​Pōmaikaʻi Freed - Leo Kupa Podcast #7

Before passing Kumu Alva J. Andrews placed the kuleana of his Pā, Pā Ola Hawaiʻi, in the hands of Pōmaikaʻi Freed.  He also organized the structure of his Pā with people in positions around her to assist her in carrying on his lineage and fulfilling his vision. ​Pōmaikaʻi Freed, of Kalihi, began studying under Uncle Alva while still a student at Hālau Kū Mana Public Charter School. During her senior year, Uncle Alva came to Hālau Kū Mana to talk to the students of a lomilomi elective class. She sat there in awe as he shared his jokes and wisdom.  With the few remaining minutes of class, he adjusted one of the teachers -- and that was it; she was hooked. This single meeting changed the course of her life.  For the better part of the next 7 years was spent living with, learning from, and being molded by her Kumu, friend and mentor. From a very young age her family, hula hālau, and school instilled within her a deep Hawaiian cultural foundation.  This foundation brought to life many of the things that Uncle Alva envisioned for the future of his Pā. Possessing the fire of youth with the wisdom of her kūpuna, Pōmaikaʻi is a continual inspiration and help for so many of all generations.