Kanehunamoku Voyaging Academy

The Kanehunamoku Voyaging Academy (KVA) is a nonprofit organization based in Hawaii, founded with the mission to perpetuate the knowledge of traditional Hawaiian navigation and provide opportunities for Native Hawaiian students to advance in contemporary ocean-based careers.

Overview

KVA is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization that has been providing educational services centered on traditional Hawaiian navigation for over 14 years. It began as a voyaging program within Hālau Kū Māna Public Charter School and later expanded to work with other schools and programs, eventually establishing independent programming.

Programs

• Hālau Holomoana: This is a youth leadership and ocean-based careers development program grounded in Hawaiian culture and voyaging traditions. It is designed for motivated high school students interested in maritime careers, providing over 180 hours of instruction annually. The curriculum includes sail training, Hawaiian cultural protocol, Hawaiian history, and college and career support. The program prepares students for careers that allow them to contribute to their community through lifelong learning and the perpetuation of Hawaiian canoe culture[3].

• Papahana Hoolauna: This initiative offers instructional classroom visits and hands-on experiences aboard the canoe, teaching students about maritime skills, non-instrumental navigation, teamwork, and communication. It emphasizes math, science, and literacy while perpetuating Hawaiian cultural knowledge and appreciation[5].

• Kū i ka Māna: This program is tailored for grade 9 students at Hālau Kū Māna Public Charter School, focusing on nurturing contemporary students of wa‘a culture and their roles as torch-bearers in the Hawaiian renaissance[5].

Vessel and Operations

The KVA utilizes a 29-foot double-hulled sailing canoe, Kānehūnāmoku, which serves as a hands-on learning platform. Students aboard the canoe learn maritime skills, non-instrumental navigation, elemental observations, teamwork, and communication. The canoe is based at Kaʻalaea in Kāneʻohe Bay[4].

Notable Figures

KVA has been influenced by prominent figures such as Papa Mau Piailug, known for his contributions to traditional navigation, and Clay Bertelmann, who played a significant role in maritime leadership and education. Bonnie Kahapeʻa Tanner is also notable for her expertise and leadership roles within the organization[1].

History

The organization became tax-exempt in June 2014 with the EIN 46-5563571. Over time, it has expanded its reach to involve multiple educational institutions and community programs, ensuring the continuation of Hawaiian cultural heritage through maritime education[2].