To show what authentic, real-world experiences look like for our haumāna and our kula, four middle school learners from Kamehameha Schools–Hawaiʻi carried their moʻolelo-infused physical education (PE) and English language arts (ELA) project to the 2025 SHAPE America National Conference. By presenting Hawaiian stories through an integrated PE and ELA curriculum, these students stepped onto a national stage not only as learners—but as knowledge holders rooted in ʻŌiwi identity.

Post-conference survey data revealed four key ways this experience felt “real” and transformative for the students:

1. ʻŌiwi Identity and Pride – Sharing their own Hawaiian stories in front of educators and peers reinforced each student’s sense of who they are. They described feeling proud that their ʻŌiwi knowledge mattered beyond the classroom.

2. Confidence as Knowledge Holders – Speaking publicly about their curriculum gave students measurable boosts in self-confidence. In survey comments, many noted improved communication and public-speaking skills.

3. Readiness and Belonging – Because they had practiced through classroom vlogs and smaller presentations, haumāna felt prepared rather than intimidated by a conference audience. Survey responses showed a clear sense of “I belong here” when they stood alongside professionals.

4. Inspiring Cultural Representation – Students wanted attendees to see Hawaiian ways of knowing, not just watch a performance. They reported feeling inspired that their presence could invite others into ʻŌiwi perspectives.

Together, these findings suggest that giving students a genuine platform—where culture, academics, and public voice intersect—creates an authentic capstone. For our kula, an experience such as SHAPE suggests learners see themselves as experts, practice real-world skills, and carry their cultural identity with confidence into broader communities.