Elevating Local and Global Sustainability Partnerships for a Resilient Future: The Poai Ke Aloha Aina Project

Innovation Showcase
Poʻai Ke Aloha ʻĀina Lab,  Pua Souza,  Kawena Elkington  

In 2021, Dr. Kamanamaikalani Beamer was selected as the inaugural Dana Naone Hall Endowed Chair in Hawaiinuiakea School of Hawaiian Knowledge at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. His project, titled “Poai Ke Aloha Aina (PKAA),” stands as a knowledge maker in its pursuit of transformation in three focus areas: Circular Economy interventions, food systems, and water resource management. Rooted in the Hawaiian principle of aloha aina – love for the land – this organization is dedicated to establishing connections between these focus areas to catalyze change. PKAA has a two-pronged mission: nurturing the growth of aloha aina locally, while also fostering relationships at a global level. PKAA builds alliances to enable the elevation of shared values and aspirations, while undertaking place-specific collaborative research initiatives. By leveraging established relationships with communities, PKAA continues to pave the way for meaningful engagement in both local and international realms. Collective efforts have resulted in research outputs, summits, presentations, and coordinated action for policy reform in legislation. Furthermore, community practitioners are uplifted to amplify their influence in confronting challenges at the grassroots level. PKAA also prioritizes mentorship as a fundamental pipeline for knowledge transfer. Currently, three PhD candidates serve as research assistants under the guidance of Dr. Beamer, who successfully guides these emerging leaders in understanding the dynamics of community engagement, strategic interventions, and the balance of politics and innovation. Through his mentorship, the transition of skills and knowledge not only ensures continuity, but also equips new leaders with tools to advance the cause.