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Kīpuka Kona

E Holoholo Kākou is a two-week summer program that builds upon foundational knowledge by guiding kamalei into a deeper understanding and practice of traditional mauka and makai resource stewardship. Through intentionally planned, hands-on, and place-based learning experiences, the program strengthens cultural identity, self-sufficiency, and ʻike Hawaiʻi while fostering pilina with ʻāina, ocean, and community.

The first week centers on mauka practices, where kamalei engage in immersive learning focused on sustainable and self-sufficient ways of living from the land. Participants will take part in nursery education, native plant identification, and explore traditional agricultural practices, including potential huakaʻi to places such as a wetland kalo patch, where they can learn about the importance of freshwater systems within the ahupuaʻa. Kamalei will also participate in harvesting, preparing, and cooking food, deepening their understanding of the full food cycle from ʻāina to table. Throughout the week, participants will work toward earning their food handling certification, reinforcing safe food practices while building responsibility, independence, and a strong sense of kuleana to ʻāina.

The second week transitions into makai practices, where kamalei will actively engage in fishing and develop a deeper understanding of ocean ecosystems and sustainability. Participants will learn fish identification, sustainable harvesting methods, fishing techniques, proper equipment usage, and safe fish handling practices. There may also be opportunities for huakaʻi, such as visiting a loko iʻa, where kamalei can learn about traditional Hawaiian aquaculture systems, resource management, and the interconnected relationship between mauka and makai. This portion of the program emphasizes patience, teamwork, environmental responsibility, and strengthening pilina with ocean resources.

Through these experiences, E Holoholo Kākou supports kamalei in building confidence, strengthening their cultural identity, and developing a deeper sense of kuleana to ʻāina, ocean, and community, while equipping them with the knowledge and life skills to make healthy, sustainable choices.

*All are welcome to apply with preference given to Native Hawaiian kamalei.

Ages: 13 - 17

Schedule: Monday thru Friday
Time: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Start Date: 6/1/26
End Date: 6/12/26