FOUNDER/KUMU HULA

Founder and kumu hula of San Diego Hula Academy, Kristin Kawenaokalā’iokalani “Kawena” Garuba, is dedicated to the preservation and cultivation of the Hawaiian culture through hula (Hawaiian dance), music, ‘olelo Hawaii (Hawaiian language) and crafts.  As a hula practitioner of 17 years, Kawena shares her wealth of knowledge with dancers of all ages and abilities.

Born in Canada and raised in Hawai’i, Kawena spent her childhood on O’ahu, HI. She attended St. Andrew’s Priory - a school founded by Queen Emma. The school was based on an approach of cultivating strong women and it had quite an impact on her. The school’s motto was Kulia I Ka Nu’u – Strive for the Highest, and it struck a deeply personal cord with her.

In 2022, Kawena completed ‘uniki with the Papa Lā’i class under loea hula Lehua Kawaikapuokalani Hewett and kumu hula, Ula Hewett.  It is through continuous studies and training that she draws her skills, inspiration and creativity to share with her students. She is blessed to be a part of the Kuhai Halau ‘ohana sharing in the history of this lineage deeply rooted in tradition.

Along with her ‘uniki sisters, PILI Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit focused on preserving and perpetuating the culture and traditions of hula, polynesian dance and other ethnic arts.