March 17, 2025
From the first note to the final refrain, the haumāna of Kamehameha Schools Kāpalama filled the Neal S. Blaisdell Center with the sounds of aloha at the 105th annual Song Contest. Held Friday night, this year’s competition, themed “E Kipa, E Nanea, E Ho‘olaukanaka,” embodied the essence of Hawaiian hospitality.
The Class of 2025 left an unforgettable mark on the evening, sweeping every category and highlighting their musical excellence and cultural connection.
Louise Aoe McGregor Award
Outstanding Student Director
Emiole Sabian Ohai, Senior Men’s Director
Fay Nuʻuhiwa, Senior Women’s Director
Richard Lyman, Jr. Trophy
‘Ōlelo Makuahine Award for outstanding use of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi
Kaizer Espiau, Senior Co-ed
George Alanson Andrus Cup
Boys’ Competition Award
Emiole Sabian Oha, Senior Men
New England Mothers’ Cup
Girls’ Competition Award
Fay Nuʻuhiwa, Senior Women
Helen Desha Beamer Award
Best Musical Performance
Fay Nuʻuhiwa, Senior Women
Charles Edward King Cup
Combined Class Award
Kaizer Espiau, Senior Co-ed
The evening’s performances celebrated the enduring power of mele that brings people together. With their heartwarming harmonies in ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i, this year’s contest reminded all in attendance of the generous spirit of our lāhui.
For those who missed the magic, Hawaii News Now will rebroadcast the Song Contest on Thursday, March 20, at 7 p.m. on KGMB and Saturday, March 22, at 5:30 p.m. on K5.