We Went to Hawai'i!

“I loved connecting with people in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. It was really important as I came away, not only feeling closer to everyone, but also really valuing the community we have and inspired to keep building community.”

As part of our growing practice to center wellness and joy, Visual Communications Staff and Armed With a Camera Fellows took a renewal trip to Hawai'i.

During our convergence, we were blessed to work in a lo'i, a kalo (taro) patch at Kākoʻo ʻŌiwi. We collectively turned the soil over and created pathways for water. There were dozens of patches on the a'ina, each being cared for by a family and/or organization.

We talked about the importance of water and its sacredness. And if cared for properly, everything it touches flourishes. The water coming from the mountains towards the sea connects the patches. And the abundance of nutrients that is created with each lo'i is passed on to the others.  However, if a lo'i is not taken care of by its stewards, it affects the wellness of the system. There’s a responsibility of each family to show up for the whole community.

“The relaxed vibes and focus on well-being made it really supportive. Also, being in nature (the Lo‘i and beach) made it feel more freeing, perhaps because we were outdoors and getting dirty together!”

“Seeing VC's value's in motion made me realize how much I've needed a supportive community with like-minded storytellers. I learned that it's much more fun and feels really amazing to be supported... something I've not really felt as a filmmaker… It was life changing for me.”

Thank you to Ihilani and AF3IRM Hawai'i for your stewardship. And to our supporters, partners, and allies, thank you for showing up.