Join Us for the 7th Annual Hawaiʻi DEI Conference: Cultivating and Growing Our Spheres of Belonging
Join Us for the 7th Annual Hawaiʻi DEI Conference: Cultivating and Growing Our Spheres of Belonging
Two days of inspiring workshops, transformative conversations, and immersive learning experiences designed to help you foster inclusivity and belonging in your school community.
We’re grateful to be partnering with the Hawaii Association of Independent Schools (HAIS) to bring this year’s conference to life! With HAIS’s support, we’re able to create an inspiring experience for all, centered on meaningful discussions and a smooth registration process. Special thanks to HAIS for their partnership, and to the Stevens World Peace Foundation for their continued sponsorship and unwavering commitment to fostering a more peaceful and inclusive world.
7th Annual
Hawaiʻi
DEI Conference
Who can attend: 9th-12th grade students and K-12th grade educators
Theme: Cultivating and Growing our Spheres of Belonging
February 15 & 16, 2025
Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi
Registration is managed by our partner, the Hawaii Association of Independent Schools (HAIS). Click below to complete your registration on their page!
Financial Assistance
Students who need support covering the registration fee are encouraged to apply. Funds are limited, so apply early and submit your application by November 11, 2024, to ensure consideration!
Travel Grants
Attendees traveling from outside Oʻahu may qualify for a travel grant to help with transportation and lodging costs. Please start your application early, as this process requires several documents and paperwork that may take time to gather. Applications must be submitted by November 11, 2024 to be considered. Don’t wait—apply as soon as possible to ensure you meet the deadline!
Why Attend the 7th Annual HI DEI Conference?
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Connection & Growth
Engage in powerful discussions and develop the skills needed to foster more inclusive environments. Guided by our theme of 'Cultivating and Growing Our Spheres of Belonging,' explore inner reflections and engage in collaborative exercises that strengthen your capacity to drive meaningful change within your school community.
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DEI Through a Hawai‘i-Based Lens
Explore DEI principles from a place-based perspective rooted in Hawai‘i’s unique cultural landscape. You’ll discover ways to honor and incorporate local knowledge, traditions, and values—nurturing a sense of belonging that resonates with the island’s rich heritage and diverse communities. This experience is framed by our guiding questions, encouraging deep reflection on inner and outer practices.
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Interactive Experiences
Participate in hands-on workshops and activities that bring the theme of belonging to life. Using our theme of ‘Cultivating and Growing Our Spheres of Belonging’ as a guide, you’ll engage in collaborative exercises and immersive activities that provide practical tools and strategies for fostering inclusivity within your school community.
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Expert Insights
Learn from our expert practitioner, community healer and nationally recognized leader in transformative justice, Kevin Kahakula'akea John Fong. As the founder of the Kahakulei Institute, Kevin specializes in helping school communities cultivate spaces of belonging through compassion, accountability, and cultural understanding. Drawing on his decades of experience and insights, Kevin will provide tools and perspectives aligned with our guiding theme, empowering attendees to build inclusive and resilient communities.
Meet Our Expert Practitioner and Keynote Speaker:
Kevin Kahakula’akea John Fong
Kevin John Fong
(he/they/o’ia)
Founder of the Kahakulei Institute | International Speaker & Facilitator in Transformative Justice
Kevin Kahakula’akea John Fong has spent his life dedicated to cultivating communities of belonging. As the founder of the Kahakulei Institute, Kevin and his team of bold leaders work tirelessly to help individuals and organizations weave compassion, understanding, and effective communication into their daily lives. His work is a beacon of hope for communities in crisis, addressing the deep social challenges of our time with care, wisdom, and a commitment to justice.
Inspired by the teachings of renowned activists and cultural leaders like Grace Lee Boggs, Aunty Puanani Burgess, and Dolores Huerta, Kevin’s approach is rooted in empathy and transformation. With a focus on creating spaces for truth, accountability, and reconciliation, Kevin’s work challenges the systems that divide us and helps to build the beloved communities we all long for.
At this year’s conference, Kevin will help us explore our theme of "Cultivating and Growing Our Spheres of Belonging." His ability to guide meaningful conversations around inclusion and justice will inspire us all—whether you're a student, educator, or community leader—on how we can foster connections that allow everyone to feel seen, heard, and valued.
With decades of experience as a cultural translator, facilitator, and internationally respected speaker, Kevin has helped leaders across the globe develop the skills to respond to the existential challenges of our world. He believes that through courage, honesty, and a shared commitment to healing, we can grow more compassionate, effective communities.
Please join us in welcoming Kevin John Fong as the keynote speaker for our 7th Annual Hawaii DEI Conference. Together, we will cultivate and grow spaces of belonging where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Plan Your Attendance
In partnership with the Hawaiʻi Association of Independent Schools (HAIS)
Cultivating Belonging: Follow Our Journey of Growth and Connection
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help! If you need more information about the
7th Annual Hawaiʻi DEI Conference, including registration, financial assistance, or travel grants, please get in touch.
You can also explore our Frequently Asked Questions for quick answers!