‘Ōlelo Program
Increasing Hawaiian Language Fluency for Lahaina Residents
A cornerstone of perpetuating moʻomeheu Hawaiʻi, this program revitalizes ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi as a living language in Lahaina. Through immersive experiences, it inspires community members of all ages to become active stewards and speakers—reconnecting keiki, mākua, and kūpuna to ancestral voices amid recovery. The inaugural initiative is the ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i Immersion Camp, a joyful, transformative gathering that equips participants with practical fluency, cultural pride, and tools for ongoing practice.
Kula Leo O Lahaina
‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i Immersion Camp 2026
VISION
Kula Leo o Lahaina is a four-day ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi immersion camp grounded in the loina, moʻolelo, and mele of Lahaina.
This camp is designed to strengthen the Lahaina community’s relationship to ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi through place-based learning rooted in the ʻike and histories of this ʻāina.
Together, we will listen, speak, sing, and reflect, creating a supportive environment where learners of all levels can grow in confidence while reconnecting to the stories, place names, and ʻike unique to Lahaina.
OBJECTIVE
To strengthen the base level of understanding and competency in the loina, moʻolelo, and mele of Lahaina within the Lahaina community, while encouraging the everyday use of ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi.
OUTCOMES
Kula Leo o Lahaina is not only about gaining language skills, but about deepening our sense of belonging, responsibility, and connection to place and to one another.
Through learning the customs, mele, and narratives of Lahaina, we strengthen our ability to carry this knowledge forward and reaffirm the foundations of Lahaina identity.