A like-minded group of indigenous people wanted to do something about a problem that has, at some time, affected everyone. They wanted to do something about the drug use and crime among teenagers and young adults in our coastal community. After considering many venues, it was agreed, the best tool to reach the youth of the Wai’anae coast would be to connect them to their ocean. Guidance from the e
lders and leaders in the community helped to gain direction and give much needed support. With this support, excitement and determination grew stronger. After all, it started as just an idea among friends. When you’re looking for a sailing canoe, word gets around. In due course, the friends located a suitable wa’a in Vanuatu, Tonga. With many blessings and the help of new friends, the wa’a is shipped to Oahu, Hawai’i. One of the original builders of the traditional voyaging wa’a, Iosepha journeyed with them to Tonga. Other wa’a builders, craftsmen, captains and ocean people hear of the floating classroom idea and give knowledge and advice. By the time the wa’a arrives, there are many who are ready to help. Elders and leaders who gave advise in the beginning come to oversee the build. Agencies such as Polynesian Voyaging Society provide support. Countless donated hours of skilled work, food, drink and other necessities from the community are crucial and heartfelt. The circle of friends swells, more and more start to carry the idea of the floating classroom. Completed in 100 days, the first of its kind to be re-purposed as an educational vessel and classified as “New Build” under Coast Guard standards, KAMOAULI is a floating classroom. Today, we see Kamoauli as a symbol of change and education for the children of the Wai’anae coast. Partnered with the Department of Education and other public-school systems, Kamoauli offers field trips with a curriculum which meets DOE standards and encompass S.T.E.M. Every child has access to the wa’a and the education it offers. Continuing with momentum, we are developing programs and undergoing sea trials. We are always looking for other passionate people in education, navigation, way finding, storytelling, boating and water life. Please contact us if you are interested in being a part of our future. If you have a marine or educational activity in mind that you would like to do on the ocean, come talk to us, we would love to help.
