Wahipana o Waiʻanae Perpetuates ʻIke Kupuna

This past summer, the cafeteria of Waiʻanae Intermediate School echoed with the cheerful voices of over 200 seventh-grade students, celebrating the end of the academic year. Equally enthusiastic were LT Teammates from Kīpuka Waiʻanae, who were at the school to mark the end of a semester-long program called Wahipana o Waiʻanae.

The LT Teammates dedicated eight hours per week over the past semester to mentor the students. The purpose of the Wahipana o Waiʻanae program was to acquaint the youth, ages 11 to 13, with ʻike kūpuna (ancestral knowledge) and cultivate an understanding and appreciation for their hometown, Waiʻanae, in West Oʻahu.

“Wahi” means space or place. “Pana” means heartbeat or pulse. Combined, “wahipana” means “living breathing places.” Every wahipana holds unique moʻolelo (stories), mana (energy), legends, and a treasured history.

Collectively, they create a sense of belonging in individuals.

At the start of each weekly session, LT Teammates guided the students in the oli Eia Nā Pua O Lili’uokalani, and the Hawai’i Pono’ī. The youth also engaged in lively discussions about what it means to perpetuate aloha. They concluded each session with all verses of Mele Hōʻala Moku and Hawaiʻi Aloha.

Along the way, the students deepened their understanding of Hawaiian culture and knowledge of the region. Teammates said the ‘ōpio enjoyed learning about their wahipana, and bringing life back to the ‘āina and kūpuna by acknowledging the true names of places in the Wai’anae region.

The Wahipana o Waiʻanae program resonates with the Queen’s legacy, and aligns with the mission of her Trust established in 1909 to enrich the lives of Hawaiian children.

Students who participated in the Wahipana o Waiʻanae Program this past semester developed a newfound appreciation for their kūpuna and cultural heritage. “No matter how far you come from, no matter where you come from, it just matters that you came today,” says Kalaʻi A.

As the students break for the summer, Teammates from Kīpuka Wai’anae continue to offer youth-focused programs in their community. The summer programs include ʻŌpūaliʻi Hekili, Lei Kahelelani, and Puaʻama O Ke Kai.