Documentary in English & Hawaiian language
Duration: 15 mins
Eight million American tourists visit Hawaii every year and from the outside it may look like paradise, but few know it’s dark history. Today, only 5% speak the native Hawaiian language and 10% live in poverty. There is real danger of losing customs and traditions forever.
“I am Kanaka” gives a glimpse into ex-teacher Kaina Makua and his after-school education program on the island of Kauai in Hawai’i. Originally trained as a Teacher, Kaina became disillusioned with the conventional public education system, so he set up his own non-profit organisation “Kumano I Ke Ala” to support and teach Hawaiian language, sustainability and life skills to disadvantaged local kids aged 5-20.
Does Hawai’I have a future? It will depend on people like Kaina.
