ʻAihaʻa
Class info:
Aihaʻa is a journey into Hawaiian tradition and self-discovery. Designed for ʻōpio (youth) ages 12–18, this program focuses on Native Hawaiian youth and welcomes students from diverse backgrounds.
You’ll learn rhythm, movement, and technique grounded in hula, while exploring mele and oli that carry ancestral knowledge and values like teamwork, respect for kūpuna (ancestors and elders), and aloha ʻāina (stewardship, identity and responsibility). Through practices like piko, you’ll deepen cultural pride and responsibility while building physical stamina and resilience.
This isn’t just about performance, it’s about connection. You’ll collaborate with your kumu hula to create narration for a showcase, step into leadership roles, and express yourself with confidence. Along the way, you’ll strengthen pilina with peers and grow in body, mind, and spirit.
No experience needed, just curiosity and openness. Join Aihaʻa and carry forward the ʻike, values, and aloha that sustain our community.
Ages: 12-18
Schedule: Mondays
Time: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Start Date: 01/26/2026
End Date: 05/04/2026
Meet the team
Learn more about the team behind the ʻAihaʻa – Spring program.
TeHani Gonzado Pimental
Program Manager, ʻŌlino Pathways – Dance
TeHani Gonzado Pimental
Program Manager, ʻŌlino Pathways – Dance
TeHani Gonzado Pimental serves as the Program Manager for ʻŌlino Pathways Dance at Liliʻuokalani Center. She was born and raised in Kaʻelepulu and now resides in the lush valley of Mānoa. She is a passionate advocate for youth development through the arts, leading with innovation, cultural grounding, and heart.
She is the founder and director of her own dance program, now in its 12th successful year. Her curriculum fuses cultural dance and performance-based learning in both Hula and Hip-Hop and has become a trusted resource for students seeking a future in the arts. In addition to her broad dance leadership, TeHani is a former Miss Aloha Hula and the proud kumu and founder of her own hālau hula, Hālau Nā Mamo O Kealamailani.
Throughout her career, TeHani’s mission has remained the same: to inspire and empower youth to reach their fullest potential.
Pua Baker
Dance Instructor
Pua Baker
Dance Instructor
Pua Baker is the Dance Instructor at the Liliuokalani Center with a focus practice in ‘Ori Tahiti (Tahitian Dance). ‘Ori Tahiti has been a passion for her since she was 7 years old. Pua is currently one of the assistant instructors for the Pupu ‘Ori (Tahitian Dance Group) Ma’ohi Nui here on O‘ahu.
She had the honor of traveling the world, including to Tahiti, to compete in various competitions, winning many awards and overall titles. Pua also had the privilege of traveling to Japan to teach workshops to various dance groups there. She enjoys traveling, health & wellness, DIY, hiking, sunsets, and spending time with family.
We’re here for you!
Our team can’t wait to get to know you. Connect with us to learn more and get involved.