How Does Hikaloi Inform Community-Driven Change?

At the Hawaiʻi Pacific Evaluation Association Conference, Vibrant Hawaiʻi Youth Ambassadors shared a story not just about data, but about transformation — introducing participants to Hikaloi, a Hawaiian practice of self-evaluation that guides both personal and community growth.

For Vibrant Hawaiʻi, Hikaloi is more than a survey or checklist. It’s a way to see where we are — as individuals and as a collective — on a journey toward thriving communities, where people "Get Chance" and "Get Choice". It starts with a simple but powerful idea: the one thing each of us can truly change is ourselves. When we pause to reflect on what we believe about who we are, each other, and our communities, we begin to see the invisible barriers that can separate us — and the opportunities to bridge them.

Through this reflective process, Hikaloi helps reveal who is engaged in Vibrant Hawaiʻi’s work and who is missing. It shows what regions, generations, and sectors are represented — and whose voices still need to be heard. In fact, it was through Hikaloi data that Vibrant Hawaiʻi identified a gap in Gen Z participation, which directly inspired the creation of ʻOAKA, a youth leadership program that has since doubled young people’s representation across initiatives.

“Learning from other organizations reminded us that reflection isn’t just about gathering information — it’s about understanding the people we serve and how our work impacts them. Hikaloi reminds us that when people feel seen, capable, and connected, they’re more likely to take action for their community. By reflecting, learning, and taking action together, we help build a Hawaiʻi where every person can belong, grow, and make a lasting impact," said Nyka-Rae Laeda, Vibrant Hawaiʻi Ambassador.

Mahalo to The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation and Joyce Lee-Ibarra for creating the space to share our practices, reflect together, and celebrate the work that moves our communities forward.

Discover more about Hikaloi and the methods Vibrant Hawaiʻi uses to strengthen communities and create meaningful impact. Learn more at vibranthawaii.org/methodology.