Evy Braum, 'Āina Education Specialist
Evy returns to Mālama Learning Center after completing her Master's degree from the University of Hawai`i at Mānoa, Natural Resources and Environmental Management program. We first met Evy as a Kupu Americorps environmental education intern as she worked with Jeremy Soriano in his biology classes. She then taught biology at Kapolei High for one year before returning to college to earn her graduate degree. Now, Evy expands our efforts in 'āina education, working with new audiences of students and teachers as well as helping to facilitate growth of our Ola Nā Kini education program. We're so happy to welcome Evy back! |
Kristine Aiko Kawakami, Nursery and Restoration Technician
Aiko joined Mālama Learning Center in Fall 2020, building upon her love for growing plants and teaching. Aiko spent many formative years at Windward Community College as a student, tutor, and student instructor. She completed the Agripharmatech program, receiving certificates in Ethnopharmacognosy, plant phytobiology technology, and plant food production. Through mentorship from Dr. Teena Michael, her love of native plants was rekindled. She says, "I am thankful and honored to have the opportunity to be a part of the Mālama Learning center, and all that they are able to organize and accomplish for West O'ahu. I hope to incorporate some of the fun biomedicinal products I've learned how to make from agripharmatech and personal research over the years. I hope to continue aiding in efforts to excite and cultivate a new generation of sustainable and culturally rich stewards. Science is AMAZING!!!" |
Adam Hanohano, Ola Nā Kini Alaka'i 'Āina
Adam Hanohano was raised throughout the 'Ewa moku and draws inspiration from stories of its abundance and in his optimism that ‘āina momona will return to the region. He currently resides in Pu‘uloa/ 'Ewa Beach with his wife and 3 keiki who are his greatest advocates and are the source of his motivation. Adam is a graduate of the Plant Biology and Tropical Agriculture program at Leeward Community College and is currently on hiatus from the Sustainable Community Foods program at the University of Hawai’i West O’ahu. What drew Adam to the Mālama Learning Center is the work being done to lift up and support the West O’ahu community, the wide range of ‘āina stewardship projects, and a vision which paints a hopeful future for all of Hawai’i. A love for ‘āina has thoroughly enveloped Adam’s life and free time is often spent working on outside projects or with his ‘ohana engaged in related activities. Adam is a firm believer in Ma ka hana ka ‘ike [in working one learns] and is guided by a Mark Twain quote which states, “Don't let schooling interfere with your education.” |