NA HUI IKAIKA
Powerful Organizations
Meet our Board of Directors
KEAHI WARFIELD
MAILE DEE LESLIE
Growing up in Kealia on the Big Island of Hawaii, Maile was raised having respect and passion for the ocean. Paddling from a young age instilled a lifestyle, drive, and love for the ocean and culture that she shares with everyone. Maile has coached at Kai'Opua Canoe Club from keiki to adults and her enthusiasm for the sport is contagious. She has seen the world and experienced other cultures courtesy of the sport. The outrigger canoe paddling community was an integral part of Maile's upbringing and she is excited to give back to the young ladies of Na Hui Ikaika.
KRISTIN JOY OLD
Sports have always been a passion of Kristin's, especially those that involve water. Swimming was her childhood sport that transcended into triathlons as an adult. She has competed in Olympic to Ironman distance triathlons, which ignited an interest in starting a youth triathlon club at Kealakehe High School where she currently teaches Mathematics. Her drive for athletics has now shifted to outrigger canoe paddling where she competes in one man races, canoe surfing competitions, sailing events, and distance change races. One would say she's made it a lifestyle. Because Kristin has a predilection for youth, teaching, and sports, she established Na Hui Ikaika. She looks forward to being a mentor to young ladies, bolstering their self-esteem, and empowering them to be the best version of themselves.
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JUN BALANGA
OCIV Hawaii & Hulakai are founded by Jun, a local waterman who was born and raised in Hawaii. His original Hawaiian designs are proven and tested in Hawaiian waters regularly by him and the OCIV/Hulakai crew. His passion for the ocean and Hawaiian culture is apparent in his dedication to the sport of outrigger, willingness to teach others, and the lifestyle he lives with his ohana.
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MELANIE KELEKOLIO
One of Mel's favorite memories as a young child was watching her father paddling outrigger canoe at Honaunau, having a strong desire to be on the water, and begging him to put her in the canoe. After he capitulated, she was hooked for life. Mel has a formidable paddling resume that has allowed her to travel and make life-long friends with people all over the world. From winning Vaka Eiva in Rarotonga to Queen Liliu'okalani Distance Race, her passion for the sport is nothing short of formidable. She shares her knowledge, respect, and love for outrigger canoe paddling as the head women's coach at Kai'Opua Canoe Club, but before working with adults she grew the young ladies program for years. Mel is a great asset to Na Hui Ikaika and is a phenomenal role model for all.