ILI (Indigenous Learning Institute)
The fabric of Lāhaina weaves many different cultures, languages and practices that helps to not only diversify the community but enrich it. Our goal is to draw back the instinctual senses that people have to a place - to find identity and culture in the natural surroundings and in the relationships between peoples through shared experiences and understanding.
Filipino cultures possess many that align in parallel with the Native Hawaiian culture; and the values of Lāhaina readily translate from one culture to the other. To find resilience and strength for what is to come, we must look to where we come from and learn from the cultural languages, dances, music, food, arts, practices and stories to guide us. Filipinos throughout the diaspora offer evidence of past resilience, experiences that will help to stabilize us in the current uncertainties, and to set a foundation for future generations in finding pride, a sense of place and belonging to Lāhaina.
Our Indigenous Learning Initiative or ILI is our Philippine cultural education program. Ili in Ilokano-Filipino is the word for land-base. It connotes home, town and community of belonging. ILI will introduce curriculum and pedagogies that center on conservation, preservation, and good stewardship of land, natural resources and cultural foods that reduce dependence on western food sources. ILI leans into one’s indigenous roots, languages, stories, mythologies, and rites and rituals of Philippine indigeneity. We will foster a sense of self-worth and self-becoming as a process of decolonization.
Community Resources
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Monet Goode
FOUNDER
With a vision for building something meaningful, our founder brings a blend of big-picture thinking and hands-on experience.
They set the tone for everything we do. -
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Emmett Marsh
SALES MANAGER
Focused, approachable, and driven by results, our sales manager is all about building strong relationships. They help connect people to the right solutions—with clarity and care. -
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Eleanor Parks
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Creative and strategic in equal measure, our marketing director brings fresh ideas to every campaign. They turn insights into action and help our message resonate with the right audience. -
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Karl Holland
CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER
Friendly, attentive, and always ready to help, our customer service manager ensures every interaction is a positive one. They keep communication clear, timely, and human.
