voices of change
Andrea Dias-Machado began with gratitude. She named something many emerging nonprofit leaders know well: her organization is young. “We are a baby in all of this non-profit, this non-profit world,” she shared, humbled to be part of the journey.
Dr. Casie Wise stepped into the Hōʻike with humility, gratitude, and a powerful story of Native education advocacy. Her presentation focuses on building support for a long-range vision for NIEA’s Tribal Communities and Schools program.
Hoku Kaʻaekuahiwi Pousima’s presentation felt like an invitation to place.
Representing Hui Mālama i ke Ala ʻŪlili, affectionately known as HuiMAU, Hoku grounded the audience in the ahupuaʻa of Koholālele, in the moku of Hāmākua on Hawaiʻi Island.
Representing Hale Kipa, Jennifer brought warmth, clarity, and deep kuleana to her case for support.
Representing Ke Kula ʻo Nāwahīokalaniʻōpuʻu, Gale brought forward a case for support that was deeply rooted in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, culture, and the future of the lāhui.
As the founder and Executive Director of Ulu Aʻe Learning Center, Miki has spent over a decade weaving people back into the story of the land.
But like all great journeys, hers began with a sense of place — and a call to serve.