Alakaʻi

As the Executive Director of Laʻiʻopua 2020 (L2020), Kawehi’s kuleana is to work with the organization’s board of directors and lead a team of professionals to ensure L2020’s mission and goals are met. To fulfill the mission of L2020, Kawehi draws on her culture as a native Hawaiian and uses “Hawaiian Values” as a foundation to serving the community. She oversees the operations, programs, and projects of the organization. Leadership, business, and human resource management skills obtained as a pilot/flight instructor, founder and former CEO of Mokulele Airlines, Founder & CEO of Kūpa’a Business Planner (a strategic business planning firm) and former Director of the County of Hawaii’s Department of Research and Development have provided Kawehi with an instinctive ability to support her team of experienced and passionate L2020 staff.

Kawehi currently lives with her family on the slopes of Hualālai in the ahupuaʻa of Kohanaiki, Kona. Her dedication to her work and community is featured in Ka Wai Ola in an article titled “A Responsibility to Succeed”, highlighting her journey and commitment to serving Hawaiʻi. 

Malia Louis is an accomplished administrator currently serving as Executive Assistant in Mayor Kimo Alameda’s administration. She brings extensive experience across the visitor industry, social services, business, and nonprofit sectors. Malia previously oversaw Hawai‘i and California operations for Mokulele Airlines, demonstrating strong leadership in operations, customer relations, and team coordination. Her background also includes work in community and youth development, event management, and organizational support. Known for her versatility and professionalism, Malia is deeply committed to building systems that support efficient administration and positive community impact. Her work reflects a passion for service and a deep connection to Hawai‘i’s people and values.

Merrick is a Kealakekua native who currently serves as Deputy Managing Director in Mayor Kimo Alameda’s administration. A graduate of Konawaena High School and Bucknell University, he brings a strong background in civil engineering and infrastructure management. For 14 years, Merrick worked with the County of Hawai‘i as a consulting and regulatory civil engineer, project manager, and construction manager. He also served as Operations and Facilities Manager for a private water company, gaining valuable experience in utility systems and service delivery. Merrick is deeply committed to public service, community well-being, and advancing responsible development throughout Hawai‘i Island.

Gayle brings a distinguished career as an executive in major publishing companies, and founder of her own consulting firm serving both private enterprises and non-profit organizations. With her clients, she collaborates closely with organizational leaders to identify opportunities, develop effective strategies, and drive meaningful results. A trusted advisor, Gayle offers tailored insights and views change management as both essential and rewarding. On Hawaii Island, Gayle worked with Ke Ola Magazine where she served as General Manager helping to refine its business model and increase readership. Her deep connection to Hawaii is reflected in her community involvement, business partnerships, and dedication to Hawaiian cultural arts, including hula and service associations.

Maggie is a visionary leader from Hilo, Hawaii, dedicated to positive community change. Returning to Hawaii in 1998, she aimed to heal indigenous trauma. In addition to studying psychology at UH Hilo, Maggie excels in entrepreneurship, business development, and real estate. As an Expedia Local Expert, she promoted responsible tourism. A licensed Surety Agent since 2017, Maggie advocates for criminal justice reform. She founded a business based on 'āina aloha principles, striving for a regenerative economic model in Hawaiʻi. Beyond her diverse interests, Maggie cherishes her role as a mother.

Kalei oversees Hawaii Community College Pālamanui and the University of Hawaii Center, West Hawaiʻi. With over three decades in higher education, Kalei, a Konawaena High School graduate, holds a Bachelor's in Sociology and a master’s in higher education. Committed to community service, she's a UH President's Emerging Leaders Program alumni and the first Kona resident to receive the Chancellor's Award. Kalei resides in Kalaoa and actively contributes to academic counseling, student support, grants administration, and various committees.