Kamehameha Schools’ Mahiʻai Match-Up supports food systems-focused entrepreneurs with capital, mentorship and skills to build sustainable businesses, fostering economic resilience and cultivating them as ʻōiwi leaders whose work improves the well-being of our lāhui. In this series, we spotlight the innovative contestants of the competition, showcasing their journeys and contributions to Hawaiʻi’s sustainable food future.
Founded by Kent Kurashima KSK’10 in 2022, Manu Brewing Co. is a specialty beverage company based on O‘ahu, crafting the world’s only sparkling māmaki herbal tea. Proudly Hawaiian-owned, the company is committed to using 100% locally sourced ingredients to create a zero-calorie, sugar- and caffeine-free drink that is refreshing and healthy.
Kent, a mechanical engineer by training, was inspired to start the company after brewing beer as a hobby. His amazement grew when he discovered māmaki’s health benefits, packed with antioxidants that can improve brain function and control blood pressure.
“I needed a healthier alternative to beer,” Kurashima recalls. “When I experimented with māmaki, I realized how incredible it was and I just ran with it.”
Manu Brewing Co. has experienced rapid growth. To meet this demand, the company secured a loan through the Kamehameha Schools Food Systems Fund that allowed the brewery to invest in larger equipment and a high capacity canning line, enabling the production of 12 cans per minute and expanding distribution to neighboring islands.
For Kent, the company’s mission extends beyond creating a healthy beverage.
“When we bring back our native plants, we bring back our native butterflies and birds,” Kent said. “By increasing demand for māmaki, we’re invigorating native crops and improving biodiversity in our islands,” Kent said.
While raising awareness about Hawaiʻi’s native birds through his brand, Kent also draws a parallel between the resilience of native birds and the Hawaiian people, emphasizing the importance of preserving both the bird populations and Hawaiian culture.
“Just as our native birds are making a comeback, so too are the Hawaiian people,” Kent continued. “You may not see us or hear us, but we are here and after decades of struggle, like our native birds, our voices won't be silenced.”
If he wins the Mahiʻai Match-Up competition, the award will further support Manu Brewing’s efforts to complete their new brewery space in Kahaluʻu, which will streamline production and reduce costs. The funds would also help the company enhance its canning process and scale operations to meet the growing demand for its sparkling māmaki.
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ʻāina pauahi,mahi'ai match-up,food sustainability,food systems,ʻāina
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