The September 20 event began with light nāulu rains and a rainbow that appeared as attendees arrived, setting the stage for a unique gathering. The multi-generational group represented various programs across the state, aiming to strengthen their roles, learn from each other, deepen their connection to ‘āina, and enjoy themselves. Participants expressed their enthusiasm for trees, communities, and the environment through art, culture, sustainable practices, and shared experiences.
“Today is about celebrating our partners and the amazing work that they’re doing around growing trees, growing canopy, but also growing the wellbeing of our communities together,” said Heather McMillen, Kaulunani’s program coordinator.
The event covered topics such as project purpose and evaluation, nurturing partnerships, ritualizing tree planting and care, and preventing the spread of invasive species. Artists and cultural practitioners Nalu Andrade, Emma Broderick, and Jesse Mikasobe-Kealiinohomoku demonstrated bamboo stamping (ʻOhe kāpala), weaving (Ulana), and coconut shell cup (ʻApu) making.
“This gathering of many different folks with plenty mana (power) and responsibility is really special,” said Mikasobe-Kealiinohomoku. He noted that this ʻaha (meeting) was not a conference but a space to come together and be present. “It’s a time to be vulnerable, a time to share your work. It’s a time to also learn and listen.”
Kaulunani aims to support community collaboration in establishing, managing, and protecting trees, forests, and green spaces across Hawaiʻi. This event exemplified its broader mission. McMillen added: “This work is not only about trees. We think about trees as an entry point, not an end point. It’s an entry point to be able to engage around issues of community well-being, education, transportation, health and culture.”