Nā ʻElele o Kahikina Congressional Fellows launched by Hawaiian Affairs, Hawaiian Native Corp.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs and Hawaiian Native Corporation are proud to announce the launch of the Nā ʻElele o Kahikina Congressional Fellows Program, a unique opportunity to prepare the next generation of Native Hawaiian leaders for influential roles in government, policy and advocacy.

Administered in part by E Ala E and the Nākūpuna Foundation, this competitive fellowship sponsors up to 6 college graduates to spend up to 1 full year in Washington, D.C.

Fellows gain first-hand experience in the heart of federal policymaking — working in congressional offices, observing committees and caucuses as well as engaging with key community and national partners.

“For generations, our aliʻi and kūpuna have carried Hawaiʻi’s voice to the highest levels of government with courage and dignity,” said Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board Chairman Kaialiʻi “Kai” Kahele in a press release announcing the fellowships. “Nā ʻElele o Kahikina continues that legacy by empowering our young ʻōiwi to serve as messengers of our lāhui — bringing the wisdom of our islands to national conversations that shape our collective future.”

The fellowship name reflects the bridge between past, present and future.

Kahiki honors ancestral homelands and voyaging toward new horizons. Kahikina signifies arrival, renewal and enlightenment.

As ʻelele — messengers and ambassadors — the fellows represent a lineage of kanaka ʻōiwi
leaders rooted in Hawaiʻi while growing and expanding their knowledge in Washington.

Emerging leaders now rise to ʻauamo kuleana (take on their role and responsibility) inspired by
those who went before them to help shape the decisions that will affect Hawaiʻi’s future.

Fellows will receive comprehensive financial support, including stipends to cover housing,
transportation and relocation expenses, ensuring accessibility for all qualified applicants.

Applications for the first quarter — which is January through March of 2026 — close Nov. 21,
with applications for the second, third and fourth quarters of 2026 continuing to be accepted on a rolling basis.