NaHHA is proud to share an article about our Lamakū Hoʻokipa – Beacons of Hospitality – who exemplify the value of mālama and are making meaningful impacts as contributing members of the Native Hawaiian community.
Through the Pākōlea small business cohort program, the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association (NaHHA) supports Native Hawaiian entrepreneurs as they strengthen their businesses, build connections, and prepare for opportunities to grow within and beyond Hawaiʻi’s visitor industry.
Named for the support given to a young seedling as it grows, Pākōlea reflects our hope that each entrepreneur leaves with stronger roots, greater confidence, and a stronger foundation for the journey ahead.
Based on the island of Lānaʻi, Hinu Rise offers original, Hawaiʻi-inspired designs across lifestyle and home goods, including textiles, home décor, art and other everyday products that bring a sense of Hawaiʻi into the places where people live and gather.
– Courtesy Photo
Hinu Rise began in 2020 when Kendra Medeiros returned to creating art while raising a young family. She was inspired to turn that creativity into a business that could share her love for Hawaiʻi, her culture, and her community.
As a Native Hawaiian artist, Kendra began selling her pieces as original fabric artworks celebrating her home through designs inspired by Hawaiian ways of knowing, native plants, sea life, and the special places she cherished so much. Her art is personal, often reflecting her own experiences and growth, while helping others to feel a sense of belonging and connection to Hawaiʻi.
The name Hinu Rise reflects the values behind the business. Hinu means “to shine,” and comes from a family name within her genealogy, Nahinu. Rise represents her belief in rising together through ʻohana, community, collaboration, and connection.
Whether discovering her original artwork, home goods, or other Hawaiʻi-inspired designs, connecting with Hinu Rise is an opportunity to support a Native Hawaiian artist and entrepreneur whose work is rooted in the values of Hawaiʻi expressing creativity and connection to place.
To learn more about Kendra and Hinu Rise, explore her website at hinurise.etsy.com and follow her on IG @hinurise. You may also reach out via email at [email protected].
For more information about the Pākōlea Cohort and other NaHHA programs please visit nahha.com or reach out to us at [email protected].
