Fellows mentioned in this story: Jeff Mikulina
From KHON2:
In this year-end episode of Empowered Hawai‘i, hosts Jeff Mikulina and Kelly Simek highlight the inspiring work of organizations dedicated to restoring and protecting Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty, showcasing how these efforts are strengthening ecosystems, preserving endangered species, and connecting people to the land.
First, Jeff visits Jenna Patague of the Army Natural Resources Program Oʻahu. Together, they explore the Waianae Mountain Range, where the program focuses on reintroducing native Hawaiian plants into their natural habitats. Jenna proudly shares the program’s successes, such as cultivating critically endangered plants in their nursery—some of which exist nowhere else in the world. She emphasizes that the program welcomes civilian volunteers, offering an opportunity for everyone, not just those in the military.
Next, Kelly meets Allison Valdez of Protect and Preserve Hawaiʻi, who is leading efforts to restore Pia Valley in East Oʻahu. Through the removal of invasive guinea grass and the replanting of native Hawaiian plants, Allison and her team are rejuvenating the valley’s natural ecosystem. She also discusses how volunteers play a vital role in their mission, inviting viewers to join hands in protecting this cherished land.
Finally, Jeff and Kelly head to Sandy Beach to connect with Reese Liggett and Suzan Harada, Outings Leaders for the Sierra Club of Hawaiʻi. The duo shares the Sierra Club’s ongoing work to clean and restore the coastline, ensuring these beaches remain pristine for future generations. Their passion for conservation underscores the importance of community involvement in tackling environmental challenges.
As the year closes, Empowered Hawai‘i celebrates the impactful work of these organizations and invites viewers to join the effort. Whether through planting native species, clearing invasive grasses, or cleaning coastlines, these actions show how collective care for the land can lead to a brighter, greener future for Hawaiʻi.
Watch at khon2.com.
Maui Now — Every year, Hawaiʻi Community Lending hosts the event to bring together funders, investors, government agencies and local families to lift up solutions that are housing Hawaiʻi’s residents.