Kūʻikeokalani “Kū’ike” Kamakea-ʻŌhelo began his role as OHA’s Director of ʻŌiwi Wellbeing and ʻĀina in March of 2024.
Kamakea-ʻŌhelo is responsible for supporting the planning and execution of OHA’s wellbeing efforts. He will advance policies, programs and practices that reinforce Hawaiian wellbeing by strengthening ʻŌiwi (cultural Identity), Ea (self-governance), ʻĀina Momona (healthy lands and people), Pilina (relationships), Waiwai (shared wealth), and Ke Akua Mana (spirituality).
Kamakea-ʻŌhelo most recently served as a research specialist for the Swette Center for Sustainable Food Systems at Arizona State University. His work focused on Indigenous food systems, traditional knowledge and sustainable agricultural practices. He is a former project manager for Partners in Development, a current member of the State of Hawaiʻi Land Use Commission and president of the Board of Directors for Cho Global Natural Farming Hawaiʻi.
