Mana Kanipila

Mana Maoli will increase the learning and perpetuation of Native Hawaiian music, knowledge, and culture available to all Native Hawaiians in the places where they reside. Currently, Native Hawaiians are underrepresented in the creative industries, such as Hawaiian dance and music performers, a missed opportunity for socioeconomic advancement. By establishing an innovative culturally grounded Kanipila (“to play instruments”) approach to preserve and perpetuate Native Hawaiian music, knowledge, and culture connecting Native Hawaiian muʻo (youth and alumni/young adults, ages 5-25) with Native Hawaiian creative industry professionals in kanipila mentorship learning experiences. Ultimately, the project will increase the learning and perpetuation of Native Hawaiian music, knowledge, and culture available to all Native Hawaiians in the places where they reside.