A revered international and Kauaʻi cultural presence, Puna Kalama Dawson epitomizes the essence of aloha, whether formally teaching Hula or cozy at home. “Aloha is the characteristic of mankind — to be kind — and to build relationships between one another. We must understand we cannot exist in this world alone, and find the common threads that we share in the global family,” Puna describes passionately. 

Puna is a shining community figure and is pivotal in supporting numerous programs, events, and organizations that celebrate diversity and Hawaiian cultural values. From seed exchanges and surf meets to festivals and sacred ceremonies, Puna brings a gift of ancient Hawaiian wisdom with a family lineage that traces back through many island generations. She is a Hawaiian Cultural Practitioner, affordable housing advocate, finance expert, local activist, and founder of Līhuʻe Townhomes.