The People Who Power Hawai'i's Digital Future

Māpunawai is a Hawaiʻi-based nonprofit founded to ensure that every resident—especially Native Hawaiians, kūpuna, rural communities, and underserved populations—has the digital skills, tools, and confidence needed to thrive in an increasingly online world. Built in close partnership with public libraries, community centers, and local organizations, Māpunawai has grown into a statewide digital learning network delivering hands-on training, digital navigation, and technology support across every major island.

Since its founding, Māpunawai has served over 10,000 residents, focusing on culturally responsive, practical education that meets people where they are. Grounded in the belief that digital access is essential infrastructure, Māpunawai works to remove barriers to technology so individuals and communities can learn, adapt, and participate fully in modern life.

Board of Directors

Governance & Leadership

Ka'ala Souza, Board Chair and CEO
Ka'ala Souza
Board Chair and CEO
Andy Proper, Board Member
Andy Proper
Board Member
Ed Hope, Board Member
Ed Hope
Board Member
Dean Tomita, Board Member
Dean Tomita
Board Member

Core Team

Operational Backbone

Daniel, Lead Navigator Trainer
Daniel
Lead Navigator Trainer
Leesa, Project Coordinator
Leesa
Project Coordinator
Isaia, C.O.O.
Isaia
C.O.O.

Digital Navigators

We have digital navigators for every public library in the state of Hawaii on every Hawaiian island.

Justin, Digital Navigator
Nelson, Digital Navigator
Alec, Digital Navigator
Micah, Digital Navigator
Micah A, Digital Navigator
John, Digital Navigator
Arthur, Digital Navigator
Alani, Digital Navigator
Shan, Digital Navigator
Connor, Digital Navigator
Marietta, Digital Navigator

A statewide digital learning network — 11 Digital Navigators • 10,000+ residents supported