Mahalo nui to all those who joined us for the 2024 Native Hawaiian Convention on Hawai‘i Island.
Throughout the convention, we navigated timely and relevant discussions around culture, economic development, education, housing, health, tourism, and community development, with a special focus on Hawai‘i Island, its people, its history, and the future that it seeks.
Watch below a few of the panel discussions and keynote presentations from this year’s convention.
Opening Ceremony
For the 2024 Native Hawaiian Convention, join Kumu Hina on a powerful journey across Hawai’i Island, as she reaches out to kumu hula from every Moku to prepare for the opening ceremony in an unprecedented union of over 30 Hālau. Witness the beauty, culture, and spirit of this huaka’i (journey) as it culminates in a stunning celebration of Hawaiian tradition and unity.
Welcoming Remarks
With Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement C.E.O. Kūhiō Lewis.
Hawaiian Akua
Dr. Pualani Kanaka‘ole Kanahele shares her ‘ike about Hawaiian Akua.
Uihā! The Cultural Impact of Paniolo
While many people typically associate cowboys with the “Wild West,” Hawaiʻi had its own cowboys long before the United States. Hear from modern-day paniolo about the rich history of Hawaiian ranching and how this tradition has become a lifeline for many ʻohana in Hawaiʻi.
Pono von Holt, Deedee Bertelmann, Kuulei Keakealani, Noelani Cashman (mod.)
Aloha Means Goodbye
Hear the newest data about Native Hawaiian housing, economic outlook, and outward migration by Director of Data, Matt Jachowski.
Food, Fashion & Cultural Showcase
A dazzling fashion show featuring designs from Kauluaʻe Hawai‘i, MANAOLA, and Sig Zane Designs, paired with delectable creations from Chefs Musashi Young, Jayson Kanekoa, and Brian Hirata. Dive into the rhythm of Seven Suns, one of Hawaiʻi’s most talented musical groups, as they light up the night with their vibrant mele.
Resilient ʻĀina Stewardship, Rooted in Moʻomeheu, Kaiāulu and Ea
Listen to the importance of integrating Hawaiian culture, ‘ōiwi perspectives, and community input into land stewardship decisions. Fostering collaboration between landowners and the community helps to ensure that the restoration of ʻāina is resilient and supports thriving communities.
Kaipo Kekona, Leinaʻala Lightner, Kauʻi Mattoon Weiss, Kaleo Manuel (mod.)
Keynote Speaker
U.S. Treasurer Marilynn Malerba.
Keynote Speaker
Governor Josh Green, M.D.
Talk Story
Jaime Kanani Green and Aunty Vicky Holt-Takamine.
The Future of Our Lands
He aliʻi ka ʻāina; he kauwā ke kanaka. The land is chief; man is its servant. Our kūpuna remind us that caring for the land is our kuleana, ensuring its resources sustain us. With growing threats to both land and people, what does effective aloha ʻāina look like in today’s world?
John DeFries, Mahina Paishon, Kali Watson, Summer Sylva (moderator)
‘Ōiwi Leadership in Tourism
Hear directly from Kānaka leaders about their strategies, local engagement, and cultural preservation to shape the future of tourism for the benefit of Hawaiʻi.
Kūhiō Lewis, Aaron Salā, Daniel Nahoʻopiʻi, moderated by Steve Petranik
