For Lehia Apana, farming is an act of cultural reverence. Generations of Native Hawaiians before her proved to be master agriculturalists who were able to feed themselves using their island resources, including the nutrient-dense staple crop known as kalo (taro). She and her husband are growing kalo and other traditional crops on their three-acre farm in Waiehu, on the island of Maui. By approaching farming from a native perspective, they strive to not only feed the community, but also foster a cultural connection that feeds peopleʻs naʻau (heart). Put another way, Lehia believes that farming can help bring her people back to who they are as Hawaiians.
Congratulations Lehia!
Please join us in congratulating the recipients of the CCOF Foundation’s Future Organic Farmer Grants.