Dec. 22, 2025
KS Preschools-Nānākuli haumāna recently embarked on a special huakaʻi to Honolulu to deepen their understanding of alakaʻi lawelawe and to experience real-life examples of leaders who serve our lāhui. Excitement filled the bus as keiki, mākua and kumu traveled from the leeward coast into town, taking in the sights along the way.
The huakaʻi began at Kawaiahaʻo Plaza, the headquarters of Ke Kula ʻo Kamehameha, where keiki were welcomed with aloha by Kamehameha Schools Preschool leadership, including Interim Poʻo Kula Nicole Souza, Poʻo Kumu Jeannette Sunn, Communications Director Alice Silbanuz and Administrative Coordinator Jennifer Matsuda. After opening protocols, keiki toured the offices, learned about the important work our leaders do and heard stories about leadership rooted in aloha, kuleana, and Ke Akua’s love.
“As our keiki learn about Ke Aliʻi Pauahi’s aloha and leadership, I hope they recognize that leadership is not distant or reserved for a few, rather each of them carry the power to lead, to uplift, and to serve our lāhui with courage and aloha,” said Souza.
The learning continued with a visit to ʻIolani Palace and the presentation of hoʻokupu at the Queen Liliʻuokalani statue. Standing in the very places they had read about, keiki lit up with recognition — calling out landmarks like the Coronation Pavillion and the palace steps Liliʻu once walked. Their curiosity overflowed as they asked questions, made connections and proudly affirmed their identity as Hawaiian learners shaped by a rich history.
Keiki loved experiencing Honolulu — riding through town, seeing skyscrapers, walking inside offices and discovering different kinds of jobs. But the highlight was ʻIolani Palace.
“They were in awe,” shared Kumu Chelsie Omo. “There was so much, ‘Kumu, we read this in class!’ They recognized real places from our stories and were so excited to tell me what they learned.”
Mākua expressed gratitude for the experience and pride in seeing their keiki engage so deeply with leadership, culture and history. This huakaʻi brought learning to life, strengthened pilina between home and school, and inspired keiki to see themselves as the next generation of ʻŌiwi leaders.