OHA Land Department discusses educational impact of properties on Hawaii Island

In a recent meeting of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) Committee on Investment and Land Management, discussions centered around the stewardship of land and its potential impact on local communities. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of purpose as trustees and community members gathered to explore how OHA's initiatives could foster educational opportunities and cultural engagement.

The meeting featured a poignant moment when Germaine Myers, an OHA beneficiary and advocate, shared her insights on the importance of land management and educational outreach. With a focus on the Vaukele Opuna property on Hawaii Island, Myers highlighted the potential for OHA to create meaningful connections between Native Hawaiian culture and the broader community. She emphasized the need for partnerships with local schools, particularly in her home area of Nanakuli, where a significant number of students could benefit from such initiatives.

Myers pointed out that the three schools in her community serve approximately 1,900 students, and when considering their families, the impact could reach over 7,800 individuals. She urged the trustees to consider how OHA's educational programs could extend beyond the Big Island, fostering a statewide impact that aligns with the organization's mission to educate and empower Native Hawaiians.

As the meeting progressed, the trustees listened intently, acknowledging the importance of community input in shaping OHA's direction. The discussion underscored a commitment to not only preserve land but also to utilize it as a platform for cultural education and community engagement.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a reminder of the vital role that land management plays in the lives of Native Hawaiians. As OHA continues to navigate its responsibilities, the voices of community members like Myers will be essential in guiding its efforts toward a more inclusive and impactful future. The potential for collaboration between OHA and local schools could pave the way for enriching experiences that connect students to their heritage and the world around them.