Darian – Summer 2018 Intern, 19 Years

Before this summer I was having difficulty reconciling my love for Hawaiian culture with my lack of native Hawaiian blood. Among many other lessons, Ho’okua’aina has shown me that the important thing when practicing Hawaiian culture and tradition is where your heart lies, not the blood that it pumps. Everyone at Kapalai made me feel more comfortable in my own skin and bred in me a new appreciation for my capabilities and culture. Whenever anyone noticed me dragging or struggling, they helped out and pulled me back up to speed. At Kapalai I not only found fulfilling work, but also founded relationships with new friends and family.