Tahitian: Horo Te Vaʻa
Class info:
Horo Te Vaʻa offers a vibrant journey into Tahitian culture through an ʻOri Tahiti program. Designed for teens ages 12–18, this program blends physical movement with cultural learning to strengthen both body and identity.
You’ll build stamina, rhythm, and discipline through sustained practice while exploring choreography, drumming, and narratives that honor Tahitian heritage. Dancing together in an ensemble fosters teamwork, leadership, and a sense of belonging, helping you navigate the challenges of adolescence with confidence and connection.
This program opens doors to an arts pathway often less accessible than sports or academics, giving you a chance to see your Pacific heritage represented and celebrated. Along the way, you’ll grow resilience, pride, and cultural visibility within your community.
Whether you’re new to dance or ready to deepen your skills, this space welcomes you to celebrate the rhythm of Tahiti.
Ages: 12-18
Schedule: Wednesdays
Time: 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Start Date: 01/21/2026
End Date: 05/06/2026
Meet the team
Learn more about the team behind the Tahitian: Horo Te Vaʻa- 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.