CONNECT PEOPLE

The Maui Nui Makai Network convenes regularly to strengthen the weave of internal relationships, 'ike, and, inspiration within the Network. 

Semi-Annual Gatherings

The Network convenes its Members twice a year for Semi-Annual Gatherings to strengthen relationships, share about our work, learn from one another, and learn new skills and information. These gatherings are where attendees introduce and share the genealogy of their projects, generational practices, share and elevate 'ike kupuna, and connection to 'aina. To learn more about past semi-annual gatherings, please visit our Purpose & History page!

Learning Exchanges

We conduct periodic Learning Exchanges with other Networks and groups across the world that empower communities and inspire action. Through exchanges, our Network Members share food, ceremony, knowledge, and time and explore similarities and differences in caring for makai areas. We feature a video from our 2023 Canoe People's Exchange with the Northern Chumash Tribal Council and Micronesian community members of We Are Oceania.

Mālama I Ke Kai Speaker Series 

We hosted the Mālama I Ke Kai Speaker Series from 2021-2023. The Virtual Speaker Series was a way to connect during the COVID pandemic, free to the public. Topics include case studies and experiences of indigenous and local community management of marine areas, co-management, replenishment area planning, and community engagement. The wisdom of these talks lives on via recordings - watch the Mālama I Ke Kai Speaker Series here!

Workdays & Site Visits

The Network supports habitat restoration in Maui Nui and promotes and participates in community volunteer and workday opportunities for our Members. Thanks to funding from NOAA's Habitat Restoration for Underserved Communities grant, we are honored to kōkua our Members towards the following goals: fishpond restoration, coastal and beach habitat restoration, and lo'i kalo and 'auwai restoration. 

Conferences & Events

Seen as a type of learning exchange, the Network encourages our Members to attend and present at conferences around the world. Conferences we've been part of to date include the Hawai'i Conservation Conference (HCC), International Union for Conservation of Nature 2016 (IUCN), International Marine Protected Areas Congress 2023 (IMPAC5), and International Congress for Conservation Biology 2025 (ICCB).