Growing up, I rarely saw teachers who looked like me—even in my own community. My classmates rarely explored our culture, though it is glorified in tourism. It wasn’t until I began teaching at Kanu o ka ‘Āina that I truly learned my own language and culture. That’s when I realized—students need project-based learning to push boundaries, connect with their identity, and ignite a passion for knowledge. When learning is meaningful, it empowers them to take ownership of their education.

This year, we have spent many hours conducting biodiversity surveys across Hawaiʻi (the first in over 50 years). These surveys assess species status, extinction, and land needs. After ten grueling surveys, we had only collected invasive species. However, after months of data collection, this week marked a monumental moment--we logged our first ever native species! It was that moment that made all of us realize that those hours of labor was truly worth it!

Hawaii is the extinction capital of the world, and this funding would help change that. I would invest in our biodiversity project, which provides crucial data tracking. The money would go towards technology to increase data accuracy, proper field gear, increase community partner programs and of course transportation. I would also like to use a portion of the proceeds to help offset costs to pay off my build. I am the first Native Hawaiian in my family to own land, and my home is nearly built!