07/25/2026
ROAD TO GNHF 2026 - Wahine
When we started training 7 months ago, these ladies were not sure what they signed up for. Eager but uncertain, they just needed watering to bloom.
Several boot camps, weight training, and pop quizzes were just the tip of the iceberg. Each wahine studied - not just ‘olelo, not just hula, but all facets of the mele making their understanding of Hawaiian culture deeper. They didnt know that first training day in January that they would be making pā’ū lā’ī (several of them); stringing Pūpū o Ni’ihau; sewing ‘ulī’ulī; sewing/brushing/trimming hau; and much more. Had I told them, they may not have started. They had faith in the journey and the vision. They had trusted me and in turn, I wholeheartedly trusted them.
This team put in the work. The muscles burned, the sweat poured, and the tears fell, but their teamwork grew, their tenacity built, and their passion ignited. These pua bloomed in every sense of the word right before my very eyes.
You girls left it on the stage. YOU BROUGHT IT! You gave it your all and made ALL of us proud - nā kumu, nā haumana, nā keiki, and all of your ‘ohana.
I can’t wait to see you ladies level up and see just how much more you have to offer. This is the beginning ladies. Enjoy the journey. It’s going to be one hell of a ride so hang on. We go!! 🔥
