Kohala, Pu’uanahulu, Waimea

Robert Sonny Keakealani, Jr. is a 3rd generation cowboy from Pu'uanahulu. He grew up speaking 'olelo Hawai'i with his grandmother while fishing and ranching with his family. Uncle Sonny worked for Pu'uwa'awa'a Ranch and Parker Ranch which took him to every mountain, coast and corner of the island. He and his daughter, Ku'ulei, talk about aloha 'aina - to know your 'aina intimately and to care for, connect to and protect your places.

Ka’alaea, Keaukaha

John Keoni Aweau Turalde is originally from Kaalaea, O’ahu where he was taught to hunt, fish and eat what he caught. He was the youngest person to paddle in the Moloka'i Hoe and then became a commercial diver where he ultimately lost the use of his legs in a diving accident. Today, he is a master pahu drum maker in Keaukaha, teacher and keeper of so much cultural knowledge. We also interview his son Leomana.

Miloli’i

Born and raised in Miloli`i - the last Hawaiian fishing village in Hawai’i Island, Uncle Willy returned home after the Vietnam war to fight to preserve the coastline, the ocean and the traditional fishing practices. He says it is important to know who you are and fight for what you believe is pono. We also interview his son, Kaimi, who has also moved home to Miloli'i to start a charter school for the kids in their village.

Keaukaha, Waimea

From growing on the ocean in Keaukaha to the fighting in the Korean War, being called to the slopes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa and starting Kawaihae Canoe Club 50 years ago, there are common themes that are weaved through Uncle Manny's story. He talks about his deep, spiritual connection to the ocean and land, how he overcame hardship and what he wants the next generation to remember moving forward. We also interview his only daughter Kahea for an interesting perspective.

Kealia, Ke’ei

Shirley Kauhaihao was raised in Kealia by a family of farmers, commercial fishermen and cowboys. Her grandmother taught her how to weave lauhala and she continued that tradition, making lauhala art pieces all her life and teaching others around the world. Aunty Shirley talks about overcoming tragedy when her husband passed away leaving her to raise four young children on her own. She also lost her son and then granddaughter. She is a shining example of strength and grace, always giving back to her community.