Survey launched to shape 2026 Ka Pewa Youth Summit in April on Kauaʻi

Kauaʻi youth leaders, in partnership with Kauaʻi County, invite high school students from throughout the county to make their voices heard by completing a newly launched survey.

Ka Pewa Youth Pulse Survey — a youth-driven effort designed to capture what matters most to young people today — will directly inform programming, breakout sessions and resource fair offerings for the 2026 Ka Pewa Youth Summit: Kupu Kelakela.

The summit is scheduled for April 28 at Kauaʻi War Memorial Convention Hall.

It is the second of its kind in the state, and is planned and executed in collaboration with student interns from Kauaʻi and Maui.

Kupu Kelakela — meaning “to rise in glory, to grow in greatness” — reflects the summit’s focus on empowering youth to step into leadership, strengthen their connection to place and help shape pathways forward for their communities.

“The Pulse Survey is a way for students to tell us, directly, what they’re thinking about for their future, whether it’s housing and careers, education, mental health or something else,” said youth organizers in an announcement about the survey. “This summit is being built with youth, not just for youth.”

Kauaʻi County Mayor Derek Kawakami emphasized the importance of youth participation.

“Our young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they are leaders right now,” said Kawakami in the announcement. “The Ka Pewa Youth Pulse Survey creates a meaningful opportunity for students across Kauaʻi to share their ideas, concerns and aspirations in a way that will directly shape this year’s summit.”

Ka Pewa Youth Summit will convene an estimated 200 high school students for a full day of panels, workshops and resource fair alongside community leaders, educators and decision-makers.

The event is curated with youth leads from the Kupu Kelakela Kauaʻi Internship Program and Maui Nui Hui Interns, ensuring the summit reflects the lived experiences and priorities of Hawaiʻi’s next generation.

Registration details and ongoing updates are being shared on Instagram at @kapewayouthsummit. Students are encouraged to follow the account and participate in the Pulse Survey to help shape the summit’s programming.

Community partners, businesses and organizations are also invited to support the summit through sponsorship opportunities.

Sponsorships remain available through Kauaʻi Economic Development Board and directly support youth programming, meals, materials and event logistics.

“When we listen to our youth and give them a seat at the table, we build stronger communities and more responsive leadership,” Kawakami said. “I encourage every high school student to take part in the survey and help us shape a summit that truly reflects the voices and vision of Kauaʻi’s next generation.”

Ka Pewa Youth Pulse Survey can be completed online.