Rooted in Community, Growing Future Leaders

Hui Mālama O Ke Kai Foundation

At Hui Mālama O Ke Kai Foundation, the Kūkulu Youth Program is cultivating something deeply meaningful in Waimānalo: a place where young people are encouraged to grow with confidence, purpose, and a strong sense of identity. Through year-round after-school and summer programming, youth are surrounded by academic support, cultural connection, and opportunities to discover their own voice and leadership.

What HMKF is building is not only enriching the lives of 25 participating youth, but also rippling outward to families and neighbors through school partnerships, community events, and kalo distributions that nourish both body and spirit.

What shines through most clearly is the feeling of trust, belonging, and shared care that surrounds this program. Families do not simply come and go—they linger, talk story, lend a hand, and show up as part of an ʻohana that has been strengthened over time. Youth, too, are growing into leadership in ways that feel natural and genuine: helping organize events, caring for younger children, and taking pride in being counted on. These are the kinds of moments that quietly shape emerging leaders—not only by teaching skills, but by showing young people that they matter, that they are capable, and that they are held by a community that believes in them.

Takitani Foundation is honored to support this work through its Expanding Horizons – Emerging Leaders grant, which uplifts programs that help young people step more fully into their potential while staying rooted in community.