Strong, confident, and highly skilled like the warrior and mōʻī, Kamehameha I (?-1819) was an intelligent leader who unified the Hawaiian Islands. Kamehameha recognized that by empowering and instilling his people with the resources they needed to succeed, he could achieve greatness. Leaders like Kamehameha have a desire to inspire those around them to persevere - to hoʻomau. Whether personal or professional, they see value in establishing strong relationships built on trust. When Kamehameha was a young chief, he attacked an innocent fishing village. He later recognized his wrongdoing and established Ke Kānāwai Māmalahoe (the Law of the Splintered Paddle) to establish safety for innocent travelers throughout Hawaiʻi. Like Kamehameha, strong leaders do what’s right and take responsibility when at fault. They are constantly moving forward.

Ke Aliʻi Pauahi (1831-1834) was kind, generous, and selfless. Although she was not a parent, Pauahi sought to provide for her people through education. Throughout her life, Bernice Pauahi was committed to serving her people, and she envisioned a school that would allow her people to succeed. Leaders like Pauahi are visionaries who are fulfilled by helping others to reach their full potential. They enjoy motivating those around them by helping them to feel empowered and engaged. As a result, leaders like these establish trust, respect, and create strong relationships between those they work with!

Queen Emma (1836-1885) was strong, compassionate, and empathetic. In her lifetime, she saw the Hawaiian population dwindle, struggling to combat foreign diseases. Queen’s Hospital, St. Andrew’s Priory School Honolulu, and other establishments were just some of the ways she looked after her people. Just as she used her resources to pursue advancements in Hawaiian healthcare, education, and religion, leaders like Queen Emma find ways to better those around them. They protect and uplift yet are fair and understanding. Reliable to a fault, people are assured that these leaders will say what they’ll do and do as they say. Patience is their strong suit, and whenever they’re faced with a decision, they take the time to understand how those around them will be affected before themselves.

King Kalākaua’s (1836-1891) reign included many key points in Hawaiian history, but as a leader, he always sought to uplift Hawaiʻi through the fostering of relationships with kingdoms around the world. His humility and value of laulima made his connections with others sincere and trusted. Kalākaua also reignited the pride of Hawaiian culture amongst his people by bringing back traditions that encouraged gathering and celebrating what made Hawaiian people unique. Leaders like Kalākaua take pride in seeing everyone thrive, no matter their station.

Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole (1871-1922) fought to ensure the rights for his people. Smart, outspoken, and champion of the Hawaiian people, Prince Kūhiō worked to implement legislation and policy that continues to have an impact today. From spearheading the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, to establishing Hawaiʻi National Parks, the Hawaiian Civic club, and the Royal Order of Kamehameha I, Prince Kūhiō’s life was dedicated to the rehabilitation of Hawaiians during a time of incredible change within government and culture. Leaders like Prince Kūhiō exude passion, resourcefulness, and ambition. When tasked with something, they find the best way, not the easy way, of fulfilling their duties. As leaders, they lead by example, and with an ability to adjust and adapt in pursuit of their goals, inspiring those around them.