We were so fortunate and blessed to be able to celebrate the launch party of the Pacific Islander Health Board of Washington! Led by amazing Pacific Islanders, in true indigenous fashion, they celebrated with 'ono food, talking story, delicious fruit drinks by Otai Kingdom, the must-have Electric Boogie, and performances by the University of Washington's Polynesian Student Alliance and, your own, Huraiti Mana! We always enjoy sharing what we can of 'Ōlelo Hawai'i (Hawaiian language), Hula, 'Ori Tahiti (Tahitian dance), and Reo Tahiti (Tahitian language) across Seattle and more -- but it is truly special to be able to share with our Pacific Islander communities. We had a fantastic time connecting and reconnecting with the leaders in our community of all ages, sharing laughs and excitement for what the future holds for our islander 'ohana here in Wakinekona, Washington. Māuruuru roa to Lika, Toka, Lynette, Taffy and all at U.T.O.P.I.A. for all of the beautiful work you do for our 'ohana, our feti'i, our families. 

We had an incredible time hosting our dear friend from Tahiti, master Hirohiti Tematahotoa as a part of Huraiti Mana's Workshop Series! Hiro worked tirelessly with a never-fading smile through an entire weekend of non-stop 'ori! We welcomed dancers from across Washington including Renton, Whidbey Island, Seattle, Everett, and even some from Cali! To all our PNW 'ori sisters and feti'i, we thank you for sharing your time with us in our studio, supporting our goals to continue connecting with each other and contributing what we can to the amazing Polynesian Community here. We extend a sincerest māuruuru to Hiro for sharing his incredible wealth of knowledge and passion of his people, his culture, his language, and dance. Hiro is so full of life, never-ending creativity, and contagious laughter. We are so fortunate that he was able to make a visit to Seattle in his long journey across the world this year. Hiro, you are welcome back in our homes any time! 

Keep an eye out for our next workshops coming up at the end of May! If you'd like to hear first about our workshops, please email us at huraitimana@gmail.com.