Meet Cultural Coach, Jonelle Kamai

Jonelle Kamai was born and raised on the island of Maui. After earning a Bachelors degree in Business Management from the University of Hawai’i at Manoa, Jonelle went on to earn her Masters Degree in Travel Industry Management. After graduating, she moved home to Maui to begin the next chapter of her life and was soon hired at The Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui.

In 2008, Jonelle was presented with the opportunity to join Ola Hawai’i, a program developed by The Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association (NaHHA). Applicants of the 18-month program were required to have worked in the hospitality industry and be of Native Hawaiian decent. Following a competitive application and interview process, Jonelle was selected as one of only 21 participants. 

The Fairmont Kea Lani supported Jonelle’s frequent travel to O’ahu for the Ola Hawai’i program where she was taught by three well-respected cultural practitioners, Peter Apo, Ramsay Taum, and Judge Tom Kaulukukui. Over the next year and a half, Jonelle learned mana’o (knowledge) through mo’olelo (stories), oli (chants), historical facts, personal stories and field studies including Hawaiian protocol.  She was challenged with being the youngest member of the group. By the completion of the program, she was not only knowledgeable in Hawaiian culture and the visitor industry, she was also certified to pass on her knowledge to others. 

Jonelle now teaches the Ola Hawai’i curriculum at The University of Hawai’i Maui College and to various business owners on Maui. As the Learning and Cultural Coach at The Fairmont Kea Lani, Jonelle trains hotel staff in Hawaiian history, language and culture. Most importantly, Jonelle offers authentic activities to guests of the hotel, including outrigger canoe paddling, language and history. This provides guests with an enriching and authentic experience they don’t get at every hotel.