I, You, We
Are ʻĀina.
Our mission
To build and perpetuate a foundation of Aloha ‘Āina through culturally-based Native Hawaiian education programming to grow self-aware, self-determined and self-directed critical thinkers for a sustainable Hawaiʻi.
Our vision
Kumano I Ke Ala exists to elevate indigenous knowledge to revitalize traditional food systems to save the world.
Kumano I Ke Ala (KIKA) is a 501c3 non-profit and social enterprise empowering West Kauaʻi through native land rehabilitation, food system revitalization, workforce training and youth development. Our work is centered around purveying Hawaiian culture, designing restored agricultural spaces, engaging the next generation of cultural practitioners and increasing commercial production of kalo locally to secure long term community access to affordable native Hawaiian staple foods.
Program Impact Stats
Lbs kalo processed & sold supporting local farmers & Food Sovereignty in 2024
Total Volunteer Hours including sites visits and community workdays in 2024
Hawaiʻi K-12 Youth directly engaged with cultural education experiences in 2024
Support Kumano I Ke Ala
Make a donation today and support Kumano I Ke Ala’s breadth of community work including at-promise youth education, workforce training, food sovereignty, cultural restoration and food systems change. We are a 501c3 non-profit organization and all donations made are tax deductible. Mahalo nui loa for your kokua!
Kūmano I Ke Ala Programmatic Focus
ʻĀina & Cultural Restoration
KIKA has worked diligently to become a leader in ʻāina restoration, now stewarding 97 acres of indigenous lands in West Kauaʻi and on North Shore Oahu. Our work centers on revitalizing loʻi kalo and sustainable agriculture, connecting communities to the land, culture, and each other.
Youth & Community Workforce Training
KIKA provides hands-on workforce training that prepares the next generation of agricultural and environmental stewards. Our programs teach traditional Hawaiian farming, native reforestation, and sustainable practices while building skills, confidence, and meaningful connections to ʻāina and community.
Food Systems Transformation
We are a part of a multi-sector movement fostering food systems transformation towards locally grown, Hawaiian food. The shift not only supports the local economy. it preserves cultural traditions and also helps reduce the environmental impact of importing food from outside of Hawaii.
At-Risk Youth
Education
KIKA engages at-risk youth through immersive ʻāina-based education, providing hands-on learning in farming, cultural practices, and environmental stewardship. Our programs foster resilience, life skills, and a sense of belonging while connecting young people to community and ʻāina.
See our Executive Directorʻs deeply felt and riveting performance as Kamehameha in CHIEF OF WAR on Apple TV now streaming!
Learn more about how Jason Momoa found Kaina, the person he felt could best portray the iconic figure on Kauaʻi during a paddling competition in Hanalei.
Watch Chief of War: Talk Story Sessions
curated by Kanaeokana with Cast, Creators and Cultural Practioners discusssing their experiences bringing the historical epic to life.
Our Partners & Sponsors
