Kāko‘o Connections

Ten students, with many wearing lei, smiling and posing for a group photo.

wo students enjoying the scent of blooming puakenikeni flowers.

"Before this, I didn't have any idea what colleges were like and which colleges to go to. Now that I did this program, I have a better understanding of my future. I also realized how different fields... can be connected with the environment." — Skye, Hawaiʻi Technology Academy

Three student participants in white shirts, getting ready for a presentation.

Two female students use large pliers to open coconuts.

Kākoʻo Connections linked Hawaiʻi youth to people and professional development resources to help them achieve their college and career goals in the islands’ unique natural resources field. Students in 11th/12th grade and recent high school graduates visited Hawaiʻi’s college and university campuses, connected with environmental organizations, learn and practiced job readiness skills, and mālama ʻāina.