Over two decades ago, a parcel of land in Niuliʻi belonging to Nani
Svendson’s family for generations was in a state of neglect, overrun
by invasive species and inhabited by mosquitoes. Nani had a vision
to restore the ancient loʻi and taro patches that had been tended by
her ancestors in this valley. As her vision expanded, she sought assistance
from the North Kohala Community Resource Center to establish
a charitable organization for Konea ʻO Kukui Garden, meaning Bringer
of Light, to facilitate charitable donations.
Men from the Local Therapeutic Living program, a community
initiative to combat substance abuse, sought permission to conduct
group meditation therapy in serene surroundings. Along
with their individual problems and addictions, these men also brought
trades and skills. After meditation therapy, these men, along with
Nani, started clearing the land. Konea ‘O Kukui Garden helped
these men reconnect with Mother Earth, their cultural traditions, their
spirituality, and ultimately, themselves. Through this collaborative
effort, the land was cleared and restored to the peaceful oasis of
tranquility it is today. Over the years, Konea ʻO Kukui
has served as a sanctuary for individuals in recovery, an educational
space for local students to learn about Native Hawaiian culture
and a site for expert-guided restoration projects. Recently, Nani has
partnered with the Men of Paʻa, a non-profit organization dedicated
to supporting individuals with a history of involvement in the criminal
justice system. Together, they address the underlying causes of
intergenerational trauma and provide resources for personal and
professional development. We say Mahalo for 23 years of tending to
this vision of healing our community and healing the ʻāina.
