By Melinda Lloyd, LT Senior Manager, Research & Evaluation
In 1909, Queen Liliʻuokalani wrote a deed of trust that would lay the groundwork for a lasting legacy, a commitment to the wellbeing of orphaned and destitute Hawaiian kamaliʻi (children). Today, more than a century later, Liliʻuokalani Trust (LT) honors the Queen’s mission by providing programs and services for Hawaiian kamaliʻi and ʻōpio (youth) across the pae ʻāina.
To support kamaliʻi, LT has created the Pua Liliʻu Wellbeing Framework, a holistic assessment that focuses on restoration of balance and harmony, while drawing inspiration from ʻike kūpuna (ancestral knowledge).
The Pua Liliʻu Wellbeing Framework uses a metaphor of a pua (flower). Just as a flower requires sunlight, water, and care to bloom, so do kamaliʻi. This imagery emphasizes the importance of providing aloha and mālama, for kamaliʻi to thrive in all aspects of life.
The Pua Liliʻu Wellbeing Framework was introduced in 2012 as Pua Lōkahi, inspired by Kamehameha Schools’ (KS) Lōkahi Wheel and their Wellbeing Pua Model. Over time, it evolved into a holistic model emphasizing five wellbeing domains:
- Naʻau: Cultural and Spiritual Connection
- Hale/ʻOhana: Family and Community Relationships
- Olakino: Physical and Emotional Health
- ʻImi ʻIke: Learning and Education
- Kumu Waiwai: Resources
These domains are not hierarchical. They work in harmony, emphasizing the belief that each domain must be nurtured for kamaliʻi to thrive.
On the individual level, the Pua Liliʻu can also be used for personal growth and learning. Each petal on the flower encourages striving for pono in every aspect of life — from emotional health to relationships. When struggles arise, hoʻopono provides a path to realign and heal. Meanwhile, mālama pono reminds us of our responsibility to care for ourselves and others with respect and mindfulness.
The Pua Liliʻu is used in various LT programs and services across the pae ʻāina including at: LT Ranch on Hawaiʻi Island, where kamaliʻi can heal through art, ʻāina, and animal-assisted therapy; Lydia House in downtown Honolulu, a safe place for ʻōpio who have experienced child welfare and juvenile justice systems; various kīpuka and sites that offer youth programs and services and; The Early Childhood Initiative for keiki ages 5 and younger.
The Pua Liliʻu recognizes and promotes an overall sense of physical, spiritual, and emotional health, whereby kamaliʻi and ʻōpio can appreciate their heritage, build resilience, and navigate life’s challenges. Queen Liliʻuokalani’s vision continues to thrive, as future generations are empowered to ʻonipaʻa, grow, heal, and flourish.
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