In this very special Inspired by Aloha episode, the crew takes their first road trip to Maunalua (aka Hawaiʻi Kai) to sit down with two remarkable women: Aunty Kuʻuipo Kumukahi and Jeninne Heleloa, co-founders of the Hawaiian Music Perpetuation Society (HMPS). Together, they share powerful stories of ʻohana, mele, and resilience. From kolohe childhood memories and musical roots to the founding of HMPS during COVID, their mission continues to be the preservation and perpetuation of Hawaiian culture through song. Filled with laughter, emotion, and deep cultural insights, this episode reminds us that Aloha is more than a word. It is a soothing melody that washes over the soul and deeply connects us in ways we never thought possible. It is a way of life, passed down, protected, and meant to be shared with future generations.
AMY
ERIN
CAMDEN
SHAREEN
Mahalo piha loa to Lina Girl and Davey D for inviting us to join you on Island Life Live!
KHON w/ Kamaka Pili
"Nā Kūpuna Nights" 2022 Concert Series Spotlight
Kamaka Pili interviews HMPS's own, Kuʻuipo Kumukahi on our special concert series Nā Kūpuna Nights.
2021
Hoʻowehiwehi Award Recipient
2021 Winner of the Ho'owehiwehi Award - Dr. George S. Kanahele for the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa and Ho‘okela Hawaiian Heritage and Culture Center
We are proud to present Ms. Ku‘uipo Kumukahi, the Sweetheart of Hawaiian Music. Her extensive ‘ike (knowledge of) Hawai‘i and aloha nui (great love) for this ‘āina (land) and her kanaka (people) is what makes this living legend the perfect choice to lead our hotel as the Director of Hawaiian Culture and Community Relations. Ho‘okela Hawaiian Heritage and Culture Center at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki has partnered with the Hawaiian Music Perpetuation Society (HMPS), a local nonprofit organization, dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and perpetuation of mele Hawai‘i (Hawaiian poetry/music). Together, they have created, designed, implemented, and managed a variety of projects. As the pandemic evolved, Ku‘uipo and her team were challenged to provide activities that would encourage connections between the visitors and Hawai‘i’s rich culture while maintaining pandemic protocols to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being. As Hawai‘i’s gates re-opened and gatherings resumed with modifications, Ho‘okela and HMPS seized the opportunity to further develop its robust cultural programs and ongoing community initiatives we enjoy today.