Building Youth Capacity Through Islandwide Resilience Academies

This summer, Vibrant Hawaiʻi Ambassadors hosted six Youth Resilience Academies across Hawaiʻi Island, engaging more than 60 youth between the ages of 12 and 18. These three-day academies are designed to equip participants with practical skills for managing adversity, and contributing to stronger, more prepared communities.

"The Academy plays a vital role in teaching us how to build resilience across every level of life—as individuals, within our relationships, in our families, and as communities," said Vibrant Hawaiʻi Ambassador, Nyka-Rae Laeda, "This is especially crucial in preparing for natural disasters and other real-world challenges, helping participants face adversity with strength and confidence."

Each academy began with a focus on individual and family resilience. Participants engaged in hands-on activities including 3D community mapping, assembling emergency go-bags, and developing personalized family emergency preparedness plans. The 3D mapping exercise, in particular, offered valuable insight into how youth perceive their neighborhoods. By constructing physical models of their communities, participants identified both strengths and areas of concern—highlighting issues such as housing affordability, social challenges, and difficulties in self-expression.

The second day centered around community safety and response. Youth received experience in Hands-Only CPR, basic first aid, situational awareness, and the concept of mālamalama—a culturally grounded understanding of clarity and awareness. These sessions were led by professionals from local agencies, offering youth direct access to experienced first responders and subject-matter experts.

On the final day, participants applied what they learned through team-based challenges, including a canned food cook-off and a resilience-themed relay race. These activities encouraged critical thinking, collaboration, and real-time problem-solving under pressure.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Agency, Hawaiʻi County Police Department, and Hawaiʻi County Fire Department for their active involvement and support. Their presence offered participants firsthand exposure to the essential roles of public safety professionals. In addition we also want to mahalo our guest presenters—Eduardo Linardi, Lee-Ann Heely, Breeani Kobayashi-Kualiʻi, Darryl Oliveira, Mileka Lincoln, Ilihia Gionson, Dr. Hannah Preston, Stacy Domingo, Kalisi Mausio, and Ashley Kierkiewicz—whose contributions enhanced the learning experience through their diverse expertise in community-centered work.

Through these academies, youth gained relevant tools to prepare for emergencies and better understand their roles within their communities. As Vibrant Hawaiʻi continues to expand its efforts, these academies remain a critical investment in the next generation’s readiness and resilience.