KōCreate: ʻOAKA Applications Open for Hawaiʻi Island Sophomores

Applications are now open for KōCreate: ʻOAKA—and with the April 17 deadline quickly approaching, now is the time for Hawaiʻi Island students to take the next step in their leadership journey.

KōCreate: ʻOAKA is a two-year civic leadership and workforce development pathway designed specifically for current high school sophomores entering their junior year in the Fall of 2026, creating the opportunity to grow alongside a cohort while building skills, experience, and confidence over time. By starting in junior year, students are able to fully engage in the program’s progression—from personal growth to real-world leadership and community impact.

Grounded in ʻike from our communities and a shared commitment to ʻauamo kuleana, the program prepares students to understand the systems shaping Hawaiʻi, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to the wellbeing of our people and ʻāina.

Participants don’t just learn—they apply. Through hands-on projects, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, students gain professional skills, earn references, access scholarship pathways, and step into paid opportunities that build both their resume and their sense of purpose.

This is for students who are curious, motivated, and ready to grow—not because they have all the answers, but because they are willing to learn, lead, and show up for their communities.

Applications close April 17, 2026, with notifications sent by May 15.

We invite students, families, and educators to help spread the word and encourage those ready for this journey to apply.

Send a cover letter and resume to oaka@vibranthawaii.org. Your cover letter should respond to the following prompts:

• Tell us about a leader you admire (someone you know personally or have learned from). What do you admire about them? Which of those qualities do you hope to grow in yourself through the KōCreate: ʻOAKA Program?

• How do you hope to use your leadership to give back to your school or community on Hawaiʻi Island?

For questions or concerns, email oaka@vibranthawaii.org.