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Richard Ha, Desmon Haumea, and Kanani Aton

Meet the Founders

Richard Ha - Cultivating Sustainable Futures

Richard Ha, a true son of the Hawaiian soil, is renowned as the largest banana farmer in the state, producing over 6 million pounds of bananas annually. Later, embracing innovation, he became a hydroponic tomato farmer, yielding over 1 million pounds of tomatoes each year. Co-founder of Keoki and Malia, Richard's unwavering commitment to sustainable practices inspires others to cultivate a future where agriculture, the environment, and the well-being of Hawai'i's children intertwine harmoniously, ensuring a brighter and bountiful tomorrow.

 

​Desmon Haumea - Sailing the Seas of Heritage

Desmon Haumea's spirit is entwined with the sea that surrounds Hawai'i, and his love for the ocean has carried him on remarkable journeys. Born with an adventurous heart, Desmon is celebrated for his voyage aboard the Hokulea, a traditional Polynesian voyaging canoe. He embraced the wisdom of his ancestors, navigating the vast oceanic expanses using ancient wayfinding techniques, and in doing so, he rekindled the flame of Hawaiian maritime heritage. As a co-founder of Keoki and Malia, Desmon's passion for exploration and preservation brings forth the idea that the path to a brighter future lies in respecting the wisdom of the past. Through the Hokulea's teachings and a profound connection with the ocean, Desmon inspires others to cherish the beauty of Hawaiian culture and the natural world.

 

​Kanani Aton - Guiding with the Light of Culture

Kanani Aton, a guiding light of Hawaiian culture, is a born keeper of traditions and values. Rooted in the stories passed down through generations, Kanani has emerged as a moral compass, diligently preserving the rich heritage that defines the Hawaiian identity. With deep respect for the elders and a profound understanding of the significance of cultural knowledge, she stands as a beacon of wisdom for the community. As a co-founder of Keoki and Malia, Kanani illuminates the path toward a future where Hawaiian culture flourishes, fostering a sense of belonging and unity. Through her commitment to nurturing cultural pride and respect, Kanani urges others to embrace their roots and forge a legacy of strength and resilience for the generations yet to come.

 

​Founding Vision: Keoki and Malia

United by their shared love for the islands, Richard, Desmon, and Kanani came together with a common vision: to empower the children of Hawai'i and cultivate a brighter, sustainable future. Keoki and Malia serves as a living testament to their dreams, showcasing that the seeds of prosperity and cultural reverence can flourish on Hawaiian soil. Together, they champion the idea that staying true to one's roots, embracing sustainable practices, and preserving the invaluable cultural heritage of Hawai'i can lead to a thriving future for Keoki and Malia—the children who will one day become the ancestors of this unique island home. Through their journey, the founders aspire to leave an enduring legacy of hope, unity, and respect for the generations that will follow in their footsteps.

Who We Are

Our vision is to cultivate a nurturing and thriving environment for the children of Hawai'i, where they can grow, learn, and flourish. We envision a future where every child has access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities that empower them to reach their full potential.​We understand that creating a better future requires collective effort. We actively engage with communities, parents, educators, and local organizations to foster a supportive and nurturing environment for Keoki and Malia to thrive.​At our foundation we have initiatives to tackle the three primary goals that we believe have the largest impact on the future of Keoki and Malia:  Education, Health, and Sustainability.

 

Education for All

We believe that education is the key to unlocking a child's potential. We support initiatives that enhance access to quality education, learning resources, and extracurricular activities that inspire creativity and critical thinking.

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Health and Well-being

Ensuring the health and well-being of Keoki and Malia is paramount. We advocate for equitable access to healthcare services and initiatives that promote physical and mental well-being.

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Sustainability and Environment

As caretakers of this beautiful island home, we are dedicated to preserving its natural wonders for future generations. We champion sustainable practices and encourage environmental education to instill a sense of responsibility and love for the environment in Keoki and Malia.

About Us

Our Commitment to a Sustainable Future

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