NIUMALU — ‘Aina-based outreach was in full-swing Friday as the latest class of Leadership Kaua‘i took to the Alakoko “Menehune” Fishpond to aid nonprofit Malama Hule‘ia in its restoration of the area.
Leadership Kaua‘i Executive Director Char Ravelo called this “out-sight,” when you have the opportunity to gain perspective by experiencing and learning from another’s.
“They’ll be sore after this,” Ravelo said, noting that physical labor like this and giving back to the community gives perspective into the different ways people give to their communities.
In its 18th class year, Leadership Kaua‘i has been inviting community members to grow together through formative experiences together.
Friday marked just the second day of the 21-person class getting together. This class is made up of community members across various industries, including health care, technology, county services and education.
“They’re go-getters,” Ravelo said. “They’re fearless in approaching things. They’re curious and want to know how to make the best impact.”
During part of the day, members plucked invasives from the roots, and during the other half learned hands-on the history of the fishpond.
Later on in the program, the class will engage in community projects ranging from recycling to youth activities to economic diversification.
Next week, Leadership Kaua‘i will host a virtual “Aloha in Motion: Global Leadership Conference.” The two-day webinar, which begins Oct. 21 and costs $25, will feature local and international leaders, including Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce President Mark Perriello, former mayor and current County Councilmember Bernard Carvalho, as well as Digitial Product Owner of Michelin Roberts Kukainis and Kumu Hula Puna Kalama Dawson.
The conference will focus on civic engagement, corporate social responsibility and innovation in the agricultural-technology field. More information can be found on leadershipkauai.org.
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Sabrina Bodon, editor, can be reached at 245-0441 or sbodon@thegardenisland.com.
