Waimea Community Education

Iini McDonald

The eldest of six children, Kumu Iini was born in Kealakekua, Hawai’i, to an ‘ohana that is deeply rooted in the Hawaiian culture. His mother belongs to the Keanaaina clan of North Kona. They are expert fishermen and are skilled in the art of Hawaiian dance and music. His father’s ‘ohana hails from the South of Kona. The Kihe family is also known for their musical talents and close tie to the sea.

Iini is a practitioner of hula and chant, and has performed extensively throughout the world, promoting the rich and beautiful culture of Hawai’i. He has studied under Buzzy Histo, Pua Case, Keala Ching, the Kanaka’ole ‘ohana, and most recently his great grandmother Hilda Keanaaina. Iini was in one of the first graduating classes of Kanu o ka ‘Aina NCPCS, and has a degree in Hawaiian lifestyles, Hula, and Track from Hawai’i Community College in Hilo. Iini has sailed on the double-hulled canoe, Makal’i with Na Kalai Wa’a, and was a member of Kawaihae Canoe Club for many years.

Kumu Iini is currently in his fifth year teaching at Punana Leo o Waimea Hawaiian Immersion Preschool and Family Based Education Center. He now resides in Kukuihaele, Hamakua.

Classes Taught by Instructor: