Ke 'Olu Makani 501(c)(3) Board Members
Board President
Jessica "Kapua" Anahu
Jessica Kapua Anahu grew up in Volcano, Hawai’i, on a cymbidium orchid farm, where the beauty of nature and the hard work of her family were constant influences. She began dancing hula for Hālau Ke ʻOlu Makani O Mauna Loa at the age of eight and was later honored with the kuleana of becoming alakaʻi, carrying the responsibility of leadership and instilled strong work ethic and deep appreciation for nature, culture and community.
As a dedicated nurse practitioner in Hilo, she brings the same care and commitment to her patients that she learned from her deep-rooted connection to Hawaiian culture. Outside of work, she finds balance and joy in a range of activities that highlight her love for both nature and movement such as riding horses, spending time at the beach and in the water, reading, and gardening.
Now serving as the president of Ke ʻOlu Makani non-profit organization, she works to fulfill the organizationʻs mission to “perpetuate and strengthen the Hawaiian culture through hula, music, arts, history, and cultural practices,” sharing the values and traditions of Hawai’iʻs heritage with others.
Board Vice President
Lynn Melena
Lynn Melena brings to our board a wide variety of skills and experiences to share as a co-founder of a mainland Hawaiian nonprofit civic club as well as serving as a past governing board member of the Volcano School of Arts and Sciences (VSAS) and an advisory member of the Friends of VSAS.
As a civil servant for 31 years, Lynn brings organizational expertise as a former federal contracts manager with the US Department of Interior. Lynn, as an educational scholar-practitioner, has a PhD. in Education with a specialty in Learning, Instruction, and Innovation. Her qualitative research focused on instructional methods used by kumu hula across multiple generations and the transmission of cultural values.
A native of Maui, Lynn’s interests are in all aspects of Native Hawaiian culture, especially hula, fine arts, travel, and family.
Board Treasurer
Pua Kalauli Norris
Puanani Norris, born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, answered the call of adventure early, joining the Navy at 18 and living abroad before returning home to her island roots. Since then, she has successfully run multiple bed-and-breakfasts, supported numerous nonprofits, and organized hula fundraisers, all while helping manage her family business. Along the way, Pua and her husband adopted several stray animals and joined a local motorcycle club, deepening their connection to the community.
Known for her perseverance and infectious personality, Pua embodies the Hawaiian proverb, ‘A‘ohe hana nui ke alu ‘ia—“No task is too big when done together.” Through every challenge, she remains a beacon of joy, always lifting others with her positive spirit and warm heart.
Board Secretary
Michelle "U'ilani" Pisano
U’ilani is a dedicated hula dancer with Hālau Ke Olu Makani O Mauna Loa, under the guidance of Meleana Manuel since late 2019. She has actively participated in competitions and public performances, showcasing her passion for this cultural art form.
In addition to her artistic endeavors, U’ilani offers web design services and has played a vital role in establishing a prior nonprofit, as well as assisting to organize Ke Olu Makani 501 c3 where she serves as secretary on the board, contributing to the professional hula community. Entrepreneurially inclined, U’ilani manages three small businesses: a charming bed and breakfast in the Volcano area, a Hawaiian accessories brand, and a concierge service catering to the needs of East Hawai’i residents. Her diverse skill set and commitment to both the arts and local community make her a dynamic partner and an asset to the board.
Board Advisor
Meleana Manuel
Kumu Meleana Manuel is the leader of Hālau Ke ‘Olu Makani O Mauna Loa, based in Kilauea-Volcano, Hawai’i, with branches in Hilo, Honolulu, California, and Japan. She received her ‘uniki rites from Master Kumu Hula George Na’ope in 2007. Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2020, her hālau has won numerous awards in hula competitions across various divisions.
Meleana has been studying hula since age four, performing extensively throughout Europe, Asia, and North America. She currently performs at The Grand Naniloa Hotel and Hula Hula’s Restaurant, sharing her passion for music and hula with others.
A former pageant director and model, she has trained many young women in pageantry and graced magazine covers, including Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Company. A graduate of Kamehameha Schools, she is dedicated to teaching hula and Hawaiian culture in a supportive environment.
Board Advisor
David Maiola "Uncle" Manuel Jr.
Born in Kioloka’a Homestead, Waiohinū, on the island of Hawai’i, David has dedicated his life to serving the community and preserving its rich cultural heritage. With 40 years of experience as a Facilities Manager at Kilauea Military Camp under the Department of Defense, he is now a proud retiree.
He is married to Kumu Hula Meleana Manuel and plays music part-time for Hālau Ke ‘Olu Makani O Mauna Loa in Kilauea, Volcano. Having lived in Volcano for 60 years and raised in Ka’ū, David continues to immerse himself in the cultural practices that support his hālau, Kumu, and the broader community of Hawai’i.
Ke 'Olu Makani Bylaws
Click below to view Ke ‘Olu Makani bylaws.