raising the Next Generation of 'Ōiwi Leaders

V KA LEO O NA 'OPIO V ^ VOICE OF THE YOUTH *

By Jacob Aki As we work to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, there are many issues that we must continue to address as a lāhui - the high cost of living, laek of affordable housing, overdependence on tourism and the need to protect our sacred sites. For us as kānaka mākua (and as individuals engaged in helping to solve some of these problems), it is critical that we invite opio to the table where these conversations are happening. Even more important than inviting them to the table is helping them to create their own spaces where they ean talk amongst one another about how to best address these issues, and provide them with a platform where their voices ean be elevated.

Ka Leo O Nā 'Ōpio (KONO) is trying to do just that. We are a eollahoration of individuals and organizations dedicated to helping opio build these spaces by promoting civic engagement across Hawai'i. Through our newly launched social media and website platforms, we are providing 'ōpio with the tools, resources and support they need to elevate their voices and take their advocacy to the next level. By utilizing our existing networks to create opportunities, we hope to cultivate_and nurture our next generation of 'Oiwi leaders. Follow us on social media @opiopowered on Facebook and Instagram or visit our website at www.kaleoonaopio.org to learn more. We have lots exciting events and opportunities eoming soon. ■ Jacob Aki isfrom Kapālama, O'ahu. He is active in various Native Hawaiian civic organizations such as Hale O Nā Ali'i O Hawai'i and the Association ofHawaiian Civic Clubs.