Aloha Abroad: Kehaulani Wilson

Aloha Abroad

Hawaii Traditions seeks to acknowledge the ever-evolving local traditions, values, and culture of all of Hawaii. In our quest to learn more we’ve discovered that our traditions, values, and culture are appreciated and practiced all over the world. In our Aloha Abroad series, we acknowledge the people and organizations who help to perpetuate the affinity for Hawaii.

During my recent trip to Los Angeles, I was fortunate enough to be in the city during the 15th Annual E Hula Mau® competition. My experience with the Kamaiana in Southern California proved that the Aloha Spirit is alive in SoCal. Ka Halau Hula of Napua Ilima ‘O Kehaulani was one of the entrants in the competition, and Grammy nominated Kumu Hula Kehaulani Wilson agreed to an interview.

QUESTION 1: Let’s start from the beginning, what’s your Genesis, your Kumulipo?

My source comes from Ilima Hula Studio in Kalihi taught by Kumu Louise and Kumu Luka Kaleiki.My 1st uniki with them in 1974. My 2nd uniki was Kumu Frank Kawaikapuokalani Hewett from Oahu in 2006. I have also studied under Lucy Lee Hula Studio in Kaimuki and Studied under Mapuana De Silva for 2 years.

QUESTION 2: I have to ask because I wouldn’t be true to our Hawaii culture, but what school you went?

I graduated from Kauluwela Elementary school, Central Intermediate School and Mckinley High School located on Oahu, Hawaii. [Note: After learning that she too is a Mighty Tiger, my follow up question of course was, "What year you wen grad?" She's a proud member of the Class of 1974!]

QUESTION 3: California shares many similar traits to Hawaii; beaches, surfing, traffic; but can you share with our readers some insight into the Hawaii traditions, values, and culture…California style.

Here in San Diego we have been preserving the language, customs, music and ways of life as a hula dancer.

QUESTION 4: You’re the Kumu Hula of Napua Ilima ‘O Kehaulani, please share your the journey of your path with hula.

My journey started in Hawaii when I was 6 years old. My mom is 100% Hawaiian and wanted one of her children to carry on the Hawaiian traditions. I was chosen to carry-on that tradition. Being as young as I was my understanding of such a burden was not comprehensible. When I moved to the mainland in 1984 my thoughts of hula was retirement. Instead my destiny was to take me to San Diego to become a Kumu Hula. This was not planned it just happened. I have been teaching for over 20 years and going strong.

QUESTION 5: For someone from Hawaii considering moving to California what kind of advice would you give?

When you feel homesick for Hawaii there are ways to make your stay a bit more satisfying. Checkout the halau’s in your area, look into the hui that are involved with Hawaiiana. A good source to check would be Aloha World. They have many connections with the Hawaiian Community. This will keep you close to home.

QUESTION 6: What’s your favorite sound, smell from Hawaii?

My favorite sound from Hawaii is the Hawaiian music and the smell of the plumerias and different flowers of Hawaii.

QUESTION 7: What organizations or clubs are you involved with that continue the traditions, values, and culture of Hawaii?

The Hui O Hawaii of San Diego and Kulia I Ka Punawai Association (Kumu Hula Association of Southern California).

QUESTION 8: Share with our readers what’s coming up for the remainder of 2009 and 2010 for you, your halau, and organizations?

We have just completed the 2009 E Hula Mau Competition and the 15th Pacific Islander Festival. We are now preparing for the 2009 Kori Kori Tahitian Competition in Las Vegas. For 2010, preparation for E Hula Mau and San Jose Tahiti Fete as well as Kulia I Ka Punawai presentation of Queen Liliuokalani concert.

As you can see, Kehaulani has provided a glimpse into the many ways Hawaii’s traditions, values, and culture continue to thrive outside of the islands. She shares, “We as a Hawaiian Nation need to carry on the traditions and culture of Hawaii no matter where we are living. The spirit of Aloha and Ohana travels as far as it takes us. We should never forget where we come from….Live Hawaii!”