Chelae Primacio-Taua Chelae Lehuanani Primacio-Taua is a Direct Services Specialist who is dedicated to connecting with LT’s kamaliʻi and ʻohana at Kīpuka Waiʻanae. Her kuleana includes building community relationships, providing counseling and therapeutic support, and supporting her Teammates at the Trust. Working for LT and serving the Queen has been a lifelong passion. “I love that the main focus of LT is to serve the kamaliʻi of Hawaiʻi in need of support and guidance,” she says. West Oʻahu is a region she knows very well. Prior to joining LT, she was a Behavioral Health Specialist in the Leeward District for the Department of Education, and a Social Worker in Child Welfare Services at the Department of Human Services. She also has worked with elementary students in Waiʻanae, and high school students at an Alternative Learning Program in Nānākuli and Waiʻanae. One of her favorite ʻōlelo noʻeau is “Ulu aʻe ke welina a ke aloha,” which means, “Loving is the practice of an awake mind.” The proverb enhances her appreciation for Social Work and underscores the value of being fully present for others. “Aloha uplifts the practice of consciousness and our ability to be kind, considerate, and sympathetic individuals,” she says.While studying for her Master’s Degree at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Myron B. Thompson School of Social Work, she gained valuable experience working at a dual-diagnosis residential treatment facility for adults with mental health challenges and substance use. “Social Work is where my heart is at, and serving others is where I find a sense of purpose and fulfillment,” she says.In her leisure time, Chelae finds solace in caring for her small patio garden, where she nurtures plants that have sprouted from seeds gifted to her. Her garden flourishes with lilikoʻi, avocado, and various citrus fruits, and she hopes to expand her collection with more plants.She also finds joy in the ocean and listening to Hawaiian and country music. Recently, she discovered a passion for golf — after serving as the designated driver of golf carts for her club-swinging family for many years.Chelae treasures her time outside of work when she is with her ʻohana and taking care of her kūpuna. “I am grateful for my ʻohana, and my chosen ʻohana,” she says.