Accepting new applications for the Kāhuli Cohort 2025

Welina mai kākou! For the past four years, the ʻUpena Network has sponsored programs that develop meaningful pilina or connections between talented Kanaka Maoli and their current or aspired vocations. These leadership programs are built on several foundational principles.

By focusing on Hawaiʻi's history, leaders, places, and language, we learn how to remain successful and relevant in today's ever-changing world. As stewards of this ʻāina and leaders within our ʻohana, communities, and throughout Hawaiʻi nei, we have a kuleana to develop into more skilled and impactful leaders. This means embracing our duty to our Lāhui and honoring our ancestors, peers, and future generations.

The ʻUpena Network takes a place-based approach to learning. We immerse ourselves in the moʻolelo of significant places and visit our wahi pana to learn from the winds, rains, and the way mountains appear throughout the day. This grounding in place is essential—to be Kanaka means establishing this foundation first, then fully embracing our kuleana so we can flourish and grow as we are meant to.

Our Journey: Building ʻŌiwi Leadership

  • Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement Partnership

    We have worked extensively with CNHA through their various job training academies, creating pathways for professional development rooted in cultural values.

  • Hiʻiaka Association

    We formed this group to provide talented women from diverse career backgrounds with a safe space for sharing experiences and supporting each other's growth. You can read more about these activities in an OHA article featured in Kawaiola.

  • Hui Kūnihi Team

    Our co-ed group brought together kāne and wāhine to explore workplace dynamics, community engagement, and home life achievement through meaningful discussions and presentations by excellent guest speakers.

  • Kamaikahuliwaʻa Cohort

    Our most recent cohort built on previous themes while consistently addressing our kuleana—not only to develop ourselves as exemplary ʻŌiwi leaders, but to extend our efforts beyond our own homes to uplift our communities in Hawaiʻi and serve as an example to the world.

Introducing Kāhuli Cohort 2025

We are excited to announce our newest cohort beginning in July 2025. The Kāhuli Cohort incorporates the successes of previous programs while addressing the changing landscape we face daily. Beginning with our culture, we will discover that answers lie in the wisdom of yesterday and the strength of many kūpuna before us.

Success encompasses much more than a large paycheck or a position at the top of an organization. We intend to explore the dynamics of this mindset and discover new opportunities for meaningful achievement.

Schedule and Commitment

The ʻUpena Network purposefully schedules events during early morning, early evening, or weekend hours so members can participate without taking vacation time. However, if you are interested in joining Kāhuli, you must commit to attending all sessions to the best of your ability. The connections and learning that happen during our time together cannot be made up later. When you apply, you are committing to participate in the full program. But we understand that life happens; therefore, we ask that you attend at least 80% of all Kāhuli activities.

Ready to join our ʻohana of leaders? Applications for Kāhuli 2025 are now being accepted.

Kahuli 2025 Schedule

  • Introductory Dinner
    5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
    Location to be announced

  • Visit to ʻIolani Palace
    9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    Lunch included

  • Visit to Mauna ʻAla
    9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    Lunch included

  • Saturday:

    Kāhuli Retreat at Punaluʻu
    Begin at Bishop Museum: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

    Lunch on your own
    Meet at Punaluʻu no later than 2:00 PM to begin retreat program

    Dinner included

    Sunday:

    Kāhuli Retreat at Punaluʻu
    Morning ceremony and continued discussions with executive and financial coaching

    Community Service at Hauʻula: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
    Breakfast & lunch included

  • Closing Dinner
    5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

    Location to be announced

Program Details

Required Membership Fee: $50.00
Non-refundable fee collection will occur upon acceptance into the program.

Application Deadline: June 30, 2025

Note: We have a limited number of spots available. Early application is encouraged. Please share with anyone else who might be a good fit for this program.