Formally established as a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization in 2006, Papahana Kuaola, located in the ʻili of Waipao, in the ahupuaa of Heʻeia, in Koʻolaupoko on Oʻahu, is a malama ʻaina-based education organization that is connecting the area’s past with a sustainable future. Papahana Kuaola is committed to creating a functional model of economic sustainability and environmental health in which Hawaiian knowledge is the means of decision-making to ensure that Hawaiian culture and native ecosystems are perpetuated. PKʻs approach to cultural sustainability is through the development and operation of educational programs.
Papahana Kuaola provides multi-faceted programs that looks to ensure that the future we build today will sustain us into tomorrow. We focus on economic self-sufficiency without sacrificing ourselves and our relationships to ʻaina. We teach environmental sustainability through direct community engagement with the natural environment and not restricting them from it with no trespassing signs. Most importantly, we do it in a way that has a meaningful impact on their personal lives.
Papahana Kuaola, a nonprofit organization, was established by Matthew Kapalikū Schirman and Richard Kaponowaiwaiola Barboza, who wanted to create a place where Hawaiian culture and natural history could be preserved and perpetuated. With the support of Kamehameha Schools’ ‘Āina Ulu program, 63 acres of land located in the uka ‘ili of Waipao, in the ahupua‘a of He‘eia, in Ko‘olaupoko on O‘ahu became home to Papahana Kuaola.
Richard Barboza
Matthew Kapaliku Schirman
President: Dr. Hālona Tanner
Licensed clinical psychologist in private practice.
Engaged in activities and education programs that focus on the Hawaiian art of canoe sailing and non-instrument navigation.
Documented Native Hawaiian ancestry
Hawaiian language speaker
Vice President: Robert Kealohapumehana Domingo
Owner of Nui Kealoha Catering Business specializing in Hawaiʻi’s native culinary experiences.
Active participant with Nā Papa Kānaka O Pu‘ukoholā Heiau and Ke Kula ʻo Samuel M. Kamakau.
Documented Native Hawaiian ancestry
Treasurer: Hawley Iona
Director of Finance & Operations, The Nature Conservancy.
Served in private and public sectors in over two decades managing financial and investment portfolios for individuals, businesses, and public trusts. Documented Native Hawaiian ancestry
Secretary: Hiʻilei Kawelo
Executive Director, Paepae o He‘eia.
Responsible for managing an 88-acre fishpond and education program and member of Ko‘olaupoko Hawaiian Civic Club.
Documented Native Hawaiian ancestry
Hawaiian language speaker