May 14, 2025

In a special edition of Spotlight Now on Hawaii News Now, Kamehameha Schools Maui haumāna led a powerful discussion centered on Lahaina’s restoration and the broader effort to uplift Maui through community-driven solutions.

Joined by cultural and ʻāina stewardship experts Jason Jeremiah and Hōkūao Pellegrino from Kamehameha Schools, along with Kaipo Kekona from the Kuʻia Agricultural and Education Center, the students explored how traditional knowledge, food systems and native species play a critical role in the healing and regeneration of Lahaina. The discussion covered challenges like collecting seeds and adapting to climate change. It also highlighted opportunities for the community to get involved with the Kuʻia Agricultural Education Center and contribute to the long-term vision for agroforestry, all integral to Lahaina’s ongoing healing.

“I was once raised by the village and now I am part of the village,” Kekona said. “When the village goes through hardship, we come together to support where and how we can.”

Their work reflects Kamehameha Schools’ long-term commitment to Lahaina’s recovery: one grounded in cultural connection, community partnerships and the restoration of ʻāina as a foundation for resilience. By being part of these conversations and hands-on efforts, KS Maui students are discovering what it means to be servant leaders with aloha for their home.

“Being able to contribute something and feel more connected to the land is something I am very proud of,” said junior Kahoa Kapuaʻala. “I feel accomplished knowing I helped restore the land but also contributed to the revitalization of our culture through planting native species.”

The second half of the Spotlight Now episode focused on restoration efforts underway in a different part of Maui. Students explored the rich history and cultural significance of the salt beds at Kēalia.