Papa Ola Lōkahi hosted the 2024 Kaʻōnohi Awards on Friday, June 28, 2024 at Washington Place.

2024 Awardees. (Standing L-R) Makana Cabanas (receiving the award for her father Kawewehi Pundyke), Dr. Alika Maunakea, ‘Olohe & Dr. Jerry Walker, First Lady Jaime & Governor Dr. Josh Green, Vernon Viernes, Dr. Adrienne Dillard, Puni Kekauoha, Dr. Jodi Leslie Matsuo; (seated L-R) Tammy Hoe Smith, Dr. Marjorie Leimomi Mau, Leina’ala Bright, Earl Kawa’a, Malina Kaulukukui, Pam Barretto-Silva (receiving the award for her husband Dane Ka’ohelani Silva), Francine Dudoit-Tagupa.

Twelve individuals and one community-based organization were honored for their contributions to the health and well-being of Native Hawaiians. Honorees represented many areas of excellence — health care, traditional healing, policy, activism, workforce development, leadership, health promotion and education.

The Ka‘ōnohi Award–named for Dr. Alexander Ka‘ōnohi, a naturopathic physician, pharmacist and botanist, descended from a long line of healers, who integrated western and traditional practices into his daily healing work–has been presented by Papa Ola Lōkahi since 1994 . 

More information about Dr. Ka‘ōnohi and past awards may be found here. 

E ola mau!