Hawaiʻi Youth Foundation
Equipping Hawaiʻi's youth with culturally grounded tools to navigate cyberbullying, build emotional resilience, and reconnect to identity, confidence, and belonging.
Our Mission
We deliver culturally grounded, school-based programs that strengthen Social-Emotional Learning, equipping Hawaiʻi's youth with the skills to prevent and respond to cyberbullying, navigate online conflict, and engage in positive self-expression through creative and cultural practices.
Measurable Impact
Will demonstrate increased competency in SEL skills measured by pre- and post-program assessments.
Will report improved ability to navigate digital interactions safely and responsibly.
Will engage in structured creative or cultural activities supporting school connectedness and well-being.
What We Do
Our school-based curriculum weaves Hawaiian cultural identity into evidence-based SEL frameworks. Young people don't just learn skills — they reconnect to who they are, building the inner foundation needed to thrive both online and in life.
Building self-awareness, self-regulation, and responsible decision-making through culturally resonant practices grounded in Hawaiian values.
Equipping youth with tools to recognize, respond to, and prevent cyberbullying while developing a positive and responsible digital presence.
Providing structured cultural and creative outlets — dance, art, storytelling — as pathways to identity, belonging, and emotional healing.
"This program aligns with school-wide efforts to promote safe and supportive learning environments, reduce bullying behaviors, and improve student engagement and well-being."
The ʻŌhiʻa Lehua
Native to Hawaiʻi, the lehua grows and thrives in volcanic environments — often the first plant to regenerate after destruction. It carries the story of ʻŌhiʻa and Lehua: love, separation, and emotional depth. When separated, it is said the skies cry — just as cyberbullying causes real disconnection and real pain. This foundation believes healing is always possible, and that individuals can grow back stronger, supported, and deeply connected.
Our Story
and a foundation built on aloha
Oriana Lulu is a wife, mother of two, and Polynesian dancer currently performing in ʻAuana with Cirque du Soleil. She also serves as Partnerships and Promotion Manager for Mauka Warriors Luau.
After experiencing cyberbullying firsthand alongside her husband, Oriana witnessed the emotional and physical toll it takes on individuals and families. Through Makaʻio Aloha Foundation, Oriana is committed to turning pain into purpose and empowering the next generation to lead with aloha — both online and in everyday life.
Tai Lulu is a cultural entrepreneur, craftsman, and Polynesian performer. Co-founder of TNT Tusks, specializing in handcrafted necklaces that merge traditional Fijian and Māori techniques with modern wear.
After experiencing cyberbullying alongside Oriana, Tai became a founding voice of Makaʻio Aloha Foundation — bringing his philosophy of cultural reconnection, service, and creative expression to the foundation's mission.
"The pathway to leadership is through service. And the pathway to healing is through service as well."
— Oriana Lulu, Founder
Ori & Tai
Our Why
This platform was born from personal testimony. As founder of the Makaʻio Aloha Foundation — a nonprofit dedicated to ending cyberbullying — I know this pain firsthand. In March 2026, my family and I were cyberbullied by someone we trusted. That pain was real, and there were moments we felt completely alone. But we refused to stay there. Through the lens of aloha, we rise — equipping Hawaiʻi's youth and families with the tools to prevent cyberbullying, build resilience, and strengthen connection, because every person deserves to feel loved, seen, and never alone.
Our Name
Makaʻio means “eye of the Hawaiian hawk.” The ʻio sees clearly, rises above the noise, and moves with intention. That is the heart of our work. In a world where youth are often overwhelmed by what happens online, Makaʻio Aloha Foundation teaches them to pause, rise above harmful noise, and respond with awareness instead of reaction. Like the hawk, we guide them to see clearly, protect their peace, and move forward with strength and purpose.
Join the Movement
Whether you're an educator, community member, or supporter, there's a place for you in this work. Together we protect, uplift, and guide the next generation.
