Leia Makaneole

Born on Kaua’i and having Native Hawaiian ancestry Leia was given an intimate relationship with the island we are lucky to call home. Engaging in community workshops hosted by various organizations cultivated the connection that was already established at a very young age. At the National Tropical Botanical Gardens in Lawai, a volunteer experience in their native nursery grew not only her curiosity for plants but also her understanding of stewardship, which is a big part of the culture here.

Leia’s educational experiences facilitated by K.U.P.U. and the Hawaii Youth Conservation Corps. include working as both a Team Member and then returning as a Group Leader. Aiding the success of projects with various organizations throughout the state. Studying Natural Resource Environmental Management at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and the work she did with Hawaii’s Division of Aquatic Resources elaborated awareness of her growing concern and dedication to giving back to her community.

Expanding from responsibility to conserving natural resources she began studying Massage Therapy at Hawaii Healing Arts College in Kailua, O’ahu. This is where she gained a passion for tending to wellness and facilitating healing to those that she crossed paths with. Having spent time traveling and participating in other cultures of the world she observed the basic human ambition, to find purpose.

Returning to Kaua’i and serving on the Board as part of the Alaka’i O Kaua’i Charter School community has been a journey of coming full circle. Originated as a student of the previous school that resided here in Kahili many years ago to return as a parent of a learner here at Alaka’i O Kaua’i. Allowing the bond for this very unique avenue of education to be restored. Feeling tremendous joy in the assurance of the future leaders we are encouraging here on Kaua’i. Privileged to give back to the place that left a lasting impression of self-worth and appreciation for initiating positivity in the world around us. Looking forward to the connections being made here in Alaka’i O Kaua’i and cultivating a culture of excellence.

KULIA I KA NU’U “Strive to reach for the summit.”