Promoting nutrition education, research, and policy related to food access, food sovereignty, and food systems
E OLA MAU : Our Foundation
Our work is rooted in the enduring legacy of E Ola Mau, the guidepost for Native Hawaiian health advocacy and program development for decades. Beginning with the 1985 E Ola Mau Report, which identified key health disparities and cultural priorities, and continuing through the most recent 2023 update, our mission remains clear: to uplift the health and well-being of our communities through culturally grounded and holistic approaches.
One of the most critical aspects of our work has been nutrition, recognizing its profound impact on the overall health of Native Hawaiians. The original E Ola Mau study highlighted diet-related health disparities, such as increased rates of diabetes and heart disease, underscoring the urgent need to restore traditional food systems, improve access to nourishing foods, and integrate ancestral wisdom into modern health strategies. Our ongoing efforts build on this foundation, emphasizing food sovereignty, community-based education, and sustainable nutrition practices to promote lifelong well-being.
The 2023 E Ola Mau Update reaffirms our commitment to these principles, incorporating contemporary research and community-driven solutions to further address nutritional health, chronic disease prevention, and overall wellness. By weaving together the ʻike of our kūpuna with innovative health strategies, we continue to advocate for policies and programs that support a thriving, resilient lāhui.
Our foundation is strong. E ola mau—may life endure.
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Program Staff
Nāpua Casson-Fisher
she/her/ʻo ia
Director, Community Initiatives
Camille McComas
Program Specialist - Substance Use & Mental Health
Falahola Kanongataa
Program Specialist, ’Ohana CoE
Cathy Ferreira
she/her/ʻo ia
Administrative Support
Lilinoe Kauahikaua
she/her/ʻo ia
Program Coordinator - Substance Use & Mental Health
Kawehi Moderow
Population Health Specialist - Chronic Conditions
Kuaiwi Laka Kahiwakapu Pili I Haupapanui Makua
Population Health Specialist - Environmental Health, Nutrition & Oral Health
Kia‘i Lee
Native Hawaiian Traditional Healing Coordinator
Ikaika Regidor
ʻoia/they/he
Education & Training Coordinator
Contact
Kuaiwi Laka Makua
808-597-6550