Our History

KULA's roots begin with the vision of founding kūpuna Maria Suganuma, Winona Freitas, and Rufina Molaka Lee, who laid the foundation for an organization grounded in education, culture, and community self-­determination. They were later joined by kūpuna Brenda Kekauoha, Leimomi Nahinu, and Ester Kekoa, whose guidance strengthened KULA's early direction and leadership.

Formed in 1992 by community women committed to improving educational outcomes for Homestead children, KULA was introduced by Dr. Liela Nitta and first envisioned as a community school for children and adults. Volunteers shaped its mission and programs, creating a community­-based organization dedicated to learning and opportunity.

KULA became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 1994 as Kula no nā Poʻe Hawaiʻi o Papakōlea, Kewalo, Kalawahine. Over time, its work expanded to include wellness clinics, youth programs, nutrition and exercise classes, traditional Hawaiian healing, and literacy fairs—responding to the evolving needs of the community.

Today, KULA continues to honor the legacy of its kūpuna and founders by providing culturally grounded education, health, and workforce development services that uplift ʻohana and strengthen Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander wellbeing.