KōCreate: A New Way of Leading Together

Rooted in the belief that communities already hold the wisdom, relationships, and creativity to chart their own course, KōCreate redefines what leadership and community engagement look like. It shifts the focus from extraction to cultivation—from collecting input to nurturing agency. KōCreate positions community members not as advisors to someone else’s agenda, but as architects of their own solutions.

On September 26, 27 community leaders from across Hawaiʻi Island came together for the first KōCreate gathering—an immersive experience designed to spark connection, deepen cultural grounding, and strengthen collective purpose. The gathering invited participants to step into a space of vulnerability and authenticity, where leadership was not defined by position or title, but by presence, reflection, and shared responsibility.

Throughout the weekend, hearts opened and stories unfolded. Participants embraced the uncomfortable, examined their own assumptions, and recognized the transformative impact they hold within their communities. There were tears, laughter, and moments of revelation—each interaction a testament to the power of belonging and the courage it takes to lead with aloha.

“Being in a circle with all of the KōCreators reminded me that I am not alone. As a healthcare worker and someone who gives deeply to the community that raised me, that moment filled me with strength and hope—knowing that across Hawaiʻi Island, there are others walking this journey of aloha and service alongside me,” shared KōCreator Kai Carvalho.

That sense of unity and shared purpose defined the weekend. For some, the gathering offered a renewed belief in what’s possible—not only within their communities, but within themselves. “We may have not known the impact of what we stepped into, but I believe confidence was built for those of us who believed we can’t make a difference or felt we were not equipped enough,” reflected KōCreator Kahanu Alcoran.

Over the next five months, KōCreators will strengthen their capacity to inspire action, hold inclusive spaces, and design initiatives rooted in community resilience. This is not just leadership development; it is the practice of collective transformation.

Because when people are invited to see themselves as capable of shaping the future, leadership becomes more than influence—it becomes shared kuleana. And through that, our communities move closer to thriving together.

Follow the journey of KōCreate and witness how local leaders are shaping a more connected, resilient Hawaiʻi Island at vibranthawaii.org/kocreate.