Kanai‘a, was born and raised in Kalihi on the island of O‘ahu. He graduated from the University Laboratory School in 1991. He furthered his education at the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa and earned his Bachelors Degree in Hawaiian Studies, his teaching certificate, and a Masters Degree in Elementary Education, with an emphasis in multicultural education. He is proud to say that he was the first in his family to earn a Masters degree.

Kanai‘a has been working as a graphic designer for about 9 years. His design career began with the ‘Aha Punana Leo. He eventually ended up with PBR HAWAII where he has been employed for the past 7 years. He recently established a Graphic Design Department and has been named the Company’s Creative Director.

Kanai‘a’s passion for Hawaiian music began at the Lab School. The influences of his Hawaiian language / culture teacher, Aunty Olga Kalama, as well his choral teacher, Nola Nahulu, initiated a wild dream of one day becoming a professional Hawaiian musician. Kanai‘a considers himself the rookie of the group. His training in music consists of “required” choir classes at University Laboratory School, and watch-and-learn Jam sessions after school with friends. During his college career at UH, his love for Hawaiian music inspired him to take over four years of Hawaiian Language, so he could understand and better appreciate the music that he enjoyed listening to.

His musical influences include the Makaha Sons, Olomana, The Brothers Cazimero, The Kahauanu Lake Trio, The Sons of Hawai‘i, Aunty Genoa Keawe, Kalapana, and Stevie Wonder. His goal in life is to inspire younger generations, especially his daughter, Emma, to appreciate and embrace Hawaiian Music and Language, just as his colleagues and predecessors have inspired him. Kanai‘a would like to thank God for his family and friends who have supported him through the years. Without Him, without them, he has absolutley nothing to sing for.

kanaia@holunape.com