On June 23, student participants preparing for the upcoming Hawaiki Atua Leadership Program in Wellington, New Zealand (July 25 – August 6) gathered for an inspiring and insightful meeting with Kumu Kipapa and special guests Ivan Lui-Kwan and Shannon Augustin.
Hawaiki Atua is collaborating with several independent and public schools in both Hawaii and New Zealand to provide today’s youth with opportunities to develop an appreciation for the traditions and practices of the Māori, Native Hawaiians, and other Indigenous peoples across the Pacific. The Hawaiki Atua Youth Leadership Program is specifically designed to offer cultural and leadership development. This trip will bring together students and teachers from various Hawaiʻi schools, including Hālau Ku Mana PCS, Waianae High School, KaMaile Academy, St. Joseph’s of Hilo, and St. Andrew’s Schools – The Priory.
Students and parents had the special opportunity to engage in conversation with Ivan Lui-Kwan, Founder of Hawaiki Atua and esteemed alumnus of St. Joseph School, Class of 1963, who shared his wisdom and experiences in leadership, cultural identity, and service. His words served as a powerful reminder of the values that continue to shape leaders across generations. He is the Ambassador to the United States and Hawaiʻi for Kingi Tuheitia (the Māori King) and the Tribes of Aotearoa. Ivan also maintained a close and trusted relationship with the late Māori King, Kingi Tuheitia, reflecting deep ties between Native Hawaiian and Māori leadership traditions.
Also joining the discussion was Shannon Augustin, a 2021 graduate of SJS and a previous participant of the Hawaiki Atua program in 2018. Shannon offered firsthand insights into the journey ahead, highlighting the program’s impact on personal growth, connection to Pacific heritage, and leadership development.
The meeting was filled with meaningful dialogue, questions, and reflection, setting the tone for what promises to be a transformative experience in Aotearoa.
We look forward to supporting Michalea, Jaselle, and Connor as they embark on this remarkable cultural and leadership journey.
Go Cardinals!
